This article explores the architecture of the Red de Innovacion y Aprendizaje (RIA), or Learning and Innovation Network, which is a group of education centres that provide access to computers, the Internet and quality education to low-income communities in Mexico. The RIA began in May 2009 when ten pilot centres were opened in four municipalities in the State of Mexico. Just over a year later, nearly 60 000 users had registered at the centres. Due to its success as an alternative education model, the RIA will expand its network with 32 new centres by the end of 2010. The project aims to reach some 230 000 users by 2012. Designed by Ludens, a Mexico City-based architecture firm, the centres provide an environment conducive to learning through spaces that are sustainable, comfortable, secure and strategically located. Low-impact materials and a modular, minimal design fashion the spaces. Architectural elements respond to the immediate surroundings to create a comfortable and safe learning environment. In order to maximize the impact of the RIA, the sites are chosen through in-depth urban studies. These have the effect of applying "urban acupuncture" to the areas where education is most needed. (Contains 1 footnote.)