This dissertation studies how public services, education, and different housing typologies can empower an incoming migrant population and respond to the transition of becoming inhabitants of a city. Using Tijuana as a case study, the dissertation proposes a network of centrally located mixed-used centres with different housing typologies, services, leisure, and education. The purpose of this project is to question how architects can engage with different users and household configurations and their necessities during different phases of settlement, in order to allow a more effective transition into becoming residents in the city. In an attempt to respond to Tijuana’s increasing incoming population, this project focuses on the rise of alternative providers of public services and education. It proposes an Urban Integration Network, a third party provider of basic services, housing, and education funded through a public-private partnership.
