5 minute read
Reimagining Hospitality: Kabn's Sustainable Vision
Amber Pledge, Co-Founder of Kabn Company, spoke to International Glamping Business on how the company is reimagining hospitality with luxurious, offgrid experiences on the shores of Loch Fyne, Scotland and the transformative power of regenerative travel.
Q: Can you tell us about the inspiration behind Kabn and how the concept was developed?
Our journey to founding Kabn was inspired by a deep love of nature and transformative travel experiences that shaped our vision and values. In particular, our travels across Japan, Bhutan, India, and Africa taught us that being off-grid and remote does not limit luxury, but enhances it.
At that time, there were no European hospitality brands offering such experiences with a modern aesthetic. Seeing this gap in the market, we decided to create Kabn in Scotland, a region known for its stunning and wild landscapes, excellent transport links and strong tourism appeal. Our growing awareness of the environmental impact of conventional tourism also motivated us to envision a retreat that prioritises sustainability.
These experiences and insights came together to form a clear vision: to develop a network of ecofriendly Kabns in remote locations that provide luxurious accommodation while championing sustainability.
Q: What distinguishes Kabn’s offerings from other luxury outdoor accommodations?
It’s our commitment to delivering an exceptional guest experience through highquality amenities, meticulous attention to detail and a strong focus on sustainability.
Each Kabn is designed with a deep respect for nature and a dedication to luxury. Our accommodations are carefully crafted using sustainable materials that blend seamlessly with their surroundings, and we prioritise eco-friendly choices without compromising on comfort. From luxurious rainfall showers and high quality, organic linens to curated interiors featuring natural materials – every detail is chosen to provide both comfort and a connection to the environment.
We strive to bridge the gap between traditional short-term rentals and hotels by offering a personalised WhatsApp concierge service. This allows us to assist guests with any inquiries during their stay, whether it’s booking restaurants, arranging taxis or addressing any other needs. This approach ensures the convenience and attentive service typical of high-end hotels, combined with the unique, home-like experience of a short-term rental.
Q: How does Kabn incorporate sustainable practices in its operations?
Sustainability is at our core. Our commitment extends from the pre-fabricated method of construction (which produces less waste and less disturbance on site) to eco-friendly vegan wash products. Even our septic solution is made out of recycled coconut husks! Our goal is to build cabins with minimal environmental impact, while also inspiring guests to protect the breathtaking landscapes around them.
We are equally dedicated to supporting the local community, partnering with local businesses and individuals for supplies and services, as well as promoting local enterprises to our guests. By fostering these connections, we aim to create a mutually beneficial relationship and encourages a deeper engagement with the area.
“Our design philosophy is about creating a seamless blend between architecture and nature, where the Kabn becomes a natural extension of its surroundings.”
Q: Kabn is known for its innovative design. Can you walk us through the process of designing your modular units?
Our design process is driven by a desire to create truly bespoke Kabns that blend seamlessly into their natural settings, rather than relying on cookie-cutter, off-the-shelf solutions. We believe that every location has its unique charm and character.
Before any design work begins, we spend time getting to know the environment; its topography, natural features and seasonal changes. This informs every aspect of our design process, ensuring that each unit not only fits harmoniously within its surroundings but also maximises the views and natural light unique to that setting.
For example, one of our Kabns is designed in a portrait orientation to nestle between trees, allowing guests to feel truly immersed in nature, whilst another Kabn features a landscape orientation with panoramic views over Loch Fyne, providing a wide, expansive connection to the environment.
Ultimately, our design philosophy is about creating a seamless blend between architecture and nature, where the Kabn becomes a natural extension of its surroundings.
Q: What challenges did you face in the development and manufacturing of your modular units?
Developing and manufacturing our modular Kabns came with its own set of challenges, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, which brought about unforeseen obstacles at nearly every stage of the process.
While prefabrication typically allows for a more controlled and efficient build process, the restrictions in place during COVID-19 made this far more complex. We were unable to visit the manufacturing site during the critical build phase due to travel restrictions and lockdowns which meant we had to rely heavily on remote communication from our architect. This lack of physical oversight created challenges in ensuring every detail was aligned with our vision and standards. The entire supply chain was also affected, resulting in longer lead times and extended delays in our timeline.
These challenges tested our flexibility, patience and problem-solving skills, but they also reinforced our commitment to quality and innovation. Despite the hurdles, we managed to stay true to our vision.
Q: The glamping market has seen significant growth in recent years. How has Kabn positioned itself within this evolving market?
Kabn has positioned itself at the premium end of the cabin market. While the glamping market has grown significantly, we saw an opportunity to elevate the experience beyond the typical offerings and cater to discerning guests who seek both luxury and a deep connection to nature.
Our Kabns are crafted to provide an experience that goes beyond the traditional glamping model. We have deliberately chosen to avoid the more “rustic” approach and instead offer modern, off-grid accommodations that blend seamlessly with their natural surroundings, offering a sense of understated luxury with ecofriendly amenities to ensure guests enjoy comfort and style without compromise.
Our commitment to sustainability also sets us apart. Every element of our retreats is designed with the environment in mind.
