Buying a Bourgeois Apartment in 2022

Among the apartments for sale in Budapest, many from the turn of the century can be found, which are not always ready to move in and require renovation. The popularity of the peaceful, bourgeois, and classic style remains unwavering. The spacious areas, high ceilings, dramatic large windows, and double-winged doors are all elements that evoke the atmosphere of the turn of the century. Those who opt for purchasing a bourgeois apartment to renovate can follow a classic, elegant line, but they can also transform them into a truly modern home. Many combine old-world elegance with trendy elements, resulting in a stunning outcome!

What is a Bourgeois Apartment?

Recently, the term “bourgeois” has also been used for 2.5-3 room apartments in the inner districts of Budapest, but true turn-of-the-century bourgeois homes included 5-6 or even 8-room properties that were considered luxury at the time.

In the turn-of-the-century Budapest architecture, the toilet and the bathroom were not exclusive to the richest; they were also included in the new homes of the middle class. However, the kitchen at the time mainly functioned as a service area, primarily a workspace for the servants. At that time, wealthy families in the capital preferred to move into the “luxury” apartments in the inner districts.

In the architecture of Budapest at the turn of the century, the gangway design became widespread to maximize the use of inner spaces, and the so-called light courtyards were needed to provide lighting for the back apartments.

The bourgeois style is a lifestyle, elegance, and permanence. Its features include high ceilings, large windows, spacious, open rooms. Traditional wooden parquet was common, with the central elements being the dining and living areas, which are airy and highly functional.

After Purchasing a Bourgeois Apartment

Many choose to buy a bourgeois apartment even if it requires renovation. This is no coincidence. It’s not only because of the unique lifestyle it offers but also because living in such a place is prestigious! A large living area, in a prime location, in the inner districts! Today, bourgeois apartments are also popular among investors, as homes with a unique atmosphere in prime locations are in demand for both short- and long-term rentals. Some people choose to purchase a bourgeois apartment that needs renovation simply because these apartments are available in their desired inner districts, and they are willing to undertake the renovation for the sake of the coveted area.

After purchasing a bourgeois apartment, renovation usually begins, whether it is intended for personal use or for rental. The possibilities are endless. The high ceilings can allow for the creation of a gallery in the apartments, or a custom-built shower can be made as needed. These turn-of-the-century properties in Budapest provide the perfect foundation for creating an exceptional interior atmosphere.

Renovating a Bourgeois Apartment

When renovating turn-of-the-century apartments, owners generally prioritize making the property as energy-efficient as possible. This can usually be ensured by replacing windows and upgrading the heating system. A common issue is that the walls may be crumbling in some areas, so it’s important to thoroughly renovate, not just patch up but re-plaster where necessary. It requires a lot of work and financial investment, but an uneven wall or damp wallpaper cannot be part of a sophisticated design. During the renovation of bourgeois apartments, the floor often needs to be replaced and leveled. This is a good time to consider installing underfloor heating.

It’s recommended to seek the help of a professional team experienced in such renovations, as they are familiar with unique technical solutions and know how to make the most of such properties. Many of these teams are led by highly skilled interior designers. In most cases, if a bourgeois apartment requires renovation, the entire electrical, plumbing, and heating systems will be replaced. In turn-of-the-century properties, the piping system can be a challenge, and it’s important to know the best possible solutions and execution methods.

Due to the high ceilings, it’s important that the lighting design is well thought out, ensuring that the necessary and atmosphere-enhancing light sources are provided everywhere.

The main goal is to preserve the atmosphere of the old bourgeois apartments while creating a perfect home for a modern owner, technically updated for the 21st century.

Furnishing a Bourgeois Apartment

The classic bourgeois style creates a refined, functional, and livable space. The colors are not too bright but rather muted, perhaps pastel. Upholstery and textiles may have patterns or be solid-colored, with the white plaster moldings breaking up the color of the walls. The panel doors are not overly ornate, and the brass handles set the tone. For those who want to loosen up the original style, modern furniture can be used alongside one or two period-style accessories or small pieces. The real sense of luxury can be enhanced by the use of high-quality materials, floor-length curtains, wooden floors, impressive chandeliers, golden-framed mirrors, and paintings. Prominent bookshelves should also be included, as well as antique porcelain items.

Interior Design of a Bourgeois Apartment

Interior design requires substantial architectural knowledge, and the designer must be familiar with both domestic and international design trends. One thing that can be said for certain is that today, modern luxury often embodies spacious, airy large rooms. The natural layout of a bourgeois apartment is perfect for realizing this, as rooms can be opened up, and the small, separate kitchen can be transformed into a wonderful open-plan living room with an American-style kitchen. The former kitchen can even become an extra room, such as a study or bedroom.

How Can a Bourgeois Apartment Become Youthful?

There’s no obstacle to living in an elegant building and yet having a modern, youthful apartment. During renovation, an open kitchen-living-dining area is usually created, which provides a great foundation for introducing a youthful atmosphere. In addition to light and airy colors, a bold, cheerful pattern or color on one wall can give the space a youthful vibe. Furniture should be functional, with a colorful sofa, armchair, or trendy rug making the interior feel modern and light. The practicality of the kitchen and the wellness feeling of the bathroom are just the icing on the cake. Nothing should be overcrowded, but it should feel lively and dynamic!

How Can an Interior Designer Help with the Transformation?

Old, antique buildings with bourgeois apartments hide numerous possibilities, but they also come with challenges during renovation.

If someone just wants to change colors or the overall mood of the apartment but isn’t familiar with the process, they usually seek the help of an interior designer. However, if structural changes are needed or new functions need to be created in the space, an interior architect is required. Their job focuses on interior spaces. They possess architectural expertise and know what is feasible or not, and how to implement changes, with the necessary structural knowledge. Moreover, they are well-versed in design trends, which is essential to make the most out of the property!

Living in a bourgeois apartment is truly special! Every day is filled with a majestic feeling, as if you’ve traveled back to the peaceful times of the turn of the century, yet you’re living in the present, in the best place possible! If you would love to live in such a unique and exclusive Budapest apartment, trust the expertise of Kenway and let us help you find the apartment you desire.