Panama Center for Events & Arts

Convention Center Inspired by the Harpy Eagle

The Panama Center for Events and Performing Arts stands out for its fusion of technology and design. Situated on the Amador Causeway, the complex offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the city skyline. The campus-style layout includes a Banquet Hall and Restaurant, Performing Arts Theater, Exhibition Hall, and an outdoor amphitheater.

The design of the Banquet Hall transports guests into the middle and upper canopies of the rainforest, mirroring the natural habitat of the Harpy Eagle. The restaurant, perched high like the eagle in a kapok tree, overlooks the Great Hall, creating a unique dining experience.

The Performing Arts Theater serves as the heart of the project, both physically and culturally. Its glass facade and open lobby space blur the line between the interior and exterior, creating a seamless connection with the surrounding environment. With a seating capacity of 2,000, the theater hosts a variety of live performances, from concerts to Broadway productions.

The Exhibition Hall showcases the importance of technology and innovation through its sleek, modern design. With 8,000 square meters of open exhibition space and an additional 1,500 square meters of meeting rooms, this facility offers a versatile and dynamic environment for conferences and events.

The design team, led by RM Plus, LLC Planning and Design, utilized advanced 3-D software to bring their vision to life. SketchUp was used for initial design models, while Revit allowed for a deeper understanding of the architectural forms and spatial relationships. Navisworks was employed to resolve design conflicts and streamline the documentation process.

Construction on the Panama Center for Events and Performing Arts began in the summer of 2013 and is currently ongoing. The project has been a testament to the team's ability to overcome creative, technical, and research challenges. Their goal was to reinterpret traditional elements of Panama's history and culture in a contemporary way, representing a new identity for the country.

The Panama Center for Events and Performing Arts has received numerous accolades, including the prestigious A' Design Award in 2015. This Silver A' Design Award recognizes the center's outstanding expertise, innovation, and remarkable level of excellence. With its striking design and celebration of Panama's history and future, this convention center is set to become an iconic landmark in the region.