d+a | Issue 115 • Apr/May 2020

81 (60m²) and two-storey lofts (80–100m²). The property has a longitudinal shape that extends the length of the block. Facing the street, the monolithic red brick façade with small arched windows has been handsomely restored. The sunny, south-oriented façade in purple clinker brick has large windows that overlook a communal garden and playful, brick-shaped terraces in vibrant red and white. This allows plenty of natural light while sharing a balanced aesthetic with the neighbouring apartments. Interior stairwells accentuate the nostalgia of exposed brick, wood and unpainted concrete, while landings are elevated with grey ceramic tiles and lit with minimal strips of light. White handrails and black balusters create a modern industrial look in these common spaces. To preserve the exposed brick, the architects decided to thermally insulate the internal walls of the apartments, which is different from the standard technical solution. Tenants benefit from underfloor heating and cooling systems powered by energy- efficient air to water heat pumps. Aluminium sliding doors and window frames that evoke old steel structures have multi-layer glazing for superior sound and thermal insulation. Integrated smart technology allows the convenient control of the temperature, lights and window shades for comfort and privacy. The architects hope that their solutions and success will inspire developers to renew old industrial buildings into modern, mixed- use complexes, instead of tearing them down. “Budapest is a gold mine in this sense and has a lot of potential,” remarks Turányi. “This is not just an architectural question, but an important sustainability issue as well.” 3. Industrial brick and wood elements have been preserved in the stairwells of the housing project. / 4. Minimal lighting and sleek ceramic tiles give the interiors a modern appeal. 3 4