Community Development Center Los Chocolates was conceived as part of a program to reactivate a rundown area in Carolina, one of the most traditional neighborhoods of downtown Cuernavaca. The architects--Mauricio Rocha and Gabriela Carrillo of the firm TALLER--began with a community consultation to explore what form and function the building should take. These sessions revealed that the community wanted a multipurpose venue containing cultural and recreational facilities.

TALLER developed a plan for a flexible, environmentally sustainable structure; despite a relatively small physical footprint, the building incorporates spaces for theater, music, painting, art exhibitions, sports activities and more. TALLER: Community Development Center Los Chocolates analyzes the design and realization of the building, from consultations through to construction, and concludes with a look at how the completed building and gardens are being used by the local community.