The Pacific coast of Panama is shaped by its southern coastline and the dry tropical forest to the north. Within this unique environment lies the Panamaes Ecological Reserve (REP), a mosaic of conservation forest, reforested land, and naturally regenerating ecosystems. REP is a shared land management initiative dedicated to reforesting and reactivating biological corridors across the remote Azuero Peninsula.
A key objective of REP is to activate and restore forested lands. A carefully designed trail network allows visitors to engage with the landscape in an immersive way, while simultaneously supporting the return of native flora and fauna. The long-term protection and restoration of the REP’s lands is essential to securing the ecological future of this threatened oceanfront region, as well as to sustaining the surrounding communities of Pedasí.
At IM/KM, we often refer to the REP as the “fourth house” on the property. Its development required a nuanced approach—one that combined deep analysis of existing site conditions with the vision and values of our clients. IM/KM led the creation of the REP by assembling and managing a multidisciplinary team of engineers, ecologists, and specialists; conducting detailed site surveys; and producing a comprehensive master plan for sustainable land stewardship.
This plan includes trail systems, spaces for recreation and environmental education, seed collection and native tree propagation, and a vertically integrated strategy for long-term sustainability—incorporating edible forests, organic agriculture, composting, and recycling.
Guided by the principle of “thinking beyond the property boundaries,” the REP strategic plan aims to leave the land in better condition than we found it. Its purpose is to generate meaningful environmental and social impact—not just within the REP, but throughout the wider region.
We are deeply proud of the initiatives launched through the REP, and we believe this model can serve as a valuable reference for architects, developers, and landowners seeking responsible ways to engage with land. Our experience has shown us that architects must act as stewards of the environment, embracing a responsibility to design not only for today, but for a sustainable and equitable future.
Be sure to follow the REP on Instagram here: Reserva Ecologica Panamaes on Instagram
The story behind Reserva Ecologica Panamaes is documented extensively on our blog.
Our conservation efforts can be reviewed in detail in our Sustainability Report, which you can download in English or Spanish by clicking on the icons below:
“Through our work at the REP, we’ve come to understand that architects can—and must—act as stewards of the land. We believe it is our responsibility to think beyond the boundaries of any single project and to approach design with a commitment to both environmental and social sustainability.”
Studio Tlalli is a high-end design studio that produces furniture and objects made from sustainable materials assembled by hand in our shop located within the reserve. The workshop supplies furniture for the residences.
Ongoing
Master Plan
IM-KM Architecture and Planning
Kristin Morales + Ivan Morales
Greg Ives, Rene Nava
Emilio Mariscal, Mi Ambiente, SINAPROC, Rolando Perez, Mario Urriola, Josanel Sugasti, ProEco Azuero, Alcalde Miguel Batista, Matt Brewer, Edwina von Gal, Kyle Meister, and many, many more – thank you
Saul Cedeno, Horacio Peralta, and Crew