Interior Design styles of Buenos Aires

Nov 2

In a country known for its pampas grasslands, Patagonian peaks and desert vineyards, Buenos Aires is a perhaps unexpected design destination. But this capital city of 15 million people has a strong sense of creativity and style.

Walking through the streets of the bustling metropolis, you immediately understand why it’s known as ‘the Paris of Latin America.’ The French-inspired architecture, grand statuesque buildings, wide boulevards and café culture draw many similarities.

But when it comes to interiors, Buenos Aires is a complete melting pot of styles. In addition to the Parisian influence, many designers have embraced Scandinavian minimalism, modern industrialism, and even bohemian, all sprinkled with a regional Latin vibrancy. It’s impossible to say there is just one defining characteristic, but after living here for almost 9 months, I thought I’d break down some of the common trends in Argentine design.

Indoor/Outdoor Living

Although in the winter months of June - August temperatures can drop into the low 40s, that doesn’t stop the porteños (people of Buenos Aires) from embracing the indoor/outdoor culture that dominates both commercial and residential design.

Photo credit: Hernan Landolfo (left) Colle Croce (right)

Many designs feature large floor-to-ceiling windows, sliding glass doors or courtyards that connect to the kitchen or dining room.

Minimalism

There are no IKEA stores here, but that hasn’t stopped locals from embracing the Nordic simplicity that is characteristic of the Swedish furniture company. Perhaps it’s the desire to escape from the chaos of life in a big city or maybe to create a calm contrast to the volatile economic situation. But whatever the case may be, spaces often feature simple modular furniture with clean lines and lack of clutter.

This restraint can be seen not only in furniture selection but also color palettes of both designers and home ware stores, like VK Home, located in Palermo Hollywood. Here you’ll find beautiful art, furniture and home accessories all in blacks, whites and neutrals.

Eclectic / antiques

Both tourists and local designers benefit greatly from one particular Argentine trait: they never throw things out. Although they aren’t necessarily hoarders, Argentines certainly would rather repair something than toss it in the trash, which is reflected in the countless antique stores and flea markets. And for designers who are willing to search, there are some incredible items from the early 1900s when Argentina was considered one of the world’s 10 richest nations (like this trumpet chandelier).

Industrial Architecture

Argentina is known for producing some of the most famous architects of all time, including Cesar Pelli, and continues to be one of the most popular career choices today. As lines often blur between architecture and interior design, nowhere is this more true than in Buenos Aires.

The current trend for many homes being designed today is an industrial / neomodernism style, reflected in both the exterior and interior. Architectural elements including vertical wooden slats, board-marked concrete, and full-height glass doors are complemented by simple wooden tables, chrome accents, and greyscale upholstery.