Szilágyi András (szerk.): Ars Decorativa 28. (Budapest, 2012)

Magdolna ZIMÁNYI (GYÖRGYI): The Hungarian Room Designed by Dénes Györgyi at the University of Pittsburgh

At the meeting on 28 February 1930, the jury led by K. Róbert Kertész in the absence of Kornis, Ravasz and Baron Perényi, found both reworked plans acceptable, but did not make a decision for one or the other. Kornis sent both plans to consul Alexy to forward them to Pittsburgh. The Hungarian Room Committee chose Dénes Györgyi's plan. (fig. 1) The final decision was taken by Chancellor Bowman on the committee's recommendation, and the Ministry was informed via consul Alexy: "In selecting Professor Gyorgyi's plan, this committee has been influenced primarily by the simplicity of the wall material which inspires restful surroundings not likely to disturb the students' attention. The color scheme is delightful, especially in the design for the ceiling. The furniture is restrained and dignified, yet characterful.'"

8 Upon his request the Ministry paid the prize of 400 pengő for Károly Bodon in November 1930, and Dénes Györgyi received the 1000 pengő due to him in March 1931. Among the surviving documents of the ministry there are no more letters about the case. It can only be gleaned from Györgyi's correspondence with the Pittsburgh committee and the Ministry of Religion and Public Education that he made unsuccessful attempts at getting budgetary support and kept informing the ministry about the progress of the construction. 1. Dénes Györgyi's drawing of the view of the room. Looking towards the entrance door, 1935, 23.5 x 30 cm, photo: Judit F. Szalatnyay (Budapest History Museum, Kiscell Museum, inv. no. 66.147.12) 26