DIAGNOSIS OF A MODERNIST WORK: THE “PARADOR ARISTON”

M. B. VALCARCE; M. VAZQUEZ

Granada

Congreso; 9TH EURO-AMERICAN CONGRESS ON CONSTRUCTION PATHOLOGY, REHABILITATION TECHNOLOGY AND HERITAGE MANAGEMENT; 2022

The structure known as “Parador Ariston” is located a few kilometers from the city of Mar del Plata, on the Atlantic coast of Argentina. It stands as an example of the rich architectural heritage of the region. It was designed by the renowned modernist architect Marcel Breuer and built in 1948. It stands out for being Breuer´s only work in Latin America. The structure consists of an elevated floor with curved shapes that seen from above resembles a clover. The slab is supported by four columns of the same material. Since built, it had different uses, having functioned mainly as a gastronomic and recreational space. Since 1993 it has been abandoned and neglected. The structure is located at less than 100 m from the seashore, and so the progress of corrosive processes affecting the reinforcing steel of reinforced concrete should be evaluated. Corrosion in reinforced concrete compromises the integrity of a structure and the safety of people circulating nearby. Cracking and delamination of concrete and reductions of diameter of the reinforcements. It also affects the environment of the structure since detachments of material can occur are often observed. Structural compromise can be established by carrying out an in-depth diagnosis of the structure. The evaluation was carried out trying to minimize destructive interventions. A visual survey was undertaken, including measurements of corrosion potential, degree of carbonation, cover thickness and diameter of reinforcements. The inspection showed no indications of corrosion processes endangering the integrity of the structure. Some sectors were identified where immediate attention was required to delay deterioration. Preventive measures and repairments were recommended. This study is expected to contribute to expanding the city´s heritage, recovering an emblematic building so that it can be visited and appreciated by locals and tourists.