By Rick Gonzalez, AIA (adapted for WPDNA)
I am honored to provide this article to the DNA about our great Downtown area through the eyes of a local architect and business owner. In 1988, I co-founded REG Architects with my father Ricardo Sr. here in the downtown area. After three decades of success, we are busier than ever with partners by my side Vice President Manuel Ayala, AIA, and our Director of Business Development, my son, Ricardo III.
From Empty Streets to Downtown 3.0
Downtown West Palm Beach didn’t become what it is today overnight. Its transformation is the result of decades of vision, investment, and persistence—and few have witnessed that evolution as closely as local architect and business owner Rick Gonzalez.
After more than 40 years working in the downtown core, Gonzalez offers a firsthand perspective on how far the city has come—and where it still has room to grow.
A Very Different Downtown
In the mid-1980s, Downtown West Palm Beach looked nothing like it does today.
The area was largely empty, with minimal residential presence and limited activity beyond standard business hours. Office workers, government employees, and court-related traffic kept things moving during the day—but after hours, the streets quieted quickly.
Retailers and restaurants struggled in what was essentially a “9-to-5” downtown.
The First Renaissance: A Return to Identity
The 1990s marked a turning point.
Historic buildings—especially along Clematis Street—were restored, bringing character and identity back to the city. Public investments in streetscapes signaled something important: the city was serious about revitalization.
This era also introduced family-friendly attractions like the Clematis Street splash park, helping reestablish downtown as a destination—not just a workplace.
A new master plan in 1994 helped guide this momentum, laying the groundwork for long-term growth.
The Shift to Residential Living
The early 2000s brought a critical change: people started living downtown again.
Mixed-use residential buildings began to rise, typically mid-rise in scale, and included thoughtful elements like plazas and pedestrian-friendly spaces. These weren’t just buildings—they were catalysts.
For the first time in decades, downtown had a consistent, around-the-clock population.
That shift supported:
- New restaurants and retail
- Increased foot traffic
- A stronger sense of community
At the same time, public spaces like the linear park along Flagler Drive were enhanced, further improving quality of life.
Downtown 3.0: Bigger, Faster, More Complex
Today, West Palm Beach is in what Gonzalez calls “Downtown 3.0.”
Development has scaled up dramatically. Where buildings once stood 5–8 stories tall, new projects now reach 25–30 stories and beyond.
This rapid growth brings both opportunity and challenge.
Some projects successfully balance scale, design, and pedestrian experience—like the 360 Rosemary office building, which integrates:
- Ground-floor activation
- Public art and landscaping
- Thoughtful transitions from street level to tower
Others, however, raise concerns about maintaining architectural integrity—especially when it comes to historic preservation.
A More Vibrant, Active Downtown
There’s no question: downtown is more alive than ever.
Between thriving districts, outdoor events, and a growing residential base, the city has dramatically reduced vacant land and underutilized spaces.
Signature events like:
- Clematis by Night
- The GreenMarket
Continue to draw both locals and visitors, reinforcing downtown as a cultural and economic hub.
What Still Needs Work
Despite its progress, several key opportunities remain.
1. Transportation That Works
Past trolley systems proved that reliable public transit can succeed downtown. Today’s options, while well-intentioned, lack consistency.
A predictable, well-connected system could:
- Reduce congestion
- Improve accessibility
- Strengthen connections across neighborhoods
2. Walkability That Works Year-Round
Downtown’s design—aligned with ocean breezes and a walkable grid—is one of its greatest strengths.
But in South Florida’s climate, comfort matters.
Future development should prioritize:
- Shade (trees, awnings, arcades)
- Pedestrian-friendly design
- Street-level engagement
3. Housing for More People
Luxury development has fueled growth—but it’s not the whole solution.
To maintain a balanced, inclusive downtown, the city needs:
- Workforce housing
- More diverse housing types
- Creative solutions like liner units integrated into new developments
4. Retail & Cultural Depth
Clematis Street, once the heart of shopping, has an opportunity to evolve again.
There’s room for:
- More retail diversity
- Cultural destinations
- Community-oriented spaces
A simple example? Bookstores. While other cities boast dozens within walking distance, downtown West Palm Beach currently has none.
Looking Ahead: Building a Complete Downtown
The foundation is strong.
West Palm Beach has successfully created a place where people can live, work, and gather. The next phase is about deepening that experience—making downtown not just vibrant, but complete.
A place where people can:
- Live
- Work
- Play
- Connect
- And stay
Explore Downtown Through a New Lens
For those interested in learning more, Gonzalez offers guided walking tours that explore the history, architecture, and evolution of downtown firsthand.
It’s a reminder that behind every building and street is a story—and that the city’s next chapter is still being written.
Explore Downtown: Join a Walking Tour
Thank you
We have built a strong foundation with a vibrant mix of restaurants and nightlife. Now it is time to expand that foundation with more retail, cultural destinations, and community-oriented spaces ensuring that people can truly live, work, play, pray, and connect in Downtown West Palm Beach.
If you are interested in learning more about our historic downtown, I offer unique Walking Tours to groups of 10 or more for a small fee. Feel free to contact our office directly for more information and be sure to follow us on social media platforms LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook!
Rick Gonzalez, AIA, President
REG Architects, Inc.
561-659-2383
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