New York design firm ODA Architecture are dedicated to revitalizing the inner city. In Buenos Aires, they will convert a run-down parking garage into a sizeable public park, green roof and top-class office building called Paseo Gigena. For now, they are working on the construction of an exciting new apartment building called ZETA in Belgrano.

With 126 residential units, the visual language of the facade brings the modern vernacular of the city’s balconies right up to date. At ZETA, the wrap-around terraces are large enough and sheltered enough to function as outdoor living rooms, a space to relax and watch urban life and culture unfold.

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The contemporary upscale spaces sit on a tree-lined street in between the 1960s modernism of the university buildings and the historic mansion housing the Australian Embassy. The south and west aspects are unfettered by large neighboring buildings, allowing warm afternoon sun to enhance the use of the terraces as places to relax and entertain. The designers imagined a seamless connection between inside and out.

Full-height windows in the inner façade, mid-height solid railings at the mid-sized balconies and full-height solid railings at the largest of the balconies provide shade and privacy. Metal trellis framework descends from a rooftop pergola in a simple palette of glass, cast-in-place concrete and white metal accents.

At the street and courtyard level, lush landscape extends the rejuvenating spaces to the exterior. The lounge and fitness area are complemented by a pool, partially shaded by the building above. The residents’ private dining area opens to outdoor cooking and dining spaces.

All apartments within the ZETA project were fully sold in advance of construction. The building should be completed by the end of 2021.  Belgrano is one of the largest neighborhoods in Buenos Aires, a sought after, mainly residential area spanning an area of 6.8 kilometers. 

+ ODA Architecture