Semmelweis University to modernise and expand two city centre blocks

The development of the Hőgyes-Schöpf-Merei pharmaceutical research centre, led by TSPC Group, has been granted planning permission, according to a statement from the engineering office. The summary also reveals that the development will be implemented as a comprehensive development project of Semmelweis University, modernising and expanding the teaching, research and drug supply capacities of the Faculty of Pharmacy.

The project involves the reconstruction and expansion of two blocks of buildings in Budapest's city centre, which will serve education, research and pharmaceutical manufacturing.

It is planned that the university's new pharmaceutical production unit will be able to meet the infusion needs of the entire institution in the future.

Focus mainly on reconstruction

A statement from the design company WHB Group stresses that the modernisation of the two blocks in the densely built-up inner-city environment required careful planning.

The project is mainly focused on reconstruction, but the smaller, poorly located buildings have been demolished and new buildings will be added. The project has a useful floor area of 20 679 m² and a gross floor area of 26 745 m².

Two additional levels are added to one of the blocks

The report also makes a special reference to the block on Endre Hőgyes Street, which is currently used as an educational centre for the training of pharmacists. The location of the block is of particular urban conservation importance, as it is close to the Museum of Applied Arts.

Two additional floors will be added to the existing building at 5 Hőgyes Street, creating a uniform street ledge height.

The clock tower on the rear wing will also be reconstructed

The other unit in question is a historic palace building with a large inner courtyard, accessible from Bakats Square. The building has been home to health and social institutions throughout its long history, but is currently disused and in a state of disrepair.

Through the training of pharmacists, the building will be indirectly put back at the service of the health sector, as it will undergo a complete renovation, with particular attention paid to the restoration of the facades, which are of great urban value. Missing elements will be restored, such as the clock tower on the rear wing, which will be reconstructed according to the original plans, restoring its original shape and tower.

The first phase concerns the Bakáts Square block

The new buildings will be finished with a brick-red, textured render that will harmonise with the façades of the original buildings. The new facades will feature plastic plaster decorations, modern glazing and unique shading elements. The historic façades will retain their original appearance, restoring their original colouring.

The Hőgyes-Schöpf-Merei project will be implemented in several phases. The first phase will cover the Bakáts Square block, while the following phases will focus on the construction of additional buildings and the integration of the whole area, ensuring a high level of service for Semmelweis University's teaching, research and pharmaceutical manufacturing activities, and the innovation potential of the future.