KURULA´S RESORT
Kurula’s Resort is an experiential log hotel located in Pyhätunturi.
Before construction
Originally, there was a small 16-square-meter lakeside cabin on the plot, which didn’t even have running water. The small cabin did, however, have electricity, a fireplace, two bunk beds, a sauna, and a kitchen. Since the 1970s, friends from all over the world had visited. Their experiences were similar: nature, peace, and privacy. Even today, Kurula’s Resort aims to offer the same to its visitors. Our theme “Hidden from Time” is meant to give visitors a sense of calm and wonder in the middle of ancient fell nature, by the beautiful shore of Lake Pyhäjärvi.
How did it all begin? Where did the idea and dream of building come from?
Initially, the plan was to build a semi-detached house for personal use. However, I later had the opportunity to apply for EU funding, provided that the conditions for profitable business were met. This was a good starting point to develop the resort project.
Everything was ready to start, but the pandemic put the project on hold. Nevertheless, we didn’t give up, and by the end of 2021, we managed to restart the project. Actual construction began in spring 2022, and the buildings were completed in winter 2023. At that point, not everything was entirely finished, but we were able to test our operations well. Now, after the first full fiscal year, the business has started almost as expected.
The primary target group for Kurula’s Resort is international customers and a pre-packaged experience. During the off-season, the secondary target group consists of resort guests who can independently make use of the apartment’s amenities, the surrounding nature, activities, and so on.
How and why did you choose Polar Life Haus?
I compared two other suppliers in addition to Polar Life Haus, who were familiar to me through my networks. We quickly established a good relationship with Polar Life Haus, which had a major positive impact on the project. I hadn’t been involved in similar projects before, so getting help and support was crucial. The salesperson was a great help, and it was easy to work with him.
What do you value in construction?
Quality, reliable timelines, and support. I recommend paying particular attention to these three factors. Trust with the house supplier is a significant advantage in large projects. It’s important to get help when needed and to have a natural working relationship, without a purely commercial atmosphere. The materials and their quality are also important to ensure that the building will stand the test of time.
After the project was completed
What is the best thing about your property and why?
The overall concept. The building is modern and fits beautifully into the environment. Our customers have also provided feedback on this. When I walk down from the hotel to the shore, I often look back at the hotel and restaurant, take a picture, and think, “Wow, how amazing this place is.” It shows that the project was successful and that the result is what I hoped for.
How satisfied are you with Polar Life Haus’ contribution to the project on a scale of 1-10 (1 = not satisfied, 10 = extremely satisfied)?
Of course, a one followed by a zero. So definitely a ten!
What do you think of the product’s quality?
The product is of very high quality. For me, quality also includes the installation, technical features, windows, and other details. Considering the overall picture, all these aspects from Polar Life Haus are of excellent quality. Even a year later, the windows haven’t shown any signs of movement. This says a lot about the installation, craftsmanship, and the quality of the product.
How would you describe your collaboration with Polar Life Haus?
Excellent customer service. I can’t do anything but recommend them. The salesperson and architect were, of course, central to the project, but even in other areas of the project, everything was handled very well. We always received help, and the best solutions were sought.
How does it feel now that the project is complete? What was the journey like from dream to reality?
The journey has been amazing and at the same time challenging. A project like this always requires significant efforts and involves many different factors. There are always ups and downs, and this project was no exception. Despite the challenges, I’m happy with the overall outcome, especially with the fact that our business model seems to be working as planned. I’ve learned a lot during the project, and the desire to learn more is still very much present. I guess the dream came true.
How would you describe Polar Life Haus, the company/product, in a few words?
A skilled and professional company. Project management, customer service, and quality formed a cohesive whole, and it worked beautifully.
What advice would you give to future builders?
Well, I’d advise not to focus solely on price competition between house suppliers. Especially in larger projects, it’s about much more than just the price. It’s important to be able to trust the company and the person with whom you’ll be working on such an important project for the next one or two years. The contribution of the salesperson and architect is significant. Choose a company with extensive experience in the field. A company that has seen the ups and downs and has been involved in developing the product and the industry is always a safe choice. Development drives the company forward and is a sign that they listen to the customer. This builds trust in the company. Additionally, the supplier’s network is important. Polar Life Haus had an extensive network, and it greatly contributed to the success of the project.
Heikki Nuutila, CEO, Kurula’s
Architectural design: Janne Kantee, Architect SAFA
Photos: Hans Koistinen