Mexico's First Cross-Laminated Timber Pavilion Supports Axolotl Conservation and Wetland Restoration

Riparia MX has completed the Ajolotario, a wildlife pavilion and conservation center in Sierra Morelos Park, Mexico. The project serves as a habitat recovery initiative for six endangered axolotl species and other local wildlife. It represents Mexico's inaugural building constructed with cross-laminated timber (CLT), utilizing this renewable material to reduce carbon emissions. The design incorporates a wastewater treatment system that processes 430 cubic meters daily from nearby communities, helping restore the park's degraded lake ecosystem. The pavilion features both above-water and submerged spaces for ecological observation and houses approximately 20,000 native plants across 150 species. Construction involved around 400 workers over eight months, incorporating recycled materials throughout the site.