Las Catalinas is a picturesque town located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Homes are clustered around plazas, terraces, and narrow passages that embrace the breathtaking natural surroundings. It’s mixed-use, with shops, restaurants, parks, and trails steps from each home. Every twist and turn is meant to be explored on foot. In 2022, Cardo participated in a design competition for a new town hall on the central square. The design reflects the architecture of the region and the new community, embracing deep eaves, white stucco walls to contrast brilliant sunsets, and passive design elements intended to naturally cool the space. An iconic tower twists towards the sky, providing an icon for the residents, and appearing different from every angle and at the end of every passage. Windcatchers rise above Plaza Pienza, harnessing the Papagayo Winds and naturally pulling cool air into the building. These elements, prominent on the skyline of the town, are clad in rich, colorful tiles, a material not often found in Las Catalinas, and reserved for only important civic buildings. The Civic Hall was designed as an iconic centerpiece for a timeless place.