Man Transforms Abandoned 700-Year-Old Sandstone Cave into a Luxurious Home

If living in a cave has never appealed to you, The Rockhouse Retreat might make you change your tune. Located in rural Worcestershire, England, this unique locale is built into a Triassic sandstone escarpment near the Wyre Forest. As a residence, it has a long history–the cave was occupied for over 700 years before it was abandoned in 1962 and reverted back to its natural state. In 2015, enthusiast and owner Angelo Mastropietro spent $230,000 to restore it into a romantic, secluded getaway.

The 65-square-meter (700-square-foot) Rockhouse blends contemporary style and comfort with the tranquility of nature. Its interior features a number of luxurious upgrades that you wouldn't expect in a cavern. This includes: a walk-in “rain forest” shower; heated floors in the shower/dressing room; a fully-equipped kitchen; complimentary Wi-Fi; a music-docking station, and a Nespresso machine. In addition, there is an outdoor kitchen terrace with a gas grill and fire pit.

Mastropietro's retreat is well-situated for those that want to spend time exploring nature. The area boasts many outdoor attractions, such as 40 kilometers (about 25 miles) of walking trails and the West Midlands Safari Park. Guests can also visit the historic riverside town of Bewdley to enjoy its commercial offerings.

The Rockhouse Retreat is currently available to book through its website.

The Rockhouse Retreat: Website | Facebook
via [Laughing Squid]

Sara Barnes

Sara Barnes is a Staff Editor at My Modern Met, Manager of My Modern Met Store, and co-host of the My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast. As an illustrator and writer living in Seattle, she chronicles illustration, embroidery, and beyond through her blog Brown Paper Bag and Instagram @brwnpaperbag. She wrote a book about embroidery artist Sarah K. Benning titled 'Embroidered Life' that was published by Chronicle Books in 2019. Sara is a graduate of the Maryland Institute College of Art. She earned her BFA in Illustration in 2008 and MFA in Illustration Practice in 2013.
Become a
My Modern Met Member
As a member, you'll join us in our effort to support the arts.
Become a Member
Explore member benefits

Sponsored Content