a foundation for justice
The Association for a More Just Society (ASJ) is involved in justice work at the national level. Specifically, in Honduras, the organization deals with corruption inside of healthcare, government, police, cartels, and the justice system. Operating out of multiple buildings, the dynamic and growing organization needed a place where complex, secure, and deeply human work could thrive.
In response, AMDG collaborated with ASJ, local architect Sergio Ortega, and Catalyst Partners to envision a building that balances access and convening with discretion and privacy, public transparency and welcome with safety and protected spaces. Comprised of three floors, the new facility is built into a steep urban slope and is strategically oriented with two separate entries: a public-facing entrance and a discreet private entry complete with secure parking hidden underground. Terraces and courtyards offer gathering spaces with sweeping views, while interior zones are designed to support a fluid mix of legal counsel, press events, policy work, and confidential meetings.
To better understand ASJ and their mission, AMDG facilitated a process that included meetings with board members, design charettes and visioning sessions, along with focus groups of ASJ team members. What emerged through this process of deep and intentional listening was a detailed program of needs meshed with a vision statement articulating how the new building would enable ASJ to more powerfully deliver on its mission. From this work, the team collaboratively developed the design through both in-person and remote sessions.
The final solution embodies the organization’s mission and values and provides a flexible environment for dynamic growth. The design also takes full advantage of the sloping site, beautiful views, and climate to provide a high level of joy and practical value. The workspace design delivered agility and is both resilient and responsive to highly collaborative and dynamic teaming. Building zones are clearly delineated: secure areas for sensitive operations, open workspaces to foster team connection, and flexible rooms ready to accommodate future needs. Environmental context was central, too. With input from local partners, the building integrates passive cooling, sun control, and Honduran building techniques, grounding the structure in its place.
ASJ’s new headquarters provides the cohesion and security that is essential to their work—rooting out corruption, reforming systems, and advocating for change in Honduras—changing the trajectory of how the growing organization can deliver their mission.
