A Bauhaus Style Chauffeur’s Apartment Turned Open Space Studio

Name: Reka
Location: Budapest, Hungary

Our remodeled apartment in the hills of Budapest is living out its 9 lives in full style. The 45 square meter/485 square foot space is situated in a 1930s Bauhaus style villa, and was originally a chauffeur’s apartment until the ’40s, when my great-uncle bought the place and settled in with his wife. In 1996 our family in Buffalo, New York inherited the little corner and three years ago, we set about transforming the cramped quarters into a spacious open studio apartment. We worked with designer Emese Bunyik on the concept for the space.

What we love about the result is the free open space and the combination of pre-war style elements with our bohemian new finds. The high ceilings and curved Bauhaus window frames, retro shades and characteristic red striped cords provide our home with a classic framework.

Our living room is a harmonious collection of stories. The floor length claw-foot mirror and matching glass cabinet are heritage pieces from my great-aunt. The vintage pieces flank the living room, together with a found fringed recliner and re-upholstered Mad Men-esque leather armchairs.

My childhood upright piano stands in front of the bedroom nook with a nice mahogany sheen that mirrors the newly installed aged hardwood floor and glowing Edison bulbs. To offset the masculine sternness of the main color palette we added slightly pinkish walls and our own colorful trimmings.

Throughout the space a snaking light fixture made of copper pipes marks a path, stringing the different functions of each area together seamlessly. The reading corner, dining area, bedroom, and kitchen are demarcated by naked bulbs and shades in different lengths and brightness.

These days, beyond little bits and bobs from our travels, the main additions to home are books and plants. We’re addicted to everything from bromeliads to ferns and Kokedama. Working from home, my best colleagues are the giant monstera to my left and Finn the Cat to my right.

Thanks, Reka!

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