La Mansión Álzaga Unzué stands as a timeless icon. Now, following a restoration led by Four Seasons Hotel Buenos Aires, this Belle Époque treasure has been revitalised to its original splendour, in a new chapter for one of Argentina’s most storied residences.
A Creation of Stone and Silk
Originally built in the early 20th century as a wedding gift from aristocrat Félix Álzaga Unzué to his wife Elena Peña, the mansion was inspired by French palaces and designed by Scottish architect Robert Russel Prentice, a graduate of the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris.
Declared a Cultural Heritage Site by the City of Buenos Aires, the property has long been a symbol of elegance and social prestige, hosting luminaries from around the world including Taylor Swift, Shakira, and the Rolling Stones.
Restoration with Reverence
The restoration project, led by heritage specialists and artisans, focused on preserving the mansion’s original materials, techniques, and finishes. Highlights include:
- French Oak & Marble: Original oak floors were restored, and marble thresholds replaced with hand-selected pieces. The famed 600-kilo Italian marble staircase was polished to its former glory.
- Bronze & Boiseries: Bronze railings, fittings, and doorknobs were meticulously polished. Wood-panelled walls and gold leaf details were revived by Fernanda González, renowned for her work on Teatro Colón.
- Textiles & Carpets: Custom carpets echoing the mansion’s historic pattern were crafted with 80% wool and 20% nylon for density and durability. New silk shantung curtains with handwoven trim now grace the salons.
- Lighting: The French tile roof was restored, and a new lighting design now illuminates the mansion’s architectural beauty at night.
- Sustainability Touch: A fresh herb garden was installed on the terrace, supplying the hotel’s culinary team with seasonal ingredients.
A Refined Guest Experience
The Royale Suites 102 and 103 received bespoke updates, including restored furniture, mirror salons, and curated design elements that blend historical charm with contemporary luxury. Guests staying in these suites enjoy original 1920s oak flooring, grand ceilings, and views of the city from a setting that feels both intimate and opulent.
Honouring the Soul of Buenos Aires
“La Mansión Álzaga Unzué is not just a historic building it’s part of Buenos Aires’ soul,” said Renan Astolpho, General Manager of Four Seasons Hotel Buenos Aires. “Restoring it with the care it deserves is our way of honouring its legacy and offering our guests an experience that blends history, luxury, and Argentine warmth.”
This restoration reaffirms Four Seasons’ commitment to heritage preservation and exceptional hospitality, ensuring that La Mansión continues to enchant guests for generations to come.
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