Budapest is full of derelict buildings and former industrial areas, many of which can still be saved if they’re given a new function, apart from the usual offices and luxury hotels. Now a new scheme aimed at local students, run by tourism initiative experts CheckINN and design university MOME, is offering significant rewards for the best two projects to reconfigure the city’s rustbelt with exciting new features.
The Hungarian capital contains many successful examples of revamped former industrial, transport or military areas, now flourishing complexes of culture and commerce. You only need think of Graphisoft Park, Millenáris Park, art quarter Budapest or the former Northern Vehicle Repair Depot, one of the largest brownfield developments in Europe. These locations are now integral to the city, thriving centres of business and leisure.
The aim of the CheckINN Revitalizátor competition is to give young people the chance to reshape their environment, to bring Hungarian creativity and design to the fore, and broaden the tourist palette.
The scheme is in Hungarian only but its winning entries – competitors have until 30 June – should be fascinating. Watch this space!
