El Portal del Yunque Visitor’s Center: Rebuilding Resilience Through Sustainable Design

Devastated by Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017, the El Portal del Yunque Visitor’s Center emerged from its transformation as a model for harmonious coexistence between people and nature. The project’s ambitious goal was to restore the Visitor’s Center, regenerate the surrounding forest, and create an immersive experience celebrating the relationship between humanity and the natural world.

The Interlink / MARVEL design-build team, in collaboration with PIERI Architects, employed a multi-disciplinary approach anchored by a USDA Forest Service workshop. This early collaboration established a foundation for ecological and energy-conscious strategies, culminating in the achievement of LEED v4 Gold Certification.

The reimagined Visitor’s Center prioritizes environmental stewardship and visitor engagement. Key sustainable features include EISA 438-compliant rainwater management, endemic flora restoration, and an interpretive trail that reconnects visitors to El Yunque’s unique ecosystem. Advanced design elements, such as IESNA Zone 0 exterior lighting, prevent the negative effects of light pollution on endemic nocturnal fauna, while a hybrid natural-mechanical ventilation system enhances thermal comfort for visitors and staff.

A meticulous analysis of the original structure allowed the team to reuse 80% of the building, significantly reducing the carbon footprint of the renovation. By integrating innovative technologies and sustainable principles, the Visitor’s Center also serves as an educational tool, inspiring future generations to value and protect the environment.

In recognition of its outstanding design and environmental impact, the project received the 2023 American Institute of Architects Honor Award for Sustainable Work.

Key Sustainability Features

Organized according to LEED for New Construction guidelines:

- Sustainable Sites:

- Habitat restoration with endemic flora and an interpretive trail.

- EISA 438-compliant rainwater management for watershed protection.

- Heat island mitigation through landscape and material strategies.

- Light Pollution Reduction:

- IESNA Zone 0 exterior lighting to meet Dark Sky standards and prevent negative effects on nocturnal animals.

- Water Efficiency:

- Net-zero potable water strategies through rainwater harvesting.

- Energy & Atmosphere:

- 42% reduction in energy consumption with PV-ready infrastructure.

- Sub-metered energy and water systems for enhanced monitoring.

- Comprehensive building systems commissioning.

- Materials & Resources:

- 80% reuse of the existing building structure.

- 80% diversion of construction waste.

- Indoor Environmental Quality:

- Hybrid natural-mechanical ventilation for improved thermal comfort.

- Use of low-emitting materials and robust IAQ management during construction.

- Innovation in Design:

- Facility serves as an interpretive educational tool, showcasing sustainable practices.

Project Data

- Owner: US Department of Agriculture

- End User: US Forest Service

- Architect: MARVEL Architects

- Builders: Interlink Group, S.C.

- PIERI Architects Role: LEED Guidance and Administration, Energy Modeling, Commissioning

- Commissioning Agent: RAP Engineering

- Delivery Method: Contractor-Led Design-Build

- Construction Period: 24 Months

- Substantial Completion: December 2022