For decades, Panama’s urban development has been shaped by the drive, initiative, and entrepreneurial spirit of its people. That dynamism allowed the city to grow rapidly and establish itself as a regional hub. However, that same accelerated pace—combined with fragmented planning—has also left clear challenges: congested mobility, a shortage of green spaces, and a disconnect between the places where we live, work, and interact.

The city Panama needs for the future cannot be built through individual projects that function like islands. True urban progress requires an integrated vision of the territory—one in which each development contributes to a broader, coherent, and sustainable system.

Cities that are now global benchmarks (from Medellín to Singapore) understood a key principle: urban success is not measured by the height of buildings or the number of square meters constructed, but by the quality of life they offer people. Walkable streets, efficient transportation, active public spaces, and environments that foster social interaction are today the real indicators of a successful city.

Panama is entering a new stage of urban maturity. Citizens are demanding a more human city: safer streets, better mobility, access to green areas, and environments that promote a dignified way of living. This demand opens the door to a new development model: mixed-use districts.

A well-planned district is one where housing, work, commerce, leisure, and nature converge within the same territory. It is a space that shortens distances, encourages walkability, strengthens social fabric, and improves people’s relationship with their surroundings. In other words, a district does more than organize space—it builds community.

That is why, at Locations, we believe the role of real estate development goes far beyond constructing buildings. Our projects are conceived through a logic of urban integration, where every decision—from public space design to the mix of uses—aims to contribute to the city and improve the lives of those who inhabit it. We are committed to developments that integrate with their surroundings, create connection, and promote a way of living that is closer, more efficient, and more human.

Thinking of the city as a network of districts means connecting neighborhoods, activities, opportunities, and lifestyles. It means designing environments where walking or using public transportation is a real option; where green spaces are not a luxury but part of everyday life; and where people feel that the city truly belongs to them.

The great challenge lies in shifting away from the logic of “building for the sake of building” and replacing it with a long-term vision—one in which every project is understood as a piece of a larger urban system. This transformation requires leadership, public–private collaboration, and a new way of understanding real estate development: not only as an investment, but as a tool for social well-being.

At Locations, we take on this challenge with responsibility and conviction. We believe that true urban progress is not about growing more, but about growing better. Today, Panama has the opportunity to take that step, and the private sector plays a key role in driving an urban evolution that finally puts people at the center of development.

By: Ivan Vallarino Jr.