Hungarian ambassador to Indonesia Judit Németh-Pach started her career at 22 as a special staff member to the President of Hungary for press and communications. Németh-Pach evinces a spirit of exploration in her taste for modern and contemporary Hungarian art. Here, Indonesia Design chats with the vogue-style lady about the diversity of Hungarian design at her official residence in Kuningan, Jakarta. residence in Kuningan, Jakarta.
What’s your take on style?
“I like modern style, and I love bright colours,” Németh-Pach says. The ambassador is an ideal depiction of modern stylish career woman who is up to date on the latest things happening in town. Her go-to style would be a plain dress or skirts in yellow, red or blue with comfortable high-heel shoes. However, she does not mind showing some contrast in her style, for example, in the historical butterfly pattern and geometrical silk skirt she wore made by Hungarian designers from Sugarbird, as well as ring crafted by the Hungarian brand Kiraz.
What would be your itinerary for a Hungarian design pilgrimage?
Németh-Pach responds simply: “It depends, contemporary or classic?” She suggests that before travelling to Hungary, one should explore the nation’s modern and traditional design, architecture and art. “Visit Design Terminal, Hungarian design market WAMP, Hello Wood sculpture, or Szimpla Kert ruin pub if you are looking for a more hipster design trip,” she says. Németh-Pach personally loves to visit the ruin pubs for their inclusive ambience that is a melting pot for experts, artists, students, and tourists. However, she also suggests visiting the 1894-built New York Cafe, the 18th-century Baroque style Boscolo Budapest Hotel, the music theme boutique Aria Hotel and the four-Michelin-star Costes for a more classic trip.
Differences between Hungarian and Indonesian houses?
“I notice that houses in Indonesia are designed to invite friends and big families over, while Hungarian houses are more for private use,” she said, adding that Hungarian homes always had balconies with furniture where the owners can chill in summer as well as a bookshelf in their living room to indicate the interests of the residents. “Most people like reading books. You enter a house and you usually see the book shelf.”
You’re a vegan. Tell me where are the best vegan places in Hungary or any other restaurants you recommend?
“In Budapest, there is Vegan Love, a hamburger place I love. Or you can also visit the great Bistro. it serves more on Hungarian dishes,” she says. Hungary, Németh-Pach adds, is home to four Michelin-star restaurants, such as the upscale Hungarian cuisine Costes, the Hungarian gourmet Onyx, the restaurant and wine bar Borkonyha, and the Hungarian fusion restaurant Tanti.