Web of Space

Observing the building from the outside, layers open up gradually in front of the spectator: first the lozenge-shaped glass panels, behind them a web of steel frames and then another façade of glass. The building is covered by three layers of "skin" on the side facing Vörösmarty Square.

 

The architect György Fazakas and his consultant Jean-Paul Viguier have prepared a plan that aims to set an example for downtown development. The same way as different building materials alternate on the surface, the functions of the building change as one moves from bottom to top. Above the underground car park are shops that sell international brands on three floors, and a cafeteria, which suffers from a confusion of style: its slightly outdated interior is out of sync with the high-tech appearance of the building. Above the shops are offices on two floors, leased out by the Foundation for Art and Community Culture, which also operates the recently refurbished Vigadó building next door. On the top floors are luxury apartments with big balconies and glass-covered winter gardens.

 

It is an attention-grabbing but at the same time sincere-looking structure. It does not attempt to echo the Art Nouveau and Neo Classicist style of the other buildings surrounding the square, but dares show that it was built in the 21^st century. It presents unconstrained contemporary elements in a pleasing manner without disturbing the order of the square and overpowering the environment. Instead, its glass panels reflect the hustle and bustle of the square, like a spectacular puzzle or an optical illusion in the middle of downtown Budapest.

 

As the façade slightly widens towards the upper floors, it opens a broader perspective high above, but the steel tube framework is connected to the pavement with a graceful pirouette, offering an attractive, yet simple feature on a square reserved for pedestrians. The glass plates covering the façade disappear on the top residential floors and only the bending arch of the steel tube frame protects the surface. The building is practically transparent, its functions are visible from the outside on every floor and once the tenants and office workers come, its life will appear as one with life on the rest of the square.

 

Unfortunately, the attractive concept of a common and open space stops at this point. That is because the 400-square-metre atrium starting from the second floor, which the architects said would serve as a continuation of the public square, is pompously displayed through the double glass layer. But life inside this building will probably have no real connection whatsoever to the life on Vörösmarty Square, where the annual Christmas markets and book weeks are held. It will be remain withdrawn behind double layers of glass and steel tubes.

 

The building is not only attractive but also energy efficient. The use of materials is clever and refined. The rhythm of other buildings in the square is continued and it is a rare virtue that multiple functions are integrated. This is an attempt to revive the old and dying spark of Váci Street in a more credible way than will the former Stock Exchange Palace, across the square, when its renovation is completed. 

 

Author: Eszter Götz / Photos: Máté Nándorfi