Eco-Museum and Orla Piratininga Park

Located in Niterói, just across the bay from Rio de Janeiro, the Eco-Museum and Orla Piratininga Park are part of the Municipality of Niterói’s Sustainable Ocean Region Program. Developed within the POP consortium, this project revitalises the 720,000m² Piratininga Lagoon through ecological restoration, community engagement, and innovative water management.

The project is Latin America’s largest phytoremediation initiative, combining water quality management and pollution treatment within a vibrant ecological park. Visitors can explore filtering gardens, social areas, hiking trails, bike paths, sports facilities, and wildlife observatories, fostering a deeper connection with the natural environment. At its heart lies the Eco-Museum, designed as a sheltered public forum that blends seamlessly into its surroundings. It is mainly constructed with cumaru wood, a durable South American hardwood known for its rich golden-brown hue and weather resistance. The roof defines the museum’s presence, extending as a cantilevered structure that modulates natural light while fostering a welcoming atmosphere. The museum offers flexible spaces for exhibitions, community gatherings, and educational activities. The ground floor includes a restaurant, meeting rooms, and kayak storage, while the mezzanine hosts interactive exhibitions, a lagoon observatory, and a central atrium with a tribune for presentations.

The surrounding Orla Piratininga Park supports lagoon conservation through innovative wetlands that use native plants to purify water and restore natural cycles. This landscape not only boosts biodiversity but also creates accessible spaces for visitors to experience unique ecosystems. The Eco-Museum and Orla Piratininga Park highlight the commitment to sustainability, inclusivity, and conscious design, showcasing architecture’s role in driving positive change in urban and natural environments alike.