Designing for Impact: Academics Meets Architecture

At Design Develop, we believe in the power of design to uplift, inspire, and create real change. One of the most meaningful projects we’ve had the honor of being part of is the Limitless Horizons Ixil school in Chajul, Guatemala. Just last month Bob had the opportunity to be at the school for their Phase II ribbon cutting event, and it was inspiring to see just how far this school has come and how much impact it has had in the Chajul community and in the lives of its students.

Transforming Communities 

Limitless Horizons Ixil is more than a school—it’s a catalyst for transformation in the Guatemalan Highlands. As a middle and high school, it furthers a mission to expand opportunities for the indigenous youth, women, and families of Chajul. Their goal is to empower students with the academic and professional skills they need to create lasting change in their lives and communities.

Image Source: Limitless Horizons Ixil

Image Source: Limitless Horizons Ixil

This incredible vision was made possible by the tireless work of the Building Goodness Foundation (BGF), a nonprofit that brings together construction and design professionals to build and maintain critical infrastructure in underserved areas. We've been fortunate to partner with BGF on both Phase I and Phase II of this inspiring project—providing pro bono architectural services, conducting on-site visits, and working hand-in-hand with the local community and builders every step of the way.

Designing with Purpose

Designing for this project brought a unique set of challenges—and opportunities. Chajul is nestled in the mountainous terrain of the Guatemalan Highlands, which meant topography was a major consideration from day one. Rather than fight the slope, we embraced it, allowing the buildings to cascade down the hillside. This not only made construction more feasible but also created dynamic views and integrated the school naturally into its surroundings.

Image Source: Limitless Horizons Ixil

Working in a remote, economically challenged region—where most families live on less than $2 a day—demanded cost-effective, locally appropriate design solutions. Beyond budget and logistics, the design had to respond to cultural, educational, and infrastructural needs in a place with limited historical access to education. We designed with flexibility, durability, and community at the core.

Planning for the Future

From the beginning, this was a project meant to grow. That’s why we took a phased approach, with Phase I focused on the middle school and Phase II adding high school facilities. This allowed the school to scale sustainably and respond to the growing demand for education in the region.

Phase I - Completed Summer 2022

We also integrated sustainable systems—like solar energy and rainwater collection—to support long-term resilience and reduce the school’s dependence on external resources. A simple, open structural layout provides flexibility, with multipurpose rooms and outdoor spaces that can evolve alongside the community’s needs.

The project supports community resilience, particularly during emergencies. The buildings, constructed to U.S. standards with reinforced steel and concrete, are designed for earthquake resistance. Additional sustainability features, such as a battery backup system, water capture, on-site electrical generation, and a secure perimeter, ensure the campus can serve as a reliable community resource in times of crisis.

Phase II - Completed Spring 2025

Design Highlights:

• Pitched roofs that serve both functional and aesthetic purposes—shedding rainwater while creating a rhythmic, dynamic silhouette

• Covered walkways that offer protection from the elements and double as social spaces where students eat lunch, hold outdoor classes, or gather for meetings

• Gardens and outdoor seating areas that create space for quiet reflection, connection to nature, and informal learning

• A multipurpose covered court that anchors the campus—a shaded, flexible space used for sports, school events, and community ceremonies, such as the ribbon cutting

• Cultural murals, carved wooden doors, and locally made tapestries that celebrate indigenous identity and foster a deep sense of belonging and pride among students

These details are more than decorative—they’re expressions of culture, identity, and community ownership. Everything about this school was designed not just for the students, but with them and their families in mind.

Incorporating Culture

One of our favorite aspects of the project was designing a space that celebrates the vibrant spirit of Chajul. The architecture is colorful and uplifting—what the community affectionately calls un espacio alegre (a joyful space). We took a thoughtful approach to material selection and resource management, with a strong emphasis on using regionally familiar materials and celebrating the local craftsmanship. 

Up to 50 local tradesmen were employed during construction, using their expertise in traditional methods, which strengthened the community and helped preserve their livelihoods. This approach simultaneously fostered a sense of ownership and pride in the community that resonates culturally and in the school’s social context. 

A Lasting Partnership

Working on this project has been a true privilege. It challenged us to think creatively, to listen closely, and to design with empathy and intention. We’re proud to have played a part in building a place where young women can dream big, learn deeply, and lead boldly.

We want to thank our friends at Limitless Horizons Ixil and Building Goodness Foundation for including us in the Phase II Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, as well as the entire journey of this project. We’re looking forward to making even more impact alongside both organizations in the future!