Rising majestically before you stands the Comega Building. A Buenos Aires icon it’s more than just a skyscraper. It’s a testament to Argentina’s architectural ambition. This stunning building was the first reinforced concrete skyscraper constructed in Argentina. It was also the first in Buenos Aires to boast an exterior entirely clad in travertine.
Built between 1931 and 1934 the Comega was the brainchild of Ing Alberto Stein and architects Enrique Douillet and Alfredo Joselevich. The building’s rationalist style was revolutionary for its time. It quickly became a rival to another architectural marvel the SAFICO Building. However the Kavanagh Building later surpassed both in height.
The Comega Building wasn’t just a symbol of progress. It held a privileged spot previously occupied by Francisco Madero’s residence. Later it was transformed into the Grand National Hotel. The 19th floor was initially designed for public gatherings. It soon became home to the renowned Comega Club. This exclusive restaurant and cafe hosted many significant events. Imagine witnessing the arrival of the Graf Zeppelin in 1934 from this very spot. Or the moving funeral procession for Carlos Gardel in 1936. The expansion of Avenida Corrientes in 1937 would have also been visible from here.
The Comega’s five high-speed elevators were cutting-edge. They could whisk you up 180 meters per minute a record for Buenos Aires. Even a hair salon catered to the needs of office workers. The building’s strategic location was also a major draw. Situated at the corner of Avenida Corrientes and Avenida Leandro N Alem it’s near the Stock Exchange the Casa Rosada and major exporter headquarters.
From this vantage point you could easily have seen Puerto Madero the Ecological Reserve and the Rio de la Plata. On a clear day even the silhouette of Colonia Uruguay was visible. The Comega is more than a building. It’s a window into Buenos Aires’ rich history and architectural heritage. Its recently restored original features make it even more captivating. The Comega Building stands as a symbol of Buenos Aires’ enduring spirit and remarkable achievements. A true architectural gem.