Category: Construction

Este’r partners designed a high-end apartment for their client in the exciting industrial environment of Budapest’s 11^th district. In an interview, interior designer Csilla Szabó shared some interesting details about the project.

What is so special about this industrial part of Budapest, where the newly planned apartment is located?

As the historical records show, in the second half of the 19^th century the milling industry developed significantly in Budapest, and several large steam mills were built. It was during this period, in 1879 that the Gizella Mill was built on Soroksári Street in the 9^th district of Budapest, designed by Károly Bachmann, commissioned by the Krausz-Moskovits family. After the change of regime, the mill was listed as a historical monument, the interior was demolished in 2000, and then in 2009 office buildings, a hotel and residential apartments were built inside the remaining walls. This is where our client bought a loft apartment, which was designed by the team of este’r partners and where we worked on the interior design execution all the way to the handover of the project..

What was the client’s request and what was the starting point for the project?

The structural design of the apartment with exposed brickwork inside, ground floor and mezzanine floor, stairs, terrace was suitable for a small office; the owner requested a change of function to convert it into an apartment for himself. In terms of design, simple, modest interiors were the main focus, which was a real joy for us, as we could keep the emphasis on the space. However, the most important aspect was to achieve a unique look with subtle elements in the space. The spatial structure provided us with a fantastic basis for our work, the challenge was to create residential functions along the inner gallery (an area without frontal windows).

Tell us about the spatial structure, the division of the space, the room layout.

We planned to keep the original spatial structure but develop the apartment function: the windows on the double level illuminate the living room, we did not plan a wall in the open space structure, the owner requested the kitchen function on the ground floor to be created with windows, so the ground floor guest room/study room was designed without windows, and on the ground floor there was also a utility room and a bathroom with sauna. Opening up the interior room, connecting it as much as possible to the large space, and defining it with large sliding glass doors were also important design considerations.

The upstairs guest bedroom is also designed as an interior room and although the upstairs bedroom has a small window facing the Danube, both rooms have been designed to maximize the amount of light from the gallery through a glass wall.

In the design of the corridor with walk-in closets connecting the rooms, transparency and the maximum amount of light from the gallery were also key factors.

What exciting solutions did you implement in the living room? What makes this space unique?

On the one hand, the internal glass and lamella wall system on the gallery level, which encloses the upper level and enriches the original spatial structure.

In the original space, which was bordered by exposed brick walls, a single large white painted partition wall seemed strange in the space, so a mural was painted on this surface to break through the wall and extend the space.

The lighting was the most exciting task in the vast space of the living room, replacing the previous industrial lamps and designing lamps that are rarely used in residential spaces due to the lack of ceiling heights. These lamps are delicate, light, airy and blend almost imperceptibly into the space.

How does a special spiral staircase and brick wall transform the apartment?

The original staircase was retained for cost-effectiveness reasons, and it also functions well, being comfortable, wide, and good at breaking up the angularity of the space, as well as having a sculptural effect. The brick wall in its original condition was not suitable for the owner, so we replaced and repaired the missing and damaged elements, and impregnated the surface. In the completed apartment, it became a prominent and dominant element of the space, which no longer required the use of other decorative interior elements.

Tell us about the unique solutions for storage and lighting.

With a restrained, more geometric use of architectural lamps, the principle of less is more works throughout the whole concept, including the lighting. In the interior room on the ground floor, we designed a carpet with custom-made graphic illuminated with adjustable lighting on the ceiling.

In the living room, the suspended linear lighting from the vaulted ceiling appears as a bracket on the brick wall surface, but there are no fixtures on the unique brick wall, we installed them on the floor.

Storage solutions include a number of exciting elements, such as wall-mounted hall and kitchen furniture, or custom storage units covered with full length mirrors in the bathrooms – these do not actually look like furniture in the space.

What makes this apartment truly a ‘Budapest home’ and gives it an ‘este’r partners style’?

We have utilized the existing elements of the renovation of the historic industrial mill, focused on its structure and finishes, while preserving its architectural character, and this has been supported by the interior design from start to finish with unique elements and solutions to create a cozy atmosphere for our client in this exceptional space. We agreed to complete this project with the contractor, keeping a constant eye on costs, preparing and delivering this apartment during the most difficult period of the construction industry in recent years, so I can honestly say that this is our work as the team of este’r partners in every aspect.

A professional experience of visiting KALDEWEI factory in Ahlen, Germany, creator of shower trays, bathtubs or washbasins. Steel enamel is not only their material but also passion that moves them with maximum precision, timeless design and technological innovation.

Thank you for organizing this trip for us, David Várkonyi!

The newest villa park in Mártonhegy, in the 12^th district of Budapest, will be based on the interior design concept of este’r partners. The high-class investment is being built in a forest setting and focuses on the meeting of soft, natural spaces and sophisticated elegance. The seven villas feature some of the finest European design, creating cozy spaces that residents can enjoy every day. Eszter Radnóczy, the lead designer, and her team are now taking us into their world of clean and unique design – as usual, with a little Italian twist.

Each of the seven apartments in the villa park has a private garden and a large terrace, so a perfectly cozy private space is created in the vast area. The interior design concept of the apartments was created by Eszter Radnóczy, lead designer, and the interior design studio este’r partners, in the spirit of elegant, soft design, always keeping in mind that the soft colors of the nearby forest and nature should be reflected in the interior of the apartments.

“In Hungary, it is rare to find the kind of unity of thought that we have here during the development in Mártonhegy,” says Eszter Radnóczy. When the architectural concept is in such deep harmony with the interior design, it is guaranteed that every detail will be ideally positioned, harmonious, valuable and timeless.”

The forward-looking elegance of the apartments combines a high level of spatial organization with sophisticated design solutions. In this villa, the living-dining room functions are beautifully blended and the room is divided by spectacular and comfortable furniture. The space is characterized by soft curves and rounded surfaces, which play an important role in creating a cozy atmosphere. The natural colors on the walls, the textiles and the choice of furniture resonate with the surroundings and the forests of Buda. The harmonious balance is broken only by a single distinctive piece, such as the Besana rug in the living room or the striking armchair in the bedroom.

“According to our clients, the character of the work of the este’r partners often has a female perspective, a woman’s touch. This applies here too: we believe that the soul of a home designed with a female logic lies in the numerous storage spaces, the hidden surfaces, the soft details and the harmony that runs through every detail – all of which contribute to the feeling of coziness. This is especially important in projects such as this villa development, where the buyer only needs to arrive with one suitcase – everything else is a part of the new home,” adds Eszter Radnóczy.

In the Buda villa park, only the large sliding doors and other huge windows separate the residents from the garden and the forest. The apartments are built with smart solutions and the technology needed for efficient operation, keeping sustainable solutions in mind. The real highlight is the designer kitchen by the Italian premium kitchen technology giant Valcucine, which can completely hide all the functional parts if needed, and offers one of the best premium solutions on the market when it comes to cooking.

A key focal point in the design was a functional, inspiring study, as with the recent rise of remote work, residents can spend full working days in this room. The star of the newly presented apartment is a chair by the unconventional Italian brand, Black Tie. It offers not only the ergonomics needed for optimal working, but also looks aesthetically pleasing. The bedroom’s bed and comfortable armchair are perfect for recharging, while the carefully selected lamps and lights ensure complete relaxation. The apartment is furnished with the Italian brand, Cosy’s wardrobe closet, introducing the world’s most enviable luxury wardrobes to the residents of the villa park.

In this project, este’r partners uses almost the entire range of products from their showroom Estorio, near the Opera House, opened this spring, in order to create an exclusive harmony in design. The apartments feature premium products from Italian, Dutch and German design in an unique chemistry. Valcucine’s kitchen solutions combine a sustainable approach with high-tech solutions, while Rubelli’s fabulous textiles and Galotti&Radice’s unique elegance or the refined lamps of the Italian ZavaLuce provide a real sense of luxury.

In the most elegant neighborhood of Buda, in a house of great architectural importance, a complex interior design project was realized by Eszter Radnóczy, lead designer, and the team of este’r partners.

The city apartment with panoramic views of the Danube has three en suite bedrooms, a spacious American kitchen and an elegant living room. The original layout of the apartment was complex, with varying ceiling heights and a confusing wall system, so the first challenge was to develop the ideal floor plan – the result was a spacious, clean space.

The classical interior is characterized by a minimalist use of materials: the marble-like, large-format tiles, the natural, soothing colors, the wood paneling and the large but light furnishings create a beautiful harmony. The atmosphere of Buda is enhanced by the rebuilt stucco and wooden panels, the work was carefully completed by the este’r partners’ own team.

The project won the international award of Emilgroup in Prestigue category in 2022.

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Lead designers: Eszter Radnóczy, Hajnalka Zellei

Photo: Dániel Molnár

Hotel Oktogon opened its doors in June, the building was originally a much-loved palace on Andrássy Avenue, later a public library and, for a time, one of Budapest’s favorite nightclubs. After three years of renovation, the building is now open as a hotel, designed by este’r partners interior design studio (lead designers: Eszter Radnóczy, Hajnalka Zellei) and architectural partner Archikon.

The neo-Renaissance palace at 52 Andrássy Avenue was built at the end of the 19th century, between 1884 and 1886, designed by Henrik Schmahl, who also designed the Párisi Court and the Urania National Film Theater, and developed by the Swiss-born brewer and mill owner Henrik Haggenmacher.

The elegant palace has been restored and renovated, retaining its original character, the inner courtyard behind the representative gate now features a lobby and a breakfast area instead of horses and carriages, the details of the ceiling in the corridors were given back their original beauty, while the interior design remained sporty and casual, designed to match the style of the hotel’s guests.

In our short interview, we talked to lead designer Eszter Radnóczy about the interior design of the palace’s renovation.

What are the details and stories from the history of the building that were important to you in the design process?

The history of the Haggenmacher and later the Dreher family and their numerous real estate investments in the center of Budapest are all remarkable. The Haggemacher Palace is characterized by its central staircase, painted arches, ceilings and natural light. All of these outstanding features have been restored to their original appearance and represent a significant legacy for the future. Being part of its rebirth has been a long, challenging process, but definitely an exciting experience.

Can you describe the atmosphere in the lobby?

The architects have linked the part of the historic building to the contemporary staircase in the lobby. Now this space has a new function and meaning with the former open courtyard becoming a space enclosed by a glass roof. While the flooring and facade elements follow the style of historic buildings, the furnishings and installation elements are adapted to the hotel’s youthful, cosmopolitan atmosphere. They are colorful, clean, comfortable and vibrant.

What solutions did you use in the historic room?

The rooms are characterized by their original wood paneling, which has been restored to its original light walnut color. The large size of the rooms allowed the bathroom blocks to be positioned in the center of the room, leaving the original coffered wood paneling on the exterior walls. This central spatial planning allowed us to divide the space within the historic room into a bedroom, a hallway and a living room. The walls and ceilings are dark green, with deep shades to match the wooden panels. The furnishings are a classic-modern combination.

The hotel is sporty and cool, but also elegant. What does 3 stars “allow you to do”?

The building has a lot to offer in terms of experience and value, I think it is one of the most exciting houses on Andrássy Avenue – it was beautiful even before the renovation. The new design brings new life, freshness and complements the heritage of the period, without damaging the original, but renovating it to serve new values, modern comfort and functional and aesthetic needs.

What are the design highlights of the building?

The basic building elements were dominant: warm gray stone decorations, pillars, cornices, black and light gray diagonal checked flooring, and painted ceilings with leaf patterns above the staircase, this color composition was discovered during the renovation. In the interior design, dynamic colors were used throughout the non historic area of the building, with a trio of basic color combinations of red, green and blue and their pastel versions featuring the whole building, sometimes together and sometimes separately. The rooms are bright, cheerful and compact, the quality of the color and the use of materials make them more interesting. The airy appearance and mixed function of the lobby is also quite fascinating, it is now both a bar and a breakfast area. The reduced and curved pieces of furniture are accompanied by objects that are deliberately eye-catching, such as long neck floor lamps and flower pots that enhance the visual experience.

Photos by Tamás Pál

Este’r partners designed the interior of the Hungarian showroom of Vagheggi beauty brand from Verona. A training room, a community space, a kitchen and service areas can be found in the 300 sqm showroom located in Budapest.

The concept of the showroom follows the Italian company’s branding, which was developed by WEA Group – este’r partners was responsible for the design of the additional features, graphic solutions, the execution design and project management.

The communal kitchen has stunning curved shapes. The feminine, soft atmosphere is further enhanced by the illuminated leaf pattern on the ceiling. One of the walls will feature a design wallpaper by the Italian company, Affreschi while the othern wall will have a unique mottled style wall paint by Wallpaint. The atmosphere is further softened by modern furnishings. The space is characterised by a sophisticated mix of powder colours and green.

Our client, a company with a British background, has opened Gravity Brewing, a craft distillery and tasting space in downtown Budapest. Este’r partners was responsible for the interior design of the public spaces and the spectacular tasting room in the historic corner building.

Decorative elements such as Mutina’s design brick create an exciting focal point in the retail space, the counter, made of glazed bricks and pieced together from small elements, is covered with a wooden panel. The Gravity logo is also featured on the flooring, enhancing the brand’s image.

The industrial-style loft features a unique wall covering and can be accessed by a designer staircase. A cosy tasting room can be found upstairs, it is a great place for groups or companies to enjoy a tasting. The real highlight of the interior is a David Groppi’s designer lamp.

In the course of our work, we have found that it leads us to success if we manage the complexity of a project, from the planning to the completion. Besides planning, este’r partners studio is happy to undertake the design supervision, the coordination of the project and the complete execution, which we entrust to our own specialists who work closely and reliably with us, fair and accurate.

Execution is carried out under close budget control and cost tracking. Our professional background is complemented by a well-established international manufacturer and supplier network and a deep knowledge on products. Our studio has a wide collection of samples and its own product range. We have a personal relationship with most of our trading partners, based on many years of friendship and working together.

We selected some of our most exciting moments on the sites from our photo gallery – please note that personal protective equipment must be worn!

At Szervita Square, in Budapest where the former Downtown Telephone Exchange Center was located, Biggeorge Property envisioned Emerald Hotel&Suits, a hotel and apartment building which forms an architectural unit with St. Anne’s Church and offers one of the city’s most valuable properties. Eszter Radnóczy, chief designer and the este’r partners studio with offices in Szentendre and Milan, is responsible for the interior design concept. The portfolio of este’r partners includes interior design work on Budapest’s most popular restaurants (Bárkert Bistro, La Fabbrica, Minute Lounge&Bar), public spaces (reconstruction of the Buda Civic Casino) and several hotels at Andrássy Avenue.

The recently opened Emerald Residence invites guests into an elegant interior, created with precious materials and unique designs, taking into consideration the beautiful meeting of the old and the new and the heritage of the historic downtown location. Interior designers at este’r partners have created a cosmopolitan, yet high-quality, soft and slightly exotic interior which blends beautifully with the prestigious downtown environment and the modern building.

The interior design team of este’r partners has led the iconic forest green color through the interior of the Emerald: in combination with geometrically fractured claddings and surfaces, it gives the interior a jewel-like elegance. Forest green velvets meet champagne colors, metals and shiny, rich veined marbles: this is interrupted by the use of the natural walnut and playful mirrors.

Functional spatial structure, recurring geometry, hidden functions

The heart of the project is the breathtaking yet functional spatial design: the sunken island of the lobby, the level shifts at the restaurant, the leveled garden adjacent to the church as well as the hotel and apartment rooms.

Spatiality was one of the greatest professional challenges for the Emerald’s interior designers. In the restaurant, for example, they had to break the strict marble pavement was laid in a herringbone pattern, enriched and broken by copper profiles that took away from the strictness of the sahara noire marble. A similar playfulness was used to cover the staircase that connects the lobby to the toilets, and draws the eye of the guests.

The architectural shaping of the space was followed by an interior design refinement; they took into consideration the functionality of the space and the operator’s perspective. The spatial design was complemented by the installation of the suspended ceiling and the creation of open partitions to divide or extend the spaces.

The different variations of the Emerald logo, with their graphic playfulness, appear in numerous places throughout the building, yet all remain discreet. Both in the restaurant and in the rooms, hidden functions are a feature, coffee-making units or functional parts of rooms are kept discreet, while the covering is made spectacular and generous by elegant, large surfaces and noble materials.

Elegant wallpapers, recurring forest green and fresh moss bowls

In addition to the exciting spatial relations, the use of noble materials, velvet wallpaper walls and individually designed furniture, space elements and decorative tools create the elegant harmony that characterizes the building. The este’r partners team designed a myriad of unique objects, surfaces and graphics to match Emerald’s rich character – these custom-designed surfaces required a high level of manufacturer knowledge and several technical discussions.

Examples of creative design solutions include the lobby partitions and the unique graphic illuminated ceiling with a plant pattern. The design and shape of Kriska’s metal cladding, which surrounds the lights in the restaurant and lobbies is also striking and emphasise the priority functions. The flooring of the corridors is also based on a unique pattern, with the simple warm beige color blending with the hotel’s recurring green and orange patches – the pattern also highlights the fact that it is printed on a glossy, hotel-quality material.

The interior design team added fresh, unique solutions to the shelving system of the partitioning in the lobby: some decorative elements were added to the shelves to further enhance the visitor experience, such as moss bowls, custom-designed white giant books and Bullstein’s large ceramic vases.

Guides the guest: discreet, yet impressive graphic system

The signage scheme was developed by the este’r partners team with the help of Sign Creative specialists. The signage system as a whole is based on a complete concept: modern and elegant, with champagne-colored, wall-mounted metal signage panels to guide the visitor. It is important that the signs are lightweight, openwork and are floating on the wall cladding behind them, so that the unity is not broken. This way, guests can still feel the wood panelling, the velvet wallpaper behind the signs.

The room number markings are hidden in the floor: next to the room doors, there is a stone inset engraved into a metal plate in the carpet seaming. Guests can also read the numbers in the mirror next to the doors. For better visibility, there is a spot-lighting system that projects narrowly onto the number.

Exclusive solutions and designer partners

Several areas of the hotel are characterized by velvet and silky glamour. Inspirational products such as Erba Italia’s accent, armchairs with their majestic dimension, Ditre Italia’s sofas, Kriska’s metallic curtains and Zava’s technical luminaires were used for the exceptional designs.  The este’r partners team worked with high-quality brands that match to the building’s style: velvet wall coverings by Dutch Walltextile and distinctive furniture by Erba Italia, such as the Virgola chair, were designed for the interiors, accompanied by outstanding solutions such as Kriska’s decorative chain curtains in the restaurant and the lobby.

The hotel is uniquely built in a U-shape around the church of St. Anne in the center of the city, in Szervita Square. Between the church and the partly new, modern building, a garden provides access to the lobby: the level shifts of the garden, the green facade of the new building and a soon-to-be sky-high tree, creates a sheltered, romantic courtyard. The garden will blend into the streets of the city center in a discreet and beautiful way, and will be a peaceful place where guests can relax.

Situated right next to the Szervita Square church, the building does not only offer an outstanding location but also close architectural connection. Guests can also enjoy an unusually impressive view from the courtyard rooms – it can be an incomparable experience combined with interior design solutions and high quality service. The church and the modern new building will be linked by a large glass panel with a unique graphic, which will be visible from the street, bringing together the much-loved duality of Budapest, the old values and the new, vibrant solutions.