A Walkable, People-First Alternative for Gran Central
Panama City’s urban growth historically prioritized a car-centric, high-rise model. Developer Conservatorio has successfully challenged this by restoring the dense, walkable fabric of Casco Viejo, and is now applying this people-first vision to Gran Central in Santa Ana, an area once the city’s vibrant, compact heart.
Gehl was hired to revise the master plan to make the public realm the central focus. Our design established a robust public space framework, ensuring all open areas were inviting “lingering spaces” with appropriate scale and active ground-floor programs. Gehl’s guidance, included Architecture and Sustainability Guidelines (aligned with EDGE certification) emphasized human-scale design, a vital internal pedestrian passage, and solutions for elevation changes.
Gehl’s work resulted in a mixed-use district that provides a sustainable, walkability-focused alternative to car dependency. The plan includes five residential buildings and a lifestyle hotel, all connected by a vibrant public realm with over 7,000 square meters of retail. Currently under construction, Gran Central is set to be a leading example of equitable and climate-conscious development.
