Brody House: a rough-luxe aesthetic in the bohemian city of Budapest.
At Brody House, hospitality, design, art and music come together in a stylishly refurbished period building at budget prices. Still under the radar, this hip but homely hotel on the Pest side of the river is a favorite for low-key showbiz and media types. A multi-talented space, it has places to sleep for one night or one month, showcases work from international artists and musicians, whose pieces can be seen, heard (and bought) in the rooms and apartments as well as holds live events.
The hotel is a refurbished historic 19th century building – what could be more eco than reusing an existing period gem? But it’s not just a museum/gallery; thanks to its tireless owners, Brody House has become a social and artistic hub of the Hungarian capital. It’s also a private members club, with a stream of varied events from workshops, tastings, debates and readings to gigs, film screenings and magic shows – and guests can join in on the life of this regenerated boho mecca.
The eight guest rooms, named after the artists whose work hangs on their walls, are decorated to respect the original character (parquet floors, distressed walls, freestanding bathtubs), while adding an individual, contemporary-without-being-cold vibe. Home-designed and made furniture use recycled materials – headboards are made from old doors, and beams turned into beds.
If you want to hang out and meet the other guests, the club rooms have sofas, an honesty bar, and musical instruments for jamming sessions: a grand piano, a violin and a guitar. There’s no restaurant, but the in-house chef can rustle up simple meals and special dinners, as well as all-day breakfast, brunch at weekends, and afternoon tea.
When in Budapest:
You must immerse yourself in one of the world-famous public baths, which use the waters from natural thermal springs. Here are our top 5:
Szechenyi: Outdoor Neo-Baroque wonder; one of Europe’s largest bathing complexes.
Gellert: Art Nouveau furnishings, mosaics and stained glass windows.
Kiraly: Dates from the 16th century, during the Ottoman rule.
Rudas: Features octagonal pool dating from Turkish times.
Lukacs: Medicinal bath, swimming pool and park.
Rooms from $76 including tax, breakfast, and a free pass into the city’s artistic scene.
Images: Money Week; This Charming Home; Swoon Worthy; Hermes College
Places & Spaces is a travel guide that will inspire you to carve out a vacation on your calendar. All of the gorgeous locations and accommodations in our guide share our concern for the environment. From tent glamping to lavish built environments, fair warning, you’ll feel compelled to pack your suitcase.