sorházak

Sorházak, also known in English as row houses or terrace houses, are a type of residential architecture characterized by a series of identical or similar houses sharing side walls. In Hungary they form a ubiquitous feature of many urban landscapes, especially in cities that expanded rapidly during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The concept originated in Western Europe during the Renaissance and evolved as a practical solution to dense population growth, offering uniformity in construction, efficient use of land, and straightforward maintenance.

Typical sorházak are narrow with two or three stories, often capped with pitched roofs or flat façades depending on the period. The façades may feature decorative stucco, pilasters, and modest balconies, but the overall emphasis is on symmetry and cohesion with neighboring units. Internally, rooms are arranged in a linear fashion: living spaces near the street, bedrooms and service areas towards the back. Modern adaptations sometimes incorporate additional staircases or expandable storage to meet contemporary living standards while preserving the external appearance.

The proliferation of sorházak accelerated after the Austro‑Hungarian Empire’s urban reforms, as planners sought to provide affordable, high‑density housing for the working class. In Budapest, for instance, the Gellért Hill and Újlak districts showcase typical 1910s sorházak, reflecting the Art Nouveau style. Debrecen and Szeged also feature distinctive regional variants, varying in façade ornamentation and roof design.

Today, sorházak continue to be a vital part of Hungary’s architectural heritage. Conservation efforts balance the need to modernize utilities and comply with building codes against preserving historic exteriors. Consequently, many sorházak now serve mixed purposes, combining residential apartments with ground‑floor commercial spaces, thereby sustaining their relevance in contemporary urban life.