Last year, a park in the peripheral district of Las Granjas was renovated by Mexico City–based firm RZERO. The renewed space, known as El Aguaje, now features a central kiosk for neighbourhood assemblies, shaded walkways lined with trees, multi-purpose sports courts, and a communal laundry and play area near a seasonal stream. During rainy months, children splash in the recycled-water pool while their mothers chat nearby. Year-round, the park is teeming with life: Teenagers play ball at dusk, elders rest on benches beneath the trees, and families stroll along the walkways. 

It’s an elegant and understated intervention — one of five that RZERO completed in Tuxtla Gutiérrez, including a market, a sports centre, a plaza, and a second...