A Secluded Buda Apartment Reimagined as a Welcoming Home

The story of this design project dates back to the pre-Covid era.
At the time, a young couple with two children approached us to help design their future family home. However, both the design process and construction were significantly delayed due to the pandemic. Together, we adapted to the new world of online consultations and navigated the many challenges that Covid brought to construction.

Since most of the residents in the apartment building were staying at home during the lockdowns, work had to be halted for weeks at a time due to noise restrictions.

The original layout offered a series of narrow, maze-like spaces.
Both the entryway and the kitchen were minimal in size, but in return, the apartment boasted floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning panoramic views of the Buda hills. Our goal was to create well-functioning, practical living spaces that were not only appropriately sized, but also adaptable to the changing needs of a growing family.

The main challenge was to define the right proportions for the shared, family-oriented areas. Being in an apartment building, we faced limitations from load-bearing walls and continuous chimney lines, which restricted full flexibility. However, with the help of a structural engineer, we managed to remove and relocate several walls to open up the space.

The heart of the design focused on the kitchen and dining area. We succeeded in connecting the kitchen to the terrace, and the living room now also benefits from the panoramic view. A playroom was created adjacent to the living area for the children—designed to later evolve into a fully functional bedroom as they grow.

The parents envisioned a private retreat of their own—a bedroom with a walk-in wardrobe and an en-suite bathroom.
From our very first meeting, they emphasized the importance of well-planned lighting and a sufficient number of electrical outlets. The husband, in particular, was highly attentive to the placement, color temperature, and brightness of each light fixture, ensuring the atmosphere in every space was just right.

The children shared a bedroom and had their own separate bathroom.

At the time the design began, home offices weren’t yet the norm—but even then, the family expressed a desire for a dedicated workspace.

In the four years since, the family has successfully settled into their home, and they’ve welcomed a new addition. As a result, the living spaces have naturally evolved: the former home office now serves as a nursery, while the older children have moved into their own individual rooms—just as the original concept intended.

Photo and video: Hlinka Zsolt

"Despite the unprecedented challenges brought on by Covid, working with the clients was a truly positive experience.
It was a pleasure to accompany them through the journey of designing their home. I especially appreciated their bold approach to using color. It was deeply rewarding to help envision a warm, youthful family home—one that feels timeless in both design and quality."

Interior designer: Kitti Kalcsó

Kitti shared a few of her own photos from the construction phase, offering a clearer sense of the transformation and spatial reorganization.
Use the slider to compare the before-and-after images and explore how the space evolved.

Client testimonial:

"We truly enjoyed working with Kitti. We quickly found common ground—she tuned in effortlessly to our budding ideas and even our half-formed needs. We’re especially grateful for how she guided us through the tougher decisions—particularly when it came to choosing lampshades!
We’re also really pleased with the flexibility we achieved in the children’s rooms. Thanks to the thoughtful design, the spaces can grow and adapt with them over time—just by rearranging the furniture to suit their changing needs.
At first, we were hesitant to take on a renovation project. We were at a stage in life where everyday challenges already consumed all our energy. But after our very first meeting, a huge weight was lifted from our shoulders. Even the initial plans made it clear that our ideas weren’t out of reach.
Since both of our children were under two and a half years old during the planning phase, the design meetings actually became a kind of break for us—something to look forward to and enjoy.
It’s hard to pick a favorite spot in our home. If we had to choose, it would probably be the living–kitchen–dining area, where we spend the most time together. After reworking the layout, that space now perfectly serves its purpose: keeping the whole family connected. We're also really happy that the terrace—which originally opened from a bedroom—was integrated into our daily living space. The apartment’s natural light is one of its greatest assets, and it shines brightest in this room. The light here is magical at any time of day. (Sadly, you didn’t get to see it in person!)
What helped us immensely was that Kitti didn’t leave us on our own during the construction phase. Often, by the time an issue reached us, it had already been resolved—so we never had to worry.
We truly love this apartment. Beyond the great location, the friendly community, and the magical light, what we appreciate most is the harmony that flows through every room. Each space fulfills its intended role perfectly, and the colors and high-quality materials add so much to our daily life and comfort."