Buenos Aires is facing a dramatic transformation as rapid urban development threatens to erase the architectural identity that has defined Argentina's capital for over a century. Local architects and urban planners are raising concerns about how new construction projects are fundamentally altering the character of neighborhoods that have preserved their historical essence for generations.

Natalia Kerbabian, an illustrator and architect who has been documenting these changes through her artwork, stands as one of the most vocal critics of the city's evolving skyline. Her detailed drawings capture the contrast between Buenos Aires' traditional architecture and the modern structures that are increasingly dominating the urban landscape. Kerbabian's work serves as both artistic expression and historical documentation, preserving the memory of buildings and streetscapes that are disappearing at an unprecedented rate.

The issue has become particularly pronounced in neighborhoods that were once considered protected by their historical significance. Traditional low-rise buildings with their characteristic facades, wrought-iron balconies, and European-influenced design elements are being replaced by high-rise developments that prioritize maximum floor space over architectural harmony. This shift represents more than just aesthetic change – it signals a fundamental alteration in how the city's residents experience their urban environment.

Local residents and preservation advocates argue that the new construction lacks the cultural context and craftsmanship that made Buenos Aires unique among Latin American capitals. The city's architectural heritage, which reflects waves of European immigration and local adaptation, is being sacrificed for economic efficiency and modern convenience. Many fear that this trend will leave future generations with a generic urban landscape that could belong to any major city in the world.

The transformation is driven by economic pressures and changing demographics, as developers seek to maximize returns on increasingly valuable urban land. However, critics argue that short-term financial gains are coming at the cost of long-term cultural identity, potentially undermining one of Buenos Aires' greatest assets as a destination for tourism and cultural exchange.