- Noémi Vizi
- Reading time: 2 minutes
The Kun Villa, the former home of one of the founders of Balatonakarattya
The architectural styles around Lake Balaton at the beginning of the 20th century present a rich and diverse picture, closely intertwined with local cultural and social changes. The period was characterised by Art Nouveau and eclectic elements, alongside which Bauhaus influences also appeared, such as geometric forms, angles and curves, representing the signs of modernity. In the holiday resorts along the Balaton shore, villa buildings and guesthouses became increasingly typical, often reflecting a close connection with nature.
Balatonakarattya was already inhabited during Roman times, but its modern history began in 1928. From 1909 onwards, travelling from Budapest to Lake Balaton became easier, and in the previously mentioned year of 1928, the parcelling and development of the area began. The Balatonakarattya estate was divided into plots by a group of several high-ranking officials and leaders. Attila Kun, the director general of the Gas Works, was also involved in this process. His villa, built in 1932, is presented in this article.
The uniqueness of the Kun Villa lies not only in the fact that it carries Bauhaus characteristics, but also in the way local natural heritage was incorporated into its construction; for example, red stones originating from Balatonalmádi were used. The villa soon became a centre for artists living in Balatonakarattya and a popular meeting place. Frequent guests included, among others, the Kodolányi family and Gusztáv Oláh, who was a set designer at the Hungarian State Opera House. The property itself is a two-storey, four-room villa with two bathrooms. It was recently renovated and currently functions as a family home.
Returning to Attila Kun, he was the economic director of the Scout Association, which is why scouts frequently visited the property. On one occasion, he came up with the special idea of organising a scout camp on the lakeshore. It required a great deal of planning and organisation, but the project was successfully realised. For years, international scouts were welcomed on the shore and in the villa’s garden. Often, tables filled the entire area around the house, and conversations continued late into the night.
Kun did a great deal to promote the development and prosperity of Akarattya. He can be considered not only one of the founding figures of the settlement, but he was also indirectly connected to the opening of the first local shop. He persuaded the Hangya Cooperative Association to establish a store there, making everyday life easier for residents. Furthermore, infrastructure development did not stop there: Árpád Street became the first paved road in the settlement, providing access all the way to Kenese.
