The New Frontier of Short-Term Rentals and Hospitality

There’s a lot of buzz in the hospitality world right now around landscape hotels. And for good reason. Big box hospitality brands like Aman and lots of boutique operators are trying to break in, which signals that it’s the new frontier in short-term stays.

But there’s a big misconception about these properties. Because landscape + cabins does not equal “landscape hotel.”

Take a look at this landscape-focused micro-hospitality resort we designed in West Virginia. There are 11 units, each of which is carefully positioned on the sloped land to provide a sense of privacy. But there are boardwalks and shared outdoor amenities tying them together to foster social connection when it’s welcome.

Windows are positioned for seclusion, but also for views and natural light. Units are clustered to appeal to larger groups but fitted with separate outdoor spaces for secluded relaxation. This is a true landscape hotel. It lets the land lead the design, and it appeals just as much to a couple looking for a quiet getaway as it does to a larger group that needs space to sprawl.

You can’t just slap a bunch of structures on a parcel, open up bookings, and expect to create an unforgettable experience. You need the landscape to be the draw but also the mechanism that lets the property work on multiple levels.