Tölgyfa utca, a small street nestled in Budapest’s 2nd district, harbors a hidden treasure for Art Deco aficionados: the Budapest Institute for Pneumonia Treatment. This architectural gem was designed by Loránd Almási Balogh and completed in 1931. Almási Balogh also left his mark by designing numerous buildings in the Óbuda Gasworks Housing Estate. The structural design behind this building is credited to Eszter Pécsi, Hungary’s first female engineer. Remarkably, since its completion, the building’s purpose has remained unchanged—a rarity in Budapest’s tumultuous history.

My first encounter with the Institute for Pneumonia Treatment was through the book “Budapest Art Deco” by Dániel Kovács, featuring captivating photos by Attila Gulyás. A few years ago, I reached out to him for private lessons. Thankfully, he agreed, and his guidance has greatly enhanced my photographic skills, so I am very grateful to him!