Four Market projects were among the first Michelin Key winners

The Market Építő Zrt. project, implemented by Dorothea Hotel Budapest, Hotel Clark Budapest, Kimpton BEM Budapest and Párisi Udvar Hotel Budapest, which were implemented in the design of Market Építő Zrt., were also included among the first hotels to receive the Michelin Key certification.

This year, for the first time, the Michelin Guide presented the Michelin Key awards, which recognise the world's most outstanding hotels - with several hotels in Hungary also receiving recognition.

A new era in the hotel industry

The Michelin Key is a quality in hospitality that serves as a compass for travellers, like the Michelin stars. The hotels were rated on five criteria - design, quality of service and uniqueness were key.

Around the world, 2,457 hotels have been awarded a rating of one to three keys, including four iconic hotels in Budapest, Hungary, where Market Építő Zrt. played a key role.

Dorothea Hotel Budapest - from monument to world-class hotel

Dorothea Hotel Budapest was created through the complete reconstruction of the city block bordered by Dorottya Street, Vigadó Street, Apáczai Csere János Street and Wekerle Street. The project, carried out by Market, creates an exemplary harmony between historical architecture and modern technology. As we previously wrote in we wrote about it, the hotel was also recognised in the Klasszis TopDesign competition.

A special feature of the development is the integration of three listed buildings: the savings bank built in 1873, the former shipping headquarters and a modern wing into a single hotel complex.

One of the most spectacular features of the building is the glass-covered courtyard of around 1,000 square metres, which allows natural light into the central spaces. In addition to luxurious rooms, restaurants, bars, conference rooms and modern service areas have been added - while maintaining the historic character.

Hotel Clark Budapest - architectural feat in a confined space

The boutique hotel at the foot of the Chain Bridge was completed after many decades. The installation of the previously vacant corner block presented a series of engineering and logistical challenges for the contractors of Market: construction had to be organised from a strip of only a few metres, while keeping the surrounding traffic uninterrupted.

Each element of the iconic façade is unique: 329 pieces in total, weighing 1-1.5 tonnes each. The colour scheme is inspired by the floor tiles of Matthias Church. In addition to its unique appearance, guests can enjoy unparalleled views of the Danube, Buda Castle and the Chain Bridge.

Hotel Clark Budapest won several international awards and has been on Tripadvisor's „Best of the Best” list for years. The project is also a good example of how a high-quality, iconic hotel can be built in a confined urban area.

Kimpton BEM Budapest - historic facade, modern interior

The five-star hotel and office building, which has previously won awards, was created by renovating the former Radetzky barracks on Bem Square. rel="noopener">previously award-winning five-star hotel and office building was created through the renovation of the former Radetzky barracks on Bem Square. While preserving the façade, the hotel's interior was designed using contemporary interior design solutions.

The works involved excavation to a depth of 15 metres, and the façade was protected by steel reinforcement. The interior design concept is by the internationally renowned Marcel Wanders Studio, the only hotel project of its kind in Eastern Europe.

During the construction, more than 1300 archaeological finds were recovered and handled by museum experts. Sustainability was also a key focus of the project, with the building achieving LEED Gold certification, setting a new benchmark in the domestic hotel industry.

Párisi Udvar Hotel Budapest - Art Nouveau jewel reimagined

The renovation of the Párisi Udvar, located in Ferenciek Square Párisi Udvar renovation was one of the most complex historical reconstructions of Market Építő Zrt.. The Art Nouveau palace, built in 1913, was converted into a five-star luxury hotel, part of the Hyatt chain, while preserving its eclectic style features.

In addition to the restoration of the façade, the passageway and the glazed ceramic roof ornaments, the structure also had to be structurally strengthened. JET Grouting civil engineering technology was used for the construction due to the specific characteristics of the inner city area.

The glass-domed passageway now serves as a heated enclosed space, the courtyard has been covered to create an elegant lounge level, while the roof level has been given a modern extension. The reconstruction struck the perfect balance between turn-of-the-century elegance and modern hotel features.

Value-creating design

The design of the four Michelin Key award-winning hotels illustrates the importance that Market Építő Zrt. gives to the preservation of architectural values, innovative technological solutions and sustainability in its projects.

These buildings are not only tourist attractions, but also a key part of Budapest's architectural heritage.