The office building in the eighth district is shedding its old function and will become a student residence.

The same space, with a different function – this is how we could simply describe what retrofit conversion means in the case of a building. Budapest has no shortage of buildings that have lost their original purpose, shed their former function and are just waiting for someone to reinterpret them.

Perhaps this is where what we now call sustainability comes into play. Retrofitting does not mean haphazard renovation, but rather a well-thought-out, time-tested use of materials and modern solutions – all as cost-effectively as possible. In other words, old but renovated buildings are the future.

This may also happen to the property owned by Károli Gáspár University, located on Szigetvári Street in the eighth district, according to the public procurement notice.

The building, previously used as an office building and healthcare facility, will be given a new purpose as a student residence for university students.

The construction work will be carried out by Nostra Casa Kft. at a cost of nearly 289 million forints.

Well-considered conversion and modernisation

The cited project involves the conversion of a property built in the 1990s, which would provide modern accommodation for students at Károli Gáspár Reformed University. The total net floor area of the building is approximately 2,500 m², with a layout consisting of a basement, ground floor and five upper floors, with a high roof and closed-row construction.

Cost efficiency and maximum reuse of existing structures are key considerations in the conversion process. Accordingly, the technical solutions are based on thoughtful conversion and modernisation rather than demolition.

Architectural alterations: spatial conditions for the dormitory function

The aim of the architectural interventions is to make the existing interior spaces suitable for student accommodation, while retaining the usable elements. This will include, among other things:

• partial demolition and reconstruction of existing plasterboard walls, suspended ceilings and coverings,
• installation of new partition walls and suspended ceilings,
• door openings, installation of new interior and fire doors,
• modernisation of bathroom coverings and insulation,
• the preservation, cleaning and renovation of a significant portion of the existing hot and cold coverings.

Mechanical modernisation: comfort and operational safety

The change of function requires significant building services engineering modifications. The work involves the conversion and partial replacement of the drinking water, sewage, heating and cooling systems. During this process:

• new water and sewerage networks are being built with modern plastic pipe systems,
• cleaning and relocation of existing fan coil units, as well as installation of new units,
• modern heat sinks and thermostats are installed,
• A new ventilation and extraction system is being installed, with fire dampers and regulated air volumes.

Electrical and low-voltage systems: safety and modern operation

The electrical system will undergo a nearly complete overhaul. Following demolition, new wiring, fittings, lighting systems and safety equipment will be installed. The project will include:

• new high- and low-voltage cabling,
• modern, energy-efficient LED lighting and emergency lighting,
• installation of presence detectors,
• development of IT and structured networks,
• expansion and modernisation of the fire alarm system,
• Installation of lightning and touch protection systems.