The Budapest Europe Experience Center has opened its doors in the Szervita Square Building, with the goal of making the operation of the European Union’s institutions tangible and accessible to people of all ages through an interactive experience.
The architectural design and construction of the facility were carried out by DVM, who transformed the existing building by integrating two previously separate floors into one coherent visitor area, connected by a new elevator and a unique staircase. The implementation made use of cutting-edge technologies that not only enhance the visitor experience but also ensure long-term sustainable operation.
A European initiative
The European Parliament and the European Commission are establishing experience centers in major EU capitals to showcase the functioning of the Union through state-of-the-art interactive stations and tools. Budapest is the seventeenth city to host such a visitor and event space.
“The greatest challenge was to integrate the EU’s strict security and accessibility standards into the space while creating an environment that feels friendly and inspiring for visitors. We are particularly proud that we met the highest international standards and contributed to making Budapest a home for this distinguished European institutional space,” said Orsolya Nagy, DVM’s project lead architect responsible for design.
Design & build implementation
The project followed DVM’s signature design & build approach, meaning that every stage - from concept to completion, was managed under one roof. The exhibition space was originally designed by the German firm Atelier Brückner, based on which the DVM team prepared the construction plans and realized the 825 m² experience centre.
The venue presents the workings and values of the European Union through three thematic zones. Across the two floors, visitors can explore the EU and its member states via interactive multimedia tools such as touch-screen panels, animated infographics, thematic videos, and digital maps.
Key features
At the heart of the center is a 360-degree cinema with 37 seats and a 12.5-meter diameter, where panoramic projections immerse visitors in the challenges and shared themes shaping life across the EU. The 280 m² role-play zone allows visitors to step into the shoes of Members of the European Parliament, forming groups and simulating real decision-making processes. Supporting areas, such as restrooms, server rooms, security and staff facilities, and storage: ensure both visitor comfort and smooth operation.
Technical challenges and innovation
The building transformation posed highly complex technical and organizational challenges. The ground floor and basement were previously disconnected, making the installation of the new elevator and curved staircase key elements of the project.
The integration of these structures into the existing reinforced concrete framework demanded meticulous planning and execution. The creation of the curved staircase was made possible by Gábor Kászonyi’s patented Hungarian-developed gypsum concrete technology, which combines exceptional thinness with high strength. This solution reflects not only engineering precision but also a sculptural aesthetic quality.
A major design challenge was the integration of complex technical systems, control units, wiring, lighting fixtures, and sensors, so that they remain virtually invisible. The aim was for nothing to distract from the immersive experience while ensuring flawless technical performance in the background.
Lighting design plays a central role: recessed ceiling fixtures and light lines running along shadow gaps not only enhance the exhibition but also create a novel sense of spatial perception. Dynamically programmed lighting scenes subtly guide groups through the exhibition areas.
Another challenge was achieving acoustic comfort - blocking out external noise and optimizing the sound within the interior. This was achieved through sound-insulated doors and windows and special acoustic wall finishes. The most striking element of the centre, the 360-degree cinema, features a custom-built curved perforated metal wall and a bespoke lighting system.
Complex site conditions
The team faced further difficulties as the building’s ground floor housed restaurants, laboratories, and shops, while the upper floors contained offices and apartments. As a result, noisy construction work could only take place for a few hours each day under a strict schedule.
Partial demolition and reinforcement of the existing monolithic concrete slabs were required, supplemented with steel beams and columns and carbon-fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) laminates and plates around new openings. The new structures emphasize transparency and lightness, achieved through the use of modern steel and glass, harmonizing with the raw concrete backdrop of the original building.
In addition, the construction had to comply with the European Parliament’s strict security regulations, which required the installation of blast-resistant and bulletproof structures as well as airlock-style access control systems.
Photography: Zsolt Hlinka