As the planet has been grappling with environmental crises, NASA reports that Earth’s average surface temperature in 2020 tied with 2016 as the hottest year on record, underlining the rapid escalation of global warming.
Deforestation and the depletion of natural resources are intensifying these problems. Unsustainable farming methods, unchecked industrial development, and the destruction of forests have put an additional weight on the planet’s ecosystems.
As the world grapples with these mounting challenges, the urgency to adopt sustainable building practices has never been greater. The architecture and construction industries hold a critical role in the fight against environmental degradation since ethical building practices significantly reduce our carbon footprint.
Nowadays, having recognized the urgent call for change, worldwide architects, builders, and professionals in the tourism sector have increasingly been harnessing innovative technologies and materials to create structures that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also kind to the planet.
At the core of this new movement is Steven Garcia, founder of Empire Tours and Productions, whose name has become synonymous with his innovative blend of travel and sustainability.
Although he first gained recognition for transforming conventional, urban travel experiences into immersive and unforgettable cultural encounters infused with local authenticity, his passion and pivot toward sustainable architecture is what has truly been driving him forward.
In the face of global environmental challenges, Garcia’s decades-long experience in tourism allowed him to see an opportunity to contribute to the solution. Recognizing the potential of ethical building practices within the travel industry, particularly in luxury glamping, he partnered up with Airbnb and established a thoughtful venture – gorgeous glamping cabins – that combine his love for unique experiences with his commitment to preserving the environment.
“I’ve always believed that the foundation of any structure should be rooted in purpose,” Garcia says. “And what better purpose than to protect the very land it stands on?”
Nestled in the heart of the vibrant landscapes of Wisconsin, the Serenity Lodge is the perfect example of Garcia’s dedication to sustainable craftsmanship.
The aesthetic appeal of the lodge doesn’t lie just in its architectural finesse but, most importantly, in its materials. Meticulously crafted from 100-year-old forest firewood sourced from California, it has so far attracted countless visitors who wish to take in the natural views surrounding the lodge and witness first-hand the beauty of giving materials a second life.
As Garcia describes it, the timber’s ancient grains, full of complex patterns, whisper tales of once-thriving forests. As guests enter the space, they’re wrapped in an ambiance that echoes the steady pulse of nature’s cycles. “Every repurposed piece of wood tells a story, a history. By giving it new life, we not only celebrate its past but also ensure it has a sustainable future,” he shares.
Garcia’s commitment to sustainable building practices doesn’t end here. His passion has driven him to personally bring the wood to the sawmill and shape it himself in an effort to honor the land, try to preserve local history, and minimize environmental impact.
But, looking at the bigger picture behind Garcia’s efforts, the power of reclaimed materials has consistently shown immense potential in mitigating the harmful impact of construction. Using these materials not only diverts waste from landfills but also reduces the need for new resources, thus preserving energy and reducing emissions associated with extraction, processing, and transportation.
Reclaimed wood is prized for its unique character since old-growth timber is durable and less prone to warping. Aesthetically, it also makes sense, as it often comes from buildings that have outlived their original purpose, carrying a rich history and a quality that’s hard to find in newer lumber. Its age reveals not just years but centuries, adding an element of timeless beauty to any structure.
As industries worldwide seek to adopt eco-friendly practices, Steven Garcia himself has ambitious future plans. He dreams of erecting more lodges beyond the Midwest, hoping to inspire other professionals to put the planet ahead of profit.
As he says, “With every tick of the clock, the urgency for sustainable solutions grows stronger. We’re at a crucial crossroads, and our actions today will determine the world we leave for future generations.”
