MC Fireside Chats - April 10th, 2024

MC Fireside Chats

In the recent episode of MC Fireside Chats, host Brian Searl brought together a panel of outdoor hospitality experts to delve into the innovations shaping the glamping industry. Brian was joined by recurring guests Zach Stoltenberg, Todd Wynne-Parry, Angele Miller, Chris Jeub, Alessandro van de Loo, and special guests Jeremy Budge and Gene Eidelman, each offering unique perspectives on the challenges and opportunities within the sector. Zach Stoltenberg, representing Clockwork, shared insights on the architectural challenges and innovations in designing glamping resorts. His focus on guest experience and the business perspective highlighted the importance of balance in creating unique yet practical glamping accommodations. Todd Wynne-Parry, from Horwath HTL, discussed the broader implications of hotel brands entering the glamping market. His analysis of the Hilton-AutoCamp partnership shed light on the evolving landscape of outdoor hospitality, where traditional hotel brands see value in the unique offerings of glamping. Angele Miller introduced Creekside R&R glamping, emphasizing the franchise model’s potential to standardize and elevate the glamping experience while respecting local cultures and designs. Her concerns about adapting structures to various climates and terrains underscored the industry’s need for versatile and resilient accommodations. Chris Jeub, owner of Monument Glamping, touched on the creative challenges faced by glamping developers in navigating zoning and building departments. His experiences underscore the industry’s ongoing struggle with regulatory frameworks and the need for innovative solutions that comply with local codes. Alessandro van de Loo shared his experiences operating glamping resorts in Europe, highlighting the potential for 3D printed accommodations to revolutionize the industry by offering scalable, eco-friendly, and customizable options for resort developers. Jeremy Budge, the founder of Backland, a luxury eco-resort in Arizona, detailed the development of custom-designed, code-compliant tents. His journey from Under Canvas to establishing his own resort illustrated the innovative spirit driving the glamping industry forward. Gene Eidelman presented Azure Printed Homes, a company specializing in 3D printed structures using recycled plastic. His vision for sustainable, efficient, and customizable construction offers a promising solution to the glamping industry’s demand for unique and environmentally friendly accommodations. The discussion also ventured into the regulatory challenges of introducing novel concepts like 3D printed homes and custom tents into the market. Both Jeremy Budge and Gene Eidelman shared their experiences navigating the complexities of building codes and permits, underscoring the need for regulatory flexibility to accommodate innovation. The panelists explored the cost implications of such innovations, particularly the expenses associated with testing and compliance. The conversation highlighted the financial hurdles of pioneering new construction methods and the potential for scale to mitigate these challenges. Angele Miller’s concerns about adapting glamping units to extreme climates, such as those in Atlantic Canada, pointed to the necessity of designing accommodations that can withstand a wide range of environmental conditions while preventing issues like condensation. The potential for 3D printing technology to provide customized solutions for diverse glamping locations was a recurring theme. The ability to tailor accommodations to specific sites and climates could revolutionize the way glamping resorts are developed, offering an unprecedented level of flexibility and customization. In closing, the episode underscored the glamping industry’s role as a crucible for construction and hospitality innovation. By embracing new technologies and designs, the sector can offer unique, sustainable, and memorable experiences, setting a new standard for outdoor hospitality and potentially influencing broader construction practices.