Breaking barriers
Barrio 31 had long been perceived as outside the urban limits of Buenos Aires — both geographically and in the minds of the people. Without formal connections to the wider city, the Barrio’s residents are physically disadvantaged in accessing urban services and provisions. Leading a visionary project to integrate Villa 31, the Government of Buenos Aires collaborated with Gehl to put people at the center of the planning and design.
Gehl conducted a Public Space Public Life survey throughout seven neighborhoods in Buenos Aires, providing a comparison of Barrio 31 with the rest of the city. The analysis from this survey led Gehl to develop a series of strategies and proposals for the SECISyU to foster safe and inclusive public spaces. The team outlined strategies that recognize the importance of different scales, functions, and activities in creating spaces for people. Lastly, with help from the city, Gehl developed the design of four ‘hinge’ public spaces and set the parameters for an international competition to transform the highway into a linear park.
For decades, residents have demanded change. Today, many welcome the improvements that the government is making in the neighborhood. Throughout the process, Gehl’s people-centered approach aimed to elevate the values and strengths of the community, ensuring they are retained in the redeveloped neighborhood and apply their lessons to other development projects.
