Refurbishing Budapest’s Bustling Hub
Széll Kálmán Square underwent a significant transformation led by Építész Stúdió and Lépték-Terv, turning it into one of Budapest’s busiest downtown transport hubs and the most frequented public square on the Buda side. The primary aim of the architectural and landscaping endeavor was to streamline and rationalize the inner parts of the square, prioritizing pedestrian access while maximizing green spaces, all without disrupting the flow of commuters.
Optimizing Pedestrian Flow
An analysis of crowd movement guided the placement of resting areas, incorporating shrubs, trees, fountains, and benches strategically. By identifying the shortest routes for transfers and utilizing less congested areas, the project optimized pedestrian flow, ensuring efficient movement throughout the square while maintaining unobstructed connections for heavy foot traffic.
Total Reconstruction
The project involved a complete overhaul, including the demolition of outdated Soviet-era bus stops, commercial pavilions, and old tramlines that crisscrossed and fragmented the square. However, the iconic fan-shaped metro station, dating back to the 1970s, was preserved and reimagined. Once crowded with small shops hindering transparency, the station was revitalized to become a transparent focal point, welcoming commuters and visitors alike.
Embracing Raw Materiality
New constructions, such as service buildings and tram stops, adopted the raw materiality of the metro station, creating a cohesive architectural language. Rather than imposing architectural colors, the vibrancy of the square is derived from the diverse crowd that frequents it, adding life and energy to the urban landscape.
Innovative Design Elements
To enhance the aesthetic appeal of the concrete surfaces, concrete reliefs were introduced using various techniques by the industrial design collective S’39 HYBRID MANUFACTURE. These reliefs incorporated textiles, minerals, and rubbers cast into the concrete, resulting in intricate micro-surfaces that formed unique collages, including representations of centuries-old maps of Buda and Pest.
By integrating thoughtful design elements and prioritizing pedestrian needs, the revitalized Széll Kálmán Square stands as a testament to the successful fusion of functionality, aesthetics, and urban sustainability.
