Designed by Paris-based architect Didier Fiuza Faustino, this foundation building for arts and literacy institution Alumnos47 brings together a library, café, exhibition space, offices, and an artist residence in a capsule-based series of structures set in a tropical garden in the center of Mexico City. The project is currently in design development.

“David van der Leer advised us for almost five years while we were conceptualizing a new foundation focused on art and literacy in Mexico City. David took me to far flung places around the world and taught me about the value of design. He created a selection process that connected us to fantastic designers, but, more importantly, his creative insight helped us shape our programs. For instance, he suggested that we create a library bus connecting us to underserved communities around the city. I would work with him and his new agency again in a heartbeat.”–Moises Coscio, founder, Alumnos

• – Intuitive assessments of cultural and institutional context
• – Horizon scans with qualitative and quantitative research and context interpretation
• – Future scenarios and impact assessment

• – Vision and mission strategies
• – Content and program ideas from concept to implementation
• – Peer/competitive analysis
• – Leadership reference trips with organizational management, boards, and funders

– Space program development
– Design brief development
– Team sourcing and structuring (project managers, local architects, and engineers)
– Selection process creation and implementation (Invited commission from long listed firms)
– Workshops and training for Alumnos leadership on effective design decisions
– Vision and program refinement with designers and clients
– Design reviews and guidance
– Intermediary services with core consultants on design issues