Elefante Blanco Building, Abandoned building in Villa Lugano, Argentina.
The Elefante Blanco Building is a nine-story concrete structure in Buenos Aires's southern district with substantial dimensions. The structure now houses government offices and serves as a public space combining administration with green areas.
The project began in 1923 as a planned tuberculosis hospital but was halted in 1955, leaving it incomplete for decades. This long vacancy eventually prompted a complete reimagining of the structure's purpose.
The building represents failed urban development in Buenos Aires and shows how the city transforms forgotten structures into public spaces. Its conversion reflects how abandoned projects can be reimagined to serve the community.
The building is located on Piedrabuena Avenue and is accessible by public transportation. Green spaces and sports facilities are open for visitors, while the ministry offices are generally not available for public access.
The demolition of the original structure required relocating about 270 families who had been living in the unused building. In its place, a large green area with sports facilities emerged for the local community.
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