The former roller mill, which had been lying dormant for nearly twenty years, was purchased in 2021 by Beltex, a real estate development and management company. Építész Stúdió had previously worked on comprehensive historical research and utilization preparation materials for the site, and also created a concept plan showcasing the possibilities. Valyo’s commission focused on preparing for transitional use before major renovations, including related planning and concept development.
During the six-month process, we consulted with experts from multiple fields: cultural management, real estate development, and architectural history specialists, operators of similar spaces, local stakeholders, and creative organizations operating in the city were all involved in the collaborative thinking process. We determined possible functions according to the needs of those living and working in the area, in cooperation with them. The Kelesztés pop-up event series also supported this collaborative thinking and development. Throughout, építész stúdió continuously participated in planning the architectural interventions. The program package completed by year’s end builds on the earlier architectural concept, outlines possibilities for the next 4-15 years, and includes perspectives on potential directions for continuation.
After the research period, from 2025 onwards, the Valyo team is committed to working toward reviving the Buda Hengermalom site as a new form of public space. Despite fragmented ownership structures and private interests, we strive to create common ground among the area’s stakeholders. We aim to demonstrate that through cooperation and creativity, we can create a space that simultaneously serves as a meeting place for the neighborhood and provides a home for the city’s value-creating organizations. The gradual awakening of Hengermalom can not only inspire a more thoughtful transformation of Kelenföld, but also show the entire city an example of exploiting the potential of riverside areas and industrial heritage.
