July 02, 2009
Since its construction in 1996, The Information Center of El Yunque Tropical Forest has been known as an excellent example of a Puerto Rican design that showcases a fresh space that embraces its natural surroundings. Designed by local architecture firm, Sierra, Cardona & Ferrer, this building features elements that resemble its location in the only Tropical Rainforest in the US National Parks. According to the architects, the structure’s ceiling resembles the forest canopy, and the incorporation of running water in the perimeter of the main exhibit building reminds the visitors of the constant rainfall in the forest. The exhibit section and cafeteria can close or open depending on the function and their pivoting doors make this flexible space easy to integrate to its lush surroundings. Although made mostly of metal (not a very fresh material), the high ceiling structure of the main pavilion that encases a semi-open space makes this rather tectonic building feel very fresh and sensible to its tropical surroundings.
views of roof structure
view of water corridor
shading systems
No comments:
Post a Comment