For Westend, the most popular shopping center in the heart of Budapest, the key to innovating and adapting by understanding the changing needs and desires of customers lies in emphasizing sustainability and eco-friendly practices. Consequently, the management commissioned the pioneers of wooden architecture in Hungary, Hello Wood, to undertake the largest development of Westend since its opening - the renovation of the food court
Nature-inspired renewal. The food court of Budapest’s largest shopping center becomes Food&Friends by Westend
Adapting to the new consumer preferences driven by the digital age for shopping centers means incorporating cutting-edge technologies and offering customers a comprehensive experience that goes beyond shopping through the redefinition of spaces. This is what happened with the transformation of the food court of Budapest's largest shopping center into Food&Friends by Westend
The design team at Hello Wood created a concept that combines research findings with the expectations of visitors and the values represented by Westend, while ensuring the highest level of compliance with ESG guidelines. This led to the creation of Food&Friends by Westend, which functions not only as a modern food court but also as a community space. Hello Wood also designed and created a series of unique, site-specific, and accessible furniture
The goal of the project is to create a unique, nature-inspired atmosphere, facilitating visitor flow, incorporating various thematic areas, and cutting-edge technologies. The oak furnishings, made from locally-sourced FSC-certified wood, embody the commitment to sustainability throughout the production process. The uniquely shaped furniture provides comfortable resting points for visitors amidst the harmonious atmosphere created by the natural wooden elements. The centerpiece of the space features a monumental 28-meter-long LED wall, creating an engaging backdrop, and the color-adjustable lighting above the walkways creates unique ambiances, positively influencing the mood and senses of visitors
The design of the seating has been strategically enhanced, resulting in a 10% increase in seating capacity. The new seats are equipped with wireless chargers and USB ports, and the pursued zero-waste philosophy has led to the creative use of leftover wood as a decorative element. The project prioritizes efficiency and energy saving by introducing measures such as innovative mechanical systems, LED lighting, and efficient heat management
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