An architectural symbol of Sárospatak reborn

One of the architectural symbols of Sárospatak, the former Teachers' College is a two-storey, almost 3200 square metre building with local protection. The latter is a striking example of Lechner's use of the Upper-Hungarian Renaissance in this period, especially in the context of the patriarchal construction.

Respect for tradition and modernity

The aim of the renovation, which began at the end of 2023, was to preserve the historical values of the more than 100-year-old institution and to modernise it according to the plans of 4D Építész Stúdió, so that it would be both energy-efficient and fit for the educational needs of the 21st century.

Due to the local protection of the building, the preservation of its original appearance was a priority. The main challenges were the façade design, the roof renovation, the modernisation of the wooden shutters and the ceiling ornamentation of the ceremonial hall. The investment, financed by national and EU funds, is a milestone in the development of the school and a worthy continuation of the Comenius tradition.

The main features of the building have been preserved

The experts of KE-VÍZ, a multi-generational family business based in Nyíregyháza, completed the demolition work during the comprehensive renovation - after taking over the work site - by autumn 2024. This included the interiors and the roof. The windows and doors have been manufactured with modern glazing and construction, but their appearance faithfully reflects the old ones.

A significant part of their work involved the repair of facades, the renovation of cornices, and the replacement of windows and doors. The internal partitioning of the building was followed by mechanical, electrical and low voltage installation works.

The tower has been rebuilt

The main building, inaugurated in 1913, has undergone its first complete reconstruction. One of the most spectacular features of the work is the tower, whose wooden structure had to be partially rebuilt. Several experts assisted in this phase.

Nearly 300 windows and doors renewed

The last phase of the construction was the technical work. Mezősi Marina, project manager of the contractor, said that in the months before the handover, the biggest work was the hot covering, painting and wood panelling, as well as the installation of internal blinds.

The scale of the project is reflected in the 2740 m² of roof surface, 2620 m² of façade surface, nearly 200 exterior and more than 80 interior windows and doors, and thousands of square metres of cladding and suspended ceilings.

Friendly environment, sustainable operation

The interior refurbishment created bright, flexible teaching spaces and single-space offices, according to the client's requirements. Spaces for distance and hybrid learning, a geo-information lab, new ventilation and lighting systems and state-of-the-art heating and cooling technologies ensure comfort and efficient operation.

One of the key aims of the reconstruction was to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions of the building by around thirty percent.

The building's feared secrets revealed

KE-VÍZ is no stranger to the renovation of listed buildings - the company has carried out several similar-scale reconstructions in the past, even some with listed status. These include the restoration of the Andrássy Castle in Tiszadob and the Open-Air Theatre in Nyíregyháza. The company's specialists are thus equipped with the knowledge and experience that is essential to carry out work of the required quality. Marina Mezősi said:

Every project brings new experiences, but renovation work always has unexpected twists and turns. During demolition, the building held structural surprises. We also encountered interestingly constructed walls and use of materials. Most notably, there were no foundations under some of the partition walls when the floor structure was demolished, and their stability was shaken. The current job also required professional flexibility, immediate problem solving and precise teamwork.

Marina Mezősi also pointed out that it is always a special experience for the contractors to compare the photos of the original state with the finished building. The contrast shows not only the technical performance but also the value of the work invested.

The renewed main building