Residencia Maguire: A Glimpse into Buenos Aires' Aristocratic Past

Located on Avenida Alvear, Residencia Maguire is a testament to Buenos Aires' golden age, a time when the city's elite embraced European customs and architectural styles. Constructed in 1890 by engineer Alejandro Hume and designed by architect Carlos Ryder, the mansion showcases a blend of Victorian, Gothic, and Renaissance influences. The building's detailed stone facade and interiors reflect the opulence of the era, with materials imported from Scotland. Originally known as Hume House, the residence hosted one of Buenos Aires' first art exhibitions in 1893, a charity event showcasing paintings, furniture, and objects from private collections. In 1913, renowned landscaper Carlos Thays designed the private gardens, further enhancing the property's grandeur. In the 1920s, the mansion was sold to the Duhau brothers and became known as Palacio Duhau, adding to the confusion with another residence of the same name. Susana Duhau, married to John Walter Maguire, later resided here, and her daughter's family still owns the residence, making it the only aristocratic mansion on Avenida Alvear that continues to serve its original purpose. Today, Residencia Maguire stands as a historical landmark, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives of Buenos Aires' elite and the architectural splendor of a bygone era. While interior access is limited, the exterior architecture and surrounding Recoleta neighborhood provide a captivating experience.