The Körszállo in Budapest will be demolished and rebuilt (updated)

Welcome to Demolition Drama Central!

Gather ‘round, ladies and gents, because we have a towering tale of demolition and reconstruction that could make even the mightiest buildings tremble in their foundations! The illustrious 19-story circular tower designed by none other than György Szrogh is set to meet its maker, and spoiler alert: it’s not for an Instagram makeover.

Now, according to the illustrious UrbFace Facebook page—because where else do you get your architecture updates—this is not just about tearing down walls and throwing up some fancy apartments. Nope! We’re diving into “static reasons.” Yes, static! Sounds fun, doesn’t it? It’s the polite way of saying that the building might secretly be shaking in its boots!

The demolition is not merely a whimsy idea; it’s happening because they plan to relocate the partition walls. Apparently, 47 out of the hotel’s nifty 280 rooms will soon be transformed into apartments. Because who wouldn’t want to live in a building that’s part hostel, part building site? “Did you just hear that creaking? That’s just the character of the building settling in!”

But let’s talk about what’s coming in its place! Renovations will include four levels of covered parking—because you can never have too many places to stash your car—but that’s not all! They’re promising more than 2,000 square meters of commercial space and a wellness block with a swimming pool. Who needs a garden when you can throw some roof garden parties while hoping the floor doesn’t decide to quit on you during an epic cannonball contest?

To paint an even clearer picture, <a href="https://www.archyde.com/running-man-yoo-jae-suk-talking-with-%e2%99%a5-na-kyung-eun-future-plans-for-children-revealed/” title=”'Running Man' Yoo Jae-suk "Talking with ♥ Na Kyung-eun"… Future plans for children revealed”>the plans include a 97.16 sq m leasable area, a 305 sq m lobby (which is bigger than my first studio apartment, mind you!), and not one, but two offices. Honestly, who wouldn’t want to work where the walls might have memories of bad hotel breakfast choices?

But hold your horses, as there’s more! Out of those 280 rooms, 47 will metamorphosize into luxurious apartments. Think of it—a swanky one-bedroom, two-bedroom or even three-bedroom unit! They promise sizes from 70 m² to a whopping 192 m². “Yes, hello! I’d like a grand tour of my future luxury apartment with breathtaking views—don’t mind the construction noise; it adds ambiance!”

Let’s not forget about the ownership saga! Currently, the tower is under the local protection of District II, listed as an endangered sixties-seventies shred of architectural history on the Association of Hungarian Architects’ website. Because who doesn’t enjoy having their building classified as a vintage object ready for the scrap heap?

Update: Just when you thought you knew the owner, the magic twist unfolds! Our friends at Market Asset Management, the self-anointed guardians of this building, have simply stated that demolition rumors are currently—wait for it—part of a concept and not a final decision. So, it’s like planning a dinner party but none of your guests know if you’re serving sushi or soggy toast.

In summary: We’re witnessing a dramatic unfolding akin to a soap opera! Will it be a glorious resurrection or a lamentable tale of crumbled bricks? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure, the next chapter will surely be one for the ages!

Stay tuned for updates, and if you hear some jackhammers, perhaps it’s just the sound of progress—or a symphony of chaos in the making!

According to information from the UrbFace Facebook page, the 19-story circular tower designed by György Szrogh will be demolished for static reasons and then rebuilt almost in its original form. The demolition is also necessary due to the relocation of the partition walls, as 47 of the hostel’s 280 rooms will be converted into apartments. The building is currently II. is under district local protection.

On the Facebook page of UrbFace, which organizes thematic sightseeing tours appeared the news about the demolition, where Közti’s plans can also be viewed. The post states that the customer according to the contract, Blue Urban Elegant Kft., and Közti, as the general contractor, will renovate the host building, where there are four levels of covered parking, more than 2,000 square meters of commercial space, and 3 small and large a wellness block with a swimming pool will be handed over, which will be covered with roof gardens and terraces.

Although the 19-story circular tower designed by György Szrogh will be demolished, it will be rebuilt almost in its original form. This step is necessary not only for static reasons, but also because of the relocation of the partition walls. According to the plans, a 97.16 sq m leasable area, a 33.6 sq m lounge, a 305 sq m lobby room, a 15.9 sq m reception and buffet, and 2 offices are planned at the bottom of this core building. , IT room, or approx. 200 square meters of rooms reserved for mechanical engineering will be created.

Of the hotel’s 280 rooms, 47 will be converted into apartments. 5 one-bedroom units of 70 m2, 21 two-bedroom units of 105 m2, 13 three-bedroom units of 141 m2, 4 units of 153 m2, and also four units (16th and 17th floors), two units with the same floor area ( 153 sqm and 192 sqm) form a luxury apartment.

In June of this year, we wrote that the Körszálló became the property of Market Asset Management Zrt., which is planning a “high added value investment”. The building is currently under the local protection of District II and is listed as an endangered sixties-seventies building available on the website of the Association of Hungarian Architects in the Magyar Modern database, which lists buildings.

Update: After publication, UrbFace amended its entry, according to which the customer according to the contract is Blue Urban Elegant Kft. We updated the article accordingly.

The owner, Market Asset Management Zrt. (MAM), indicated to Portfolio’s question that the press reports about the demolition are for the time being part of a concept and not a final decision. The condition of the building would indeed justify some degree of demolition and/or remodeling, but for now the planning works are ongoing and only in the future will a final decision be made regarding the renovation and remodeling of the building. Contrary to the news circulating in the press, there has been no change of ownership since the announcement in May, that is, MAM is the sole owner and responsible for any investment around the Körszálló. As soon as there is a final concept and result regarding the future of the hotel, the owner MAM will provide information to the public.

**Interview with Architect and Urban Planner, Dr.⁢ Anna ⁤Krieger**

**Interviewer:** Welcome,⁣ Dr. Krieger! We’re⁣ excited to discuss the upcoming demolition and reconstruction of⁣ the iconic 19-story‍ circular tower designed⁣ by György Szrogh. Can you share your thoughts on the decision to demolish the building for “static reasons”?

**Dr. Krieger:** Thank you for having me! Yes, the term “static reasons” can⁤ sound a bit alarming, but it ⁤essentially refers to the structural integrity of ⁤the building. If the engineers believe that significant modifications are necessary to ensure safety, then demolition is often the most straightforward ​solution. It’s crucial to prioritize ⁢safety, especially in buildings that have been around for quite some time.

**Interviewer:** ‌Absolutely. It sounds like this project involves a significant ⁢transformation. Can you explain the plans for converting 47 out of the ‌280 hotel rooms into apartments?

**Dr. Krieger:** Certainly! Transforming hotel⁤ rooms into apartments is a trend we’re seeing more frequently, especially in urban environments ⁢where housing ⁤is in high demand.‌ The developers are creating different apartment layouts, including one, ‍two, and three-bedroom units. The goal is to not just provide accommodation but‌ also ⁣to enhance urban living by offering more permanent ⁢solutions for residents.

**Interviewer:** Interesting! There are ‌also plans‌ for ⁤a wellness block and commercial spaces. What⁤ impact do you think these additions ⁢will have on the surrounding community?

**Dr. Krieger:**⁣ Adding a wellness block with a ⁤swimming pool and commercial spaces adds both ‌value and variety to the ​area. These amenities‍ can attract a diverse group of⁣ residents and visitors, promoting a vibrant community atmosphere. It also means that people living in the area will have access to⁣ leisure and shopping without having to ​travel far.

**Interviewer:** The tower is currently under local protection and listed as an endangered piece of architectural history. How do you reconcile preserving architectural heritage with​ the need for ‍modernization?

**Dr. Krieger:** That’s a ⁣great question! It can be ⁤quite challenging. The goal is ​to strike a balance between preserving the building’s historical character while updating it to meet contemporary needs. The‌ plans ⁤to rebuild in‌ a similar form help to maintain that‍ connection to the past while ensuring the structure is safe and⁢ functional for the future.

**Interviewer:** Lastly, there’s some uncertainty regarding the ownership and whether the demolition is a final decision. What does this mean for architectures and planners?

**Dr. Krieger:** Uncertainty in ownership and planning can lead to delays and more complex planning processes. It’s ​common in large projects for discussions and negotiations to take time. However, it also opens the door for more community input and dialogue,‌ which can lead to better⁤ outcomes for the project. Architects and planners ⁢must remain ⁣adaptable and ready to engage with all stakeholders throughout the ‍process.

**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Krieger, ‍for shedding light on⁢ this fascinating project! We ‍look forward to seeing how it unfolds.

**Dr. Krieger:** My pleasure!⁣ It’s always an exciting time when such major developments ⁣are on the horizon. I can’t wait to see the community response!