From Uruguay to the World: Gómez Platero and Its Contribution to Asunción’s Skyline
- Carlos E. Gimenez
- Feb 7
- 4 min read
Gómez Platero Arquitectura y Urbanismo was founded in 2002 under the leadership of its current CEO, Martín Gomez Platero, during a challenging economic crisis that deeply affected the construction industry in Uruguay. From an early age, Martín cultivated a passion for architecture, influenced by his father, Guillermo, who was also an architect. This family legacy instilled the values that continue to guide the firm today. With a strong academic background and a postgraduate degree in administration from the University of Berkeley, Martín developed a strategy focused on differentiation and quality, positioning the firm to offer world-class architectural services from Uruguay to the international stage.
Since its inception, Gómez Platero has continuously evolved, transitioning from a local studio to an internationally recognized architectural firm with a presence in 13 countries and 42 cities. This transformation has been driven by teamwork, optimizing the management of complex projects through a collaborative approach. The firm’s “glocal” philosophy combines a global vision with a local approach, allowing it to integrate cutting-edge design, technology, and materials while respecting the unique characteristics of each environment. This balance has positioned Gómez Platero as a leader in exporting architectural services.
The firm’s architectural philosophy is centered on creating projects that enhance collective well-being, striving for a balance between the interests of developers, users, and the city. This commitment includes respecting the physical, cultural, and social environment, repurposing existing buildings, and designing public spaces that foster social integration and a connection with nature. Gómez Platero prioritizes human-centered design, promoting inclusion and a sense of community in every project.
The firm’s most iconic projects are distinguished by their harmonious integration with the natural and urban environment, as well as user-centered innovation. Notable examples include Nuevocentro, a mixed-use development in Montevideo, and Tres Cruces, the first transport terminal with a shopping mall in Latin America. In the education sector, Moorlands School stands out for its innovative Mass Timber design, a sustainable material that is being used for the first time in Uruguayan educational architecture.
Sustainability is a core pillar of Gómez Platero, extending beyond construction to encompass a holistic commitment to the environment, biodiversity, and people. The firm is dedicated to restoring a human scale to cities, creating high-quality public spaces, and fostering biodiversity as essential elements in building resilient and sustainable communities. The +Colonia project, for instance, blends residential, commercial, and cultural spaces while honoring Colonia del Sacramento’s colonial architectural heritage, integrating contemporary and sustainable solutions.
The relationship between aesthetics and functionality is another key principle for Gómez Platero, ensuring that each project is both visually striking and functionally efficient. This balance is integrated from the conceptual stage, guaranteeing that design decisionsaddress both practical and emotional needs. The firm has consistently demonstrated its ability to adapt and lead in a constantly evolving industry, reaffirming its commitment to conscious and sustainable design.
Each Gómez Platero project represents a unique challenge and an opportunity for learning. The Guayaquil Terminal in Ecuador was a milestone that positioned the firm on the international stage, showcasing Uruguayan talent at the highest global standards. Another outstanding example is the World Memorial to the Pandemic, a space dedicated to honoring life and nature, which has received international recognition, including awards from the International Architecture Awards.
In the Latin American context, Gómez Platero has played a key role in Paraguay’s urban transformation, standing out for its innovative approach and commitment to sustainable development. The firm established its presence in Paraguay through a collaboration with CodasVuyk, a local real estate developer with over 40 years of experience in the market. This partnership led to a series of preliminary projects along Aviadores del Chaco Avenue, including iconic developments such as Ciudad Jardín, the Hilton Hotel, and Link Aviadores.
In 2018, Torre Miranda became a reality—a residential building strategically located in one of Asunción’s fastest-growing real estate zones. This project marked a significant milestone for the firm as its first completed development in Paraguay. In addition to Torre Miranda, Gómez Platero designed a master plan for an area near the Paraguay River, which later gave rise to Riverside, a major development currently under construction.
Other notable projects include Salaskin, a residential development that maximizes the value of its immediate surroundings, distinguished by a high-quality landscape setting. The firm is also leading early-stage initiatives in the World Trade Center area and other strategic locations across Asunción, reinforcing its commitment to urban revitalization.
Among its projects, Riverside stands out as one of the firm’s most iconic developments in Paraguay. This urban master plan, located along the Paraguay River, integrates green spaces, pedestrian walkways, and central lagoons, creating a harmonious balance between nature and urban infrastructure. It serves as a catalyst for future developments in the region, especially with the inauguration of the Héroes del Chaco Bridge in March 2024, which significantly enhances connectivity between Asunción and the Western Region.
Paraguay’s economic landscape, strengthened by its recent investment-grade credit rating, has increased its appeal to international funds, facilitating access to financing for large-scale projects. In this evolving context, Gómez Platero continues to solidify its role as a key player in the transformation of Paraguay’s urban and architectural landscape.
The evolution of architecture in Paraguay also reflects a growing interest in mixed-use projects, which stimulate the local economy and promote social inclusion. With its international expertise and “glocal” vision, Gómez Platero has successfully integrated global trendswith the specific needs of the Paraguayan market, establishing itself as a leading reference in the region.
With over two decades of experience, the firm has become a benchmark for architectural quality and sustainable urbanism in Paraguay and beyond. From its beginnings in Uruguay to its international expansion, Gómez Platero has combined innovation, cultural sensitivity, and technical excellence to create projects that transform communities and enhance quality of life. In Paraguay, its landmark developments, such as Torre Miranda and Riverside, serve as prime examples of the positive impact architecture can have on urban growth. Guided by a human-centered and environmentally conscious philosophy, the firm continues to pave the way for a more integrated and sustainable future.
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