A CONCEPT BOOK

The Hidden Gems of Argentina

Beachside Mansions and Unique Architecture

Paz S.

BetterPros Architect & Interior Designer

The Hidden Gems of Argentina

What is Mar del Plata?

Mar del Plata is a vibrant coastal city in Argentina, situated about 250 miles (400 km) southeast of Buenos Aires, the nation’s capital. Known as the “Pearl of the Atlantic,” it is the country’s most popular beach destination, offering stunning sandy shores and a rich cultural scene.

Founded in 1874 as a small fishing village, Mar del Plata soon became a glamorous summer retreat for Argentina’s elite. By the early 20th century, it had transformed into a hub of luxury and social gatherings, where Buenos Aires’ wealthiest families built grand mansions to showcase their status and enjoy the seaside charm.

Why Were Mansions Built in Mar del Plata?

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Argentina experienced a wave of European influence in its architecture and design. Wealthy families from Buenos Aires sought to recreate the elegance of English and French estates in their summer homes. These mansions were designed as symbols of sophistication and often incorporated local materials to harmonize with the coastal environment.

What is the Mar del Plata Chalet?

The Mar del Plata chalet is a distinctive architectural style that emerged between the 1930s and 1950s. It blends European design with Argentine craftsmanship, creating homes perfectly suited to the city’s coastal climate.

Key features include:

  • Local Stone (Mar del Plata Stone): This grayish-brown stone, quarried locally, is used for facades, creating a rustic yet refined aesthetic.
  • Sloping Roofs: Gabled roofs with terracotta tiles, influenced by French and Spanish designs, help with effective drainage and add a European charm.
  • Wooden Details: Doors, windows, and trims made from high-quality woods such as cedar or oak add warmth and elegance.
  • Front Gardens: These homes often feature beautifully landscaped gardens to connect the architecture with its natural surroundings.

Iconic Examples of Mar del Plata Architecture

Victoria Ocampo was a renowned Argentine writer, editor, and cultural patron. Her magazine Sur was a literary landmark, and her home was a meeting place for intellectuals.

Villa Ortiz Basualdo (1909)

  • Estimated Size: Approximately 8,600 sqft.
  • Details: Built for the wealthy Ortiz Basualdo family, this French-inspired mansion features Mar del Plata stone exteriors, slate roofs, and luxurious wood interiors. Today, it serves as the Juan Carlos Castagnino Municipal Art Museum, preserving its architectural beauty while showcasing art.

Villa Victoria (1912)

  • Estimated Size: Approximately 5,400 sqft.
  • Details: Imported as a prefabricated wooden house from England, this residence belonged to Victoria Ocampo, a prominent Argentine writer and cultural icon. Its modular design and large windows make it a standout example of innovative architecture for its time. Today, it functions as a cultural center hosting art exhibitions and events.

Chalet Los Troncos (1940s)

  • Estimated Size: Approximately 4,800 sqft.
  • Details: This house exemplifies the Mar del Plata chalet style, with a balanced use of stone and wood to create a rustic yet elegant aesthetic. It has become a landmark and lent its name to the prestigious Los Troncos neighborhood.

Chalet Divisadero (1930)

  • Estimated Size: Approximately 4,000 sqft.
  • Details: Built as a seaside retreat, this chalet features robust stone walls and sloping tiled roofs, designed to withstand the coastal climate while maintaining a timeless charm.

The Role of Mar del Plata Stone

Mar del Plata stone is not just a building material; it is a symbol of local identity. Its natural tones and textures harmonize with the coastal landscape, while its durability ensures that structures endure through time. The use of this stone became a hallmark of the city’s architectural style, giving Mar del Plata a cohesive and distinctive visual character.

Why Mar del Plata’s Architecture Matters

The architecture of Mar del Plata tells the story of a city that evolved from a quiet fishing village to a glamorous resort town. Its luxurious homes and innovative chalets are a testament to how regional materials and cultural influences can shape timeless design.

For architects and designers, Mar del Plata offers a unique case study in blending local resources with global trends. These homes are more than just buildings—they are cultural landmarks that capture the elegance and creativity of their era, leaving a legacy of beauty and innovation.

Paz S.

BetterPros Architect & Interior Designer

Concept Book? What is this about?

These articles are a curated selection of writings by our incredible professionals. They share insights into their work, interests, and perspectives on the world.

Why ‘concept book’? For us, this name perfectly reflects the project’s core: a platform for sharing ideas, expertise, and visions—a collection of concepts that transcend borders and inspire meaningful exchanges.

The professionals featured in these articles hope this book serves as an introduction to their mission of building a world where distance is an opportunity for mutual inspiration. We thank our readers for joining this journey and embracing ideas that cross oceans and cultures.

What is BetterPros?

BetterPros is a talent solutions firm connecting US companies with exceptional remote professionals in design and architecture.

Interested in knowing more about these professionals? 

A CONCEPT BOOK