What is the story behind The Rock Cabins, what was your inspiration to create it?
We are an architecture company that has designed and built all kinds of structures, not only buildings but also installations and sculpture-like forms usually made of wood. We became famous throughout Europe for these creations and have engaged in commissions from all walks of life, from small cafes to big city installations. We build funny structures for festivals but also serious homes and cabins.
After designing and building such structures, it was natural that Hello Wood eventually turned towards hospitality and tiny cabins. After a while, we realised that the land where we hosted our building summits and camps for young people was perfect for glamping. Three years ago, we decided to use our cabins as the basis of a glamping property, The Rock Cabins.
The Rock Cabins are unparalleled in the world — you don’t see this form or shape anywhere else. We opened two years ago and were booking out four months ahead.
How would you describe the atmosphere and the interior design of The Rock Cabins?
It’s important to note that The Rock Cabins is in a very interesting part of Hungary — the Upper Balaton region. After Budapest, Balaton is the number one tourist destination in the country. The northern region is volcanic and renowned for its wine, as well as being very rich in history, culture and nature.
In between the volcanic hills is an area called Kapolcsi where one of the most famous Hungarian festivals is held — the Valley of Arts Festival. It takes place over 10 days and showcases the culture, gastronomy, wine and music of the local villages.
Within this rich matrix, we created The Rock Cabins, which tries to make guests feel as though they are far away from everything, despite being just two kilometres from the epicentre of the festival. The whole location is embedded in nature. It’s an interesting contrast. You turn off the main road and find yourself in an orchard with sheep grazing between the trees. Then 100 metres further and it’s nothing but birdsong.
The outer shell of the cabins is spruce and has a very nice, natural grey colour. It resembles the volcanic rocks that are typical of the area. Somehow the cabins fit very well within the natural landscape — they just match. They are roundish but not completely round, like pebbles sitting in the grass.
The atmosphere of the cabins is minimalistic. I spent 14 years in Finland and have experience with Nordic design. It’s that simplicity and practicality and a lot of wood. The whole cabin is made of wood, with a huge glass door at the front facing the surrounding nature. Each of the cabins is aligned so you don’t see any other cabins, creating a sense of intimacy.
To you personally, what is so special about The Rock Cabins?
It’s far enough from Budapest (two hours’ drive) but near Balaton (30 minutes from the lake). The Upper Balaton region has everything you need — gastronomy, outdoor activities, culture — and yet, it gives you the feeling that you are in the middle of nowhere.
The site of The Rock Cabins used to be a village, so you can see the ruins of old buildings. Today, it combines modern design (you have all the gadgets you need) and being out in nature. We also try to elevate the stay with food you’re unlikely to get anywhere else.
Even if you’re not interested in any of that, it’s a great place to have fun with your loved one. There’s the jacuzzi and a comfortable bed and the feeling of intimacy far away from everything. You don’t feel as though there is another soul nearby.
