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Sándor Hauszmann Design
Mar 27, 2024
Built1899
ArchitectsSándor Hauszmann
OwnersAndrás Holtzspach, Károly Haggenmacher

This apartment house, located at Bem rakpart 54-55 in Budapest's 2nd district, boasts a rich history dating back to 1899. Designed by the renowned architect Sándor Hauszmann for András Holtzspach, the building later became the property of Károly Haggenmacher, a key figure in Budapest's development. Károly and his brother Henrik hailed from Switzerland and their family significantly impacted Budapest's industrial landscape. Károly Haggenmacher, the owner of the apartment house, was a successful industrialist who operated mills. Notably, he even employed another Swiss individual, Julius Maggi, as his deputy for a time. This connection holds historical significance, as Julius Maggi would later found the famous Maggi brand, now owned by Nestlé. But the Haggenmachers' contributions extend beyond this chance encounter. The family established themselves as prominent industrialists. Károly's father, Henrik Haggenmacher senior, founded a successful mill in Budapest, contributing to the city's industrial growth in the mid-19th century. Károly himself also owned and operated mills, further demonstrating the family's entrepreneurial spirit. Henrik Haggenmacher Jr., Károly's nephew, made a significant mark on Budapest's brewing industry. In 1862, he acquired a small brewery in Kőbánya, which flourished under his leadership. By 1875, it had become the third-largest beer producer in Hungary, renowned for its high-quality lagers. The Haggenmachers' brewery eventually merged with its main competitor, the Dreher Brewery, in 1923. The Haggenmachers were not just successful businessmen; they were also known for their philanthropic contributions. Henrik Haggenmacher senior actively supported various charitable causes and educational institutions, leaving a positive social impact on Budapest.

 

Historical researcher


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