Architects: Fischer József
Builder: Hoffmann Dezső
Topographical number: 15925/7
Year of Construction: 1933-1934
Photography: Berzsák Barna, Wikimedia Commons
Szépvölgyi út 88/b, a villa located in Budapest’s II. district was designed by Fischer József and constructed by Hoffmann Dezső between 1933 and 1934. This modernist residence gained international acclaim, notably being named “House of the Month” by Architectural Review in 1935. Over the years, the villa has been altered significantly, masking much of its original design. Recently the property has been restored, a key piece of Budapest’s architectural heritage lives on.
Szépvölgyi út 88/b is an iconic villa situated in Budapest’s II. district, designed by renowned architect Fischer József and built by Hoffmann Dezső from 1933 to 1934. Fischer, a pivotal figure in Hungarian modernist architecture, created this villa at a time when modernism was beginning to gain traction in Hungary. The villa reflects the innovative spirit of the era, blending functional design with the aesthetic principles of the International Style.
Fischer’s work, though not widely recognized outside professional architectural circles, is highly regarded within the field. His wife, Pécsi Eszter, was a celebrated structural engineer, the first woman in Hungary to receive an engineering degree, and she collaborated on many of Fischer’s projects. Her contributions were significant, particularly in the structural design of buildings like this villa.
The villa at Szépvölgyi út was completed in 1934 and quickly attracted international attention. In 1935, it was featured in the British Architectural Review as the “House of the Month,” an honor that underscored its architectural significance. The publication praised the villa’s modernist design, which was characterized by clean lines, functional spaces, and a harmonious integration with its natural surroundings.
Despite its initial acclaim, the villa has undergone several renovations and modifications over the decades, which have obscured much of Fischer’s original design. These changes, driven by various owners’ needs and tastes, have altered the villa’s appearance, making it difficult to appreciate its initial modernist charm. Nonetheless, the core structure remains intact, preserving the potential for restoration.
The villa, listed under the topographical number 15925/7, covers an area of 360 square meters and contains eight rooms. It has been on the market for 107 million HUF (approximately $300,000), it was purchased and restored successfully. Given its status as a protected building, all restoration efforts had to comply with regulations that ensure the preservation of its historical and architectural integrity.
The house is not only a significant example of modernist architecture in Budapest but also a testament to the collaborative work of Fischer József and Pécsi Eszter. Their partnership resulted in buildings that were not only functionally advanced but also aesthetically groundbreaking.
In the broader context of Hungarian architecture, the villa on Szépvölgyi út stands out for its contribution to the modernist movement. Fischer’s work was influenced by his exposure to the European avant-garde, particularly the Bauhaus and the works of Le Corbusier, which is evident in the villa’s design. The flat roof, the emphasis on horizontal lines, and the large windows that blur the boundary between indoor and outdoor spaces are all hallmarks of this style.
During World War II, Fischer and Pécsi were forced to emigrate due to the political climate. The villa, however, remained a symbol of their legacy in Hungary. After the war, Fischer returned and played a key role in the reconstruction of Budapest, although he did not design any new buildings. His later work focused on urban planning and advocacy for social democratic principles in architecture.
Szépvölgyi út 88/b is a reminder of Fischer’s influence on Hungarian architecture and the broader modernist movement. The villa’s listing for sale presents a rare opportunity to reclaim and restore a vital piece of architectural history, ensuring that Fischer’s legacy continues to inspire future generations.
Project Location
Address: Szépvölgyi út 88bBudapest, 1025 Hungary
Location is for general reference and may represent a city or country, not necessarily a precise address.
