| Work Detail |
It will be the first establishment closed since the inauguration of the DOT: it will have a gastronomic terrace that will begin to operate in December, while the rest of the works will be completed in April 202
The Oh! Buenos Aires project, located on the former BA Design site, is moving towards completion. The gastronomic terrace, one of the main attractions, will be ready in December of this year, while the rest of the works will be completed in April 2025. It will be the first enclosed shopping center to open in Buenos Aires.
To carry out the work, the Hatzalaj SA investment group, made up of 100% national capital, intervened in 52,000 m² distributed over four floors. Among the most significant changes, the underground parking lot was integrated into the ground floor of the new shopping center, leaving three levels of retail and a fourth for the Recoleta Cultural Center.
A project that combines history, sustainability and modernity
The original building, known as “Asilo Viamonte” and built in 1890, underwent structural reinforcement to preserve it and adapt it to current demands. The renovation maintained the imprint of renowned architect Clorindo Testa, merging his legacy with a contemporary and sustainable design.
The shopping mall will house more than 100 commercial establishments, with renowned national and international brands, many of which already have a presence at Oh! La Barra in Punta del Este.
The new shopping centre stands out for its sustainable approach: it does not use air conditioning or heating systems, thanks to the incorporation of four patios of 100 m² each, which provide natural light and ventilation. Currently, 70% of the work is finished, with the structure and installations already completed, while more than 150 workers are advancing in the placement of the floors and final details.
“The entire complex, including the facades, was renovated. Although the front changed significantly, the interior courtyards are one of the most notable transformations. Four courtyards were designed to maximize ventilation and natural light, which involved a major structural intervention. Each one reflects different historical moments, from 1976 to 2018,” said Guillermo Sambresqui, director of the project.
The renovation involved removing obsolete facilities that had not been maintained for more than a decade. This included everything from escalators to entire infrastructure systems. In addition, new elements will be incorporated, such as a panoramic elevator imported from Japan. The basement, previously used for parking, now houses commercial premises, although with a few parking spaces exclusively for suppliers.
The partitions were designed with flexibility to allow functional adaptation of the spaces according to requirements
The partitions were designed with flexibility to allow functional adaptation of the spaces according to requirements
As for the facades and historical elements, heritage conservation regulations were strictly respected. This included consultations with Historic Monuments and adjustments to preserve the original architectural legacy, such as the buildings fireplace and balustrades. The terrace, shared with the cultural center, was redesigned in collaboration with this institution and was given over for its exclusive use.
Regarding the commercial premises, Sambresqui pointed out that the distribution of spaces and occupancy are under constant negotiation. “In some cases, flexible divisions were designed that allow the spaces to be adapted to the needs of the tenants,” he explained.
With a focus on the experience,
Oh! Buenos Aires defines itself as a new generation mall, focused on providing entertainment, gastronomy and retail experiences. Among its main attractions, the Gastronomic Boulevard, which already has 80% of its spaces rented, will have 35 proposals, positioning itself as a key point in the culinary offer of the city. Among the confirmed brands are: Luccianos, Starbucks, Temple, Patagonia, MÖOI and Beer & Coffee. In addition to Vilebrequin, a luxury icon in swimwear, Rouge and Miller Jewelry.
In addition, a major international fashion brand is currently in the pre-contract stage, which will act as an anchor store in the complex, and an agreement is being finalized with a top-level gym chain, which will occupy the space previously designated as Hard Rock Café. Sacoa is also returning with an adult sector, with simulators, virtual and immersive reality, and a nostalgic atmosphere. In addition, there is a childrens area with interactive games.
On the other hand, Janos Eventos will open a new Convention Center with capacity for 1,500 people. The auditorium will be a large space, with a reception on the ground floor and areas totaling around 1,200 square meters distributed on three levels. It will have an independent entrance on Azcuénaga Street, in addition to being connected to the cultural center and other spaces in the complex. "It will represent a revaluation of a space that was once very important. Buenos Aires, as a center for tourism and meetings, is key, and we believe that this project fits perfectly with that dynamic," Federico Bianchi, director of Expansion at Janos, told LA NACION. |
