A 46-acre sustainable village located in central Panama, Kalu Yala has been developed according to principles of environmental conservation and preservation. Designed as an organic network of blocks and streets, the town is sited on a gentle slope fronted by the Pacora River in a dense tropical forest. An agricultural field devoted to organic farming is located at the lower edge.

Framing the entrance to the village at the site’s lowest point, a stone archway opens to the village center which is composed of three-story arcaded buildings that house retail on the ground floor. Housing types range from townhouses and cottages to compounds that can be subdivided as needed for growing families. Large single-family towers offering views over the village are located at the site’s highest elevations. All buildings are designed to ensure ample cross ventilation so that the Panamanian breezes minimize reliance on air conditioning.

In collaboration with George Moreno & Partners