Jasper Architects has unveiled ambitious plans for the Palmanova Center, a massive 200,000 square-meter mixed-use development in Asunción, Paraguay, with construction scheduled to begin this October. The complex will rise along Avenida Primer Presidente and represents a groundbreaking urban model for high-density living in the Paraguayan capital.
The innovative design integrates residential, commercial, and office spaces into a dense vertical composition that emerges from a public, landscaped valley. Four sculptural towers rise above a five-story public base, creating a dynamic skyline feature that will stand among the city's tallest structures at 180 meters (590 feet) in height.
The architectural concept draws inspiration from the region's natural landscape, particularly the cañadas – natural ravines that shape local ecosystems. The five-story plinth is intersected by a carefully planned sequence of terraces, shaded walkways, and gardens that mirror these natural formations. This design strategy creates a seamless connection between the built environment and Asunción's natural setting.
Central to the project's philosophy is fostering community connections and enhancing the pedestrian experience. A dedicated pedestrian route threads through the center of the site, linking various amenities including retail shops, cafés, a supermarket, and wellness facilities. Elevated bridges span across planted areas, creating sophisticated crossings between buildings while maintaining clear sightlines at ground level.
The tower configuration includes two office buildings rising 36 and 33 floors respectively, featuring adaptable floor plates designed to accommodate various tenant requirements. The remaining two towers, reaching 40 and 37 floors, will house more than 200 residential units ranging from compact one-bedroom apartments to luxurious penthouses. Rooftop spaces are conceived as shared leisure areas, complete with botanical gardens, infinity pools, and panoramic viewing platforms.
Environmental performance and sustainability are key priorities in the design strategy. The offset tower forms are strategically oriented to capture optimal daylight and prevailing breezes while preserving unobstructed views of Asunción across the entire site. This careful positioning allows natural light to penetrate into the complex's lower levels, including the pedestrian valley areas.
The building envelopes incorporate advanced materials and technologies, combining high-performance double glazing with aluminum composite panels capable of reflecting 40 percent of solar radiation. Shaded balconies and extensive green terraces form integral components of a comprehensive passive design strategy, enhancing both thermal comfort and local biodiversity.
The development is targeting LEED certification through the incorporation of sustainable systems including water recycling, advanced stormwater management, and renewable energy generation. Landscaped areas will extend continuously from street level to the uppermost terraces, making a significant contribution to Asunción's urban greenery and environmental quality. The project represents a new standard for sustainable urban development in Paraguay's rapidly growing capital city.
