After being neglected for the past few years, the 19th-century palace at 8 Andrássy Avenue was long overdue for a thorough renovation. Following a long period of planning and preparation, the once-grand edifice is now revived as one of the biggest hotel-investment projects of Budapest. The restoration of the protected building, previously known as Schossberger Palace, was executed with the utmost respect for tradition, with modern design elements also being incorporated for a fresh effect. The addition of Hotel Moments is an important step in the beautification of Budapest’s historic center.

Located on Budapest’s most prominent street, the artfully crafted palace – eclectically designed with neo-Renaissance influence – was commissioned by the successful tobacco, sugar, and grain merchant Henrik Schossberger. A commemorative plaque in front of the main entrance pays homage to architect Adolf Feszty.

Since its inauguration over a century ago, the building has housed a versatile set of businesses ranging from Kino Plasticon (one of the city’s first cinemas) to the hardware shop of József Geittner and Ferenc Rausch to a bank, and even several different clubs.

The renovation began after a long preparatory phase based on the plans of local architecture firm ARCHI-KON and chief architect Csaba Nagy. The project was carried out with the involvement of investor CD Hungary Zrt., contractor Market Építő Zrt., and operator Continental Group. Before the new hotel could open in spring 2016, the building was transformed inside and out: while a massive tower crane was lifting tons of construction material into the courtyard, the optical shop on the street outside was able to receive customers without any disruption at all.

The beautifully restored façade is eye-catching enough, but wait until you see what’s behind the walls. The intricate decorative painting on the ceiling is a nod to the premises’ elegant past, while the glass structure covering the formerly open courtyard brings a modern vibe to the interior.

To preserve some of the building’s valuable past, certain original design elements have been salvaged, including two primary attractions – the loggia with iron pillars and the sgrafitto decorations on the downstairs ceiling created by renowned Magyar painter Károly Lotz, whose works also adorn the nearby Opera House and St. Stephen’s Basilica. Thankfully, the hotel’s modern features are quite subtle, and don’t overpower the more traditional elements.

Art Deco is the main design influence inside the 99 rooms of the four-star hotel. The upstairs Andrássy Suite offers an exceptional view of the Basilica dome. The ground floor of Hotel Moments houses a new, elegant restaurant, and if everything goes according to plan, it will soon add a terrace overlooking Andrássy Avenue.