panama’s biomuseo is set to open its doors to the public, almost ten years after construction began. designed by frank gehry, the cultural institution explores the isthmus and the diverse range of species which inhabit the region. the development is conceived as a catalytic structure which will serve as a beacon for the country and its population. the 4,000 square meter scheme contains eight permanent exhibition galleries designed in consultation with scientists at the nearby smithsonian tropical research institute. the $60 milllion USD project also houses temporary gallery space, a public atrium, a museum shop and a café, while various outdoor exhibits can be displayed within a landscaped botanical garden.
the development is conceived as a landmark structure serving as a beacon for the country
photo © victoria murillo / istmophoto.com (also main image) | all images courtesy of biomuseo
located at the entrance to the panama canal, the biomuseo offers views across the water towards panama city and the old town. gehry’s fragmented and asymmetrical design comprises undulating roof panels, a collage of form and color which reflect the area’s tropical environment. appealing to a broad range of visitors, the scheme combines art with science and will host cultural events throughout the year, such as music concerts and private functions. for previous designboom’s previous coverage of frank gehry’s ‘biomuseo’, see here.
the cultural institution explores the isthmus and the diverse range of species which inhabit the region
photo © victoria murillo / istmophoto.com
gehry’s fragmented and asymmetrical design features an undulating canopy
photo © victoria murillo / istmophoto.com
the color of the roof panels reflect the region’s tropical environment
photo © victoria murillo / istmophoto.com
the scheme offers views across the water towards panama city
photo © victoria murillo / istmophoto.com
photo © victoria murillo / istmophoto.com
stairway approach to the museum
photo © victoria murillo / istmophoto.com
the undulating and folded roof panels
photo © victoria murillo / istmophoto.com
skylight bringing natural light into the exhibition space
photo © victoria murillo / istmophoto.com
ARCHITECTURE IN PANAMA (8)
Dec 29, 2019
Apr 24, 2019
Apr 09, 2018
May 18, 2017
Apr 11, 2017FRANK GEHRY (84)
Jun 30, 2021
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Mar 12, 2021MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES (382)
Jul 28, 2021
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Jul 20, 2021PRODUCT LIBRARY
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cole Feb 25, 2014 irene Feb 21, 2014 Devi Feb 18, 2014 Mark Feb 18, 2014
more commentsmany of these comments are hilarious and many are right on the money like those who remembered that the most controversial design often becomes the most iconic and beloved. look how beautifully it suits its landscape. certainly this building is as significant to Panama as the Sydney Opera House signifies Australia. i live in Panama and i love it.
wow….beautiful…I love Gehry…it is a wonderful building…!!!
I love it – the colors -the design. Fits in with Panama- exactly!!!!
…wow! the comments above obviously emanate from individuals unaccustomed to architecture that can be playful and unique while serving the purpose of the structure. wow, what a quaint group of observers.