pacific research

daylight studies | full scope architecture

tropical marine climate

at the pacific entrance of the panama canal, the punta culebra nature center is a landmark for marine education, conservation, and public outreach. our team developed a comprehensive design package to modernize and replace critical visitor infrastructure while preserving the site’s open-air, tropical character.

the project scope included a new guard booth, ticket center, and front entrance, along with the renovation of gazebos, plazas, restrooms, and interpretive exhibits such as the freshwater and coastal fish pools. design priorities focused on accessibility, climate resilience, and energy efficiency, ensuring the facilities can withstand the high salinity and humidity of the environment while providing a safe and comfortable visitor experience.

key interventions included structural upgrades to exhibit enclosures, shaded outdoor gathering spaces, permeable hardscaping, and integration of native landscaping to strengthen biodiversity.

the result is a renewed visitor experience that blends science, education, and architecture, offering durable and sustainable facilities that will continue serving public environmental education for decades to come.

project team

MEP - gabriel garzón díaz

structural - román & wong asoc.

soil studies - tecnilab

survey - skymap solutions