“A real box built by colored Lego cubes.” That is how some describe the Simplon-h\u00e1z. Let me tell you about this colorful Budapest landmark.
Simplon-h\u00e1z stands as a testament to early modernism. It injects a vibrant splash of color into its urban surroundings. Built in 1934, Simplon-h\u00e1z was designed by G\u00e1bor Preisich and Mih\u00e1ly Vad\u00e1sz. This building quickly became a residential icon. It stands on B\u00e9la Bart\u00f3k street.
Notice the rounded corner. It is a nod to the architectural styles of the early 20th century. The building’s facade features a rhythm of boxes. These boxes echo the design of nearby apartments from the 1960s.
The architects conceived a facade that constantly changes. It responds dynamically to the building’s daily life. Each apartment has a large open facade. All include a covered terrace known as a loggia. Adjustable aluminum louvers shade the large openings. They provide sun protection and act as personalized visual filters.
The lamellas are colored to match the apartment they shade. When all louvers are closed, the Simplon-h\u00e1z transforms. It resembles a stack of colored Lego bricks.
Colored glass is a key material in the external facade. You will see yellow, orange, red, green, blue turquoise and dark blue. Each flat has its own color. This color is also on the entrance door. This makes it easy to identify each apartment.
Inside the U-shaped building are two vertical transportation cores. They are at the breakpoints of the U shape. Open side corridors lead from the staircases and elevators. This design mirrors Budapest traditions. It allows for natural ventilation and dual-sided lighting. The corridors overlook a quiet internal garden. A green wall adds to the peaceful atmosphere.
The southern wing rises on two-story high V-shaped legs. This semi-covered public space connects the building and the city. Passersby can view the internal garden and facades. The ground floor offers various services. Shops, a pharmacy, and a coffee shop are available to residents and neighbors.
On the top floor are white pavilions. These pavilions house five unique penthouse flats. Glass walls and private roof-gardens surround them.
Interestingly, Simplon-h\u00e1z was not just a residential building. It was also the first in Budapest to integrate a movie theater into its design. Before this, cinemas were in converted theaters or separate buildings. The Simplon cinema, however, was part of the original plan. The cinema had a separate entrance and exit. Its design surprised visitors with its simplicity and practical innovations. It operated for many years under different names. It eventually closed after privatization. Today, the space is occupied by businesses, including the Semmi Extra restaurant.
Even with internal changes, the Simplon-h\u00e1z remains a sight to behold. Admire its glass facade. Note the continuous ledge on the mezzanine. Appreciate its well-balanced proportions. Observe the attention to detail on the side street facade. This building embodies the spirit of Bauhaus architecture. Remember G\u00e1bor Preisich’s legacy as we celebrate this iconic structure on M\u00f3ricz Zsigmond k\u00f6rt\u00e9r.