Modernity rooted in tradition. How did it all begin?
Things could have gone very differently. When Mateusz began his studies in Computer Science and Econometrics at AGH University in 2012, his plan was to become a data scientist. Had he followed that path, he might now be working at a cutting-edge tech startup or a multinational corporation. But, as the saying goes, you can take a man out of Podhale but you can’t take Podhale out of a man. And during his studies, an idea began to take shape—one that led him back to something he had known intimately since childhood.
Folklore and craftsmanship
The soil in Podhale isn’t particularly fertile—better suited for grazing than for farming—which is why for centuries, the highlanders of this region have been known for raising sheep. Still, that alone rarely provided enough to support an entire family. So, over time, craftsmanship became the second pillar of local life.
With wood in abundance, communities in the shadow of the Tatra Mountains became known for their woodworking skills—carpentry, joinery, and coopering. Crafted by highlanders with great care, ornate detail, and a love for tradition, everyday objects became small works of art. It's no wonder then that in Podhale, folk art is now inseparable from daily life. You simply can't think of this region without thinking of its folklore.
My best childhood memories from Podhale? Music and highlander traditions. Hands down. I was in a folk group: I danced, sang, traveled for performances. I grew up in a community where folklore and local values were deeply respected. To this day, when I hear highlander music, I get goosebumps—sometimes even a tear in my eye. It’s something that stays with you. And then there’s the carefree life: haymaking, helping my grandparents with the sheep, village life in tune with nature. Those were beautiful times.
First encounters with wood
The Haberny family, from the Ciche (in English Quiet) village, were very much part of this woodworking tradition. In the carpentry workshop founded by father Edward, Mateusz and his brother Marcin gradually began to lend a hand. While helping out, they were unknowingly laying the foundation for what would one day become their own brand.
At first it was just small stuff: arranging parquet tiles, sanding, painting. Over time, I got to do more and more, until I started making things of my own. Dad always said, ‘If you're going to do something, do it right—or not at all.’ That really stuck with me.
Humble and unusual beginnings
In his second year of university, juggling daytime lectures and evening work shifts, Mateusz started dreaming of launching his own company. He wanted to combine his passion for technology (which had brought him to Kraków in the first place) with his childhood memories from Ciche and his deep connection to highlander craftsmanship. The result? A wooden iPhone docking station—the first product designed and built by the future founder of Oakywood.
It looked pretty funny in the beginning. I’d bring the products to Kraków and literally store them in a wardrobe in my rented apartment. I had no workspace, so I was packing orders on my knees. On weekends I’d head back home to build more in my dad’s workshop—then return to Kraków for classes. It was a cycle: lectures Monday through Friday, work in the evenings, production and logistics on the weekends.
The hardest part was juggling studies, a job, and getting Oakywood off the ground. Sometimes I honestly didn’t know whether I should attend class or fulfill orders. And, of course, I didn’t have the right equipment, the space, or the experience... Running a mini 'factory' out of a closet doesn’t exactly make for smooth logistics. But every setback taught me something. And even when it got tough, I knew this was it—this was the path I wanted to follow.
As the wooden accessories began gaining popularity and sales picked up, logistics and production became more demanding. Mateusz realized he needed help and the first person who came to mind was his brother Marcin, who quickly became his business partner.
From the Tatra Mountains to the world: a global brand
Some companies start small, conquering local markets before even thinking of going international. Mateusz chose a different route. From day one, Oakywood set its sights on the global stage, confidently reaching out to customers around the world.
And while the company grew beyond our borders, it stayed grounded in its core values—craftsmanship, sustainability, and respect for nature. At Oakywood, global ambition walks hand-in-hand with deep-rooted traditions. We hold fast to our heritage, yet we always look ahead—shaping the future with every piece we create.
Blog.
Modernity rooted in tradition. How did it all begin?
Your space, your story: Michael Kagerer
How to prevent tech neck? Our latest solution
A feminine space, a space for women – what does that really mean?
Your space, your story: Ali Abdaal
Create a workspace that helps you take better care of yourself
How to expand your space? New solutions at Oakywood
Your space, your story: Jorge Powell
