HUNGARY

A Memorable Journey in Budapest!

Reflecting on the remarkable experience we had a few years back when we embarked on the mission of finding a home for our clients in Budapest, our brief was clear: a Baroque-style mansion on the outskirts of the city centre.

Budapest, with its 23 districts, is a city defined by its unique character. Each district, numbered in a clockwise fashion like Paris’ arrondissements, offered different lifestyles. We spent time considering our clients’ priorities—whether they valued peace and quiet or preferred being close to bustling restaurants, shops, and bars.

After extensive reviews of various properties, we decided to focus on Rezmal in the Second District, situated on the charming "Buda" side of the Danube. This area is known for its historic elegance, and it felt like the right choice.

The mansion we discovered was nothing short of stunning. Built in 1932, its Baroque style was beautifully preserved during a renovation in 2008, which introduced modern conveniences like spa facilities and an elevator. The house spanned 700 sq. m. and featured four bedrooms and four bathrooms, nestled on about a third of an acre. With two stories and a full basement that included a studio apartment and a remarkable 15m heated swimming pool, it was a dream come true.

We vividly recall walking through the entrance, marvelling at the meticulously reconstructed doors and windows, all reflecting the original 1932 design. The pear-and-walnut parquet flooring added an air of elegance throughout the home. The furniture, including exquisite cast-iron chandeliers, was a bonus.

The living room and open-plan dining area led out to a spacious terrace, perfect for gatherings. The library was a particular highlight, featuring an inlaid wood ceiling, hand-carved cherry shelves, and hand-painted windows—a true sanctuary for any book lover.

In the kitchen, Miele appliances and Poggenpohl cabinets promised culinary delights. The basement was a wellness paradise, boasting a Finnish sauna, infrared sauna, steam cabin, Jacuzzi, and a massaging shower. We were thrilled to find a wine cellar that could hold approximately 500 bottles, perfect for entertaining.

The house was equipped with built-in audio by Bang & Olufsen, automatic shades, and a central vacuum system, reflecting a blend of luxury and practicality. The landscaped grounds, adorned with cedar, chestnut, and plane trees, featured an irrigation system, and there was even a detached garage that could accommodate five cars.

Rezmal stood out not just for its grandeur but also for its vibrant surroundings. The Second District is dotted with historic mansions, large estates, embassies, and schools. A mere two-minute drive took us to Szell Kalman Square, the lively heart of Buda, complete with the Mammut Shopping and Entertainment Centre and an open-air grocery market. Plus, the international airport was conveniently just a 30- to 40-minute drive away.

Reflecting on that day, we felt a fantastic sense of accomplishment. We weren’t just finding a house; we were uncovering a home steeped in history and poised for new memories for our clients.