Page 79 - Sajo ENG

1947–1948

BUILDING OF THE

SOCIAL SECURITY

INSTITUTE (OTI)

(NOW THE GYULA KENÉZY HOSPITAL AND CLINIC)

11-17 Bethlen Street

After World War II new buildings were constructed within the framework of the
three-year plan: in addition to residential housing, these were primarily clinics
and Trade Union Social Security Centre (SZTK) buildings in the country. Due to
this, in the second half of the 1940s architects were mostly commissioned by OTI
(the former SZTK). The first of these commissions in Hungary was the Debrecen
OTI building, followed by the central clinics in Kecskemét, Csepel and Újpest.
The OTI building in Debrecen is Sajó’s chief architectural work after 1945, which
he co-designed with László Králik. His aspirations towards a modern style, i.e. to
apply 20th-century architectural forms, can already be discerned in this public
project of a European standard.

The U-plan building has a tight architecture and is distinguished by moderation.
Of the two shorter wings perpendicular to the main axis, the left one has a large
curve, which itself is a noteworthy design solution. The main entrance fitted
with pillars is placed in the middle of the main façade and is flanked by reliefs
designed by Tibor Vilt. A unique element of the design is its recessed third floor
with terraces.

Co-designed with László Králik

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