In the historic St Leonards on Sea, Sussex, England, a place with timeless heritage, classic Victorian architecture, history, and character, Beach Haus doesn’t just catch your attention; it piques your curiosity. That ‘wow’ moment when some unique feature in the description, the expertly taken photograph, or the unique mission statement makes you think, “Oh, I’d love to stay there.”
Sarjan Ram and his team masterfully combine the creative world of art with the welcoming nature of a historic English seaside resort frequented by the Royal Family in the 19th Century. They have created a gallery, award-winning accommodation, a philanthropic endeavor, and a thriving business.
“I’m from Oxford and have always been surrounded by stunning architecture. I developed an appreciation for Victorian townhouses, and while visiting St Leonards in the early 2000s, the Bloomsbury architecture blew me away. The high, luscious white walls are incredibly spacious and lend themselves well to showcasing artwork like an art gallery”.
In vacation rentals, standing out requires more than a comfortable stay—it’s about creating an experience. Beach Haus by Sea seamlessly blends art and hospitality, offering guests a curated experience. Through its partnership with Smoobu, Beach Haus by Sea has combined a one-of-a-kind creative experience with best-in-class vacation management analytics.
More than a place to stay, Beach Haus is a sanctuary for global artists to collaborate, create, and inspire, producing works that transcend cultural and artistic boundaries. Their approach to hospitality is unlike anything else in the industry, and it was fascinating to hear how Smoobu helps them bring this trailblazing vision to life.
I am passionate about the arts, and Beach Haus enabled me to pursue my creative passions while developing a unique business model. The recognition we have received has been beyond anything we imagined”.
The Vision: A Fusion of Creativity & Experience
I had the pleasure of speaking with Sarjan about Beach Haus’s story and its boutiques, Gensing Lodge, and The Church Retreat. We discussed his unique vision and how the team uses Smoobu to develop their strategy. Sarjan shared how Beach Haus was founded as a space where art, community, and hospitality intersect in a truly one-of-a-kind way.
Located in the seaside resort of St Leonards-on-Sea, Beach Haus by Sea boutique accommodation embodies a deep passion for art, culture, and community. Each property is more than just a place to stay; it is a gallery, an artistic retreat, and a unique experience.
The walls of Gensing Lodge and Church Retreat feature carefully curated pieces from global and local artists, creating an immersive experience that inspires guests while providing them with the warmth and comfort of high-quality accommodation.
Having carved out a niche, Beach Haus has developed a concept they can look to grow into the future. The operational solutions of managing multiple locations, handling bookings across various platforms, and ensuring smooth communication with guests became increasingly complex. This is where Smoobu has become the ideal partner for Beach Haus.
“The evolution of Smoobu has been fantastic, enabling our strategy with us as a long-term strategic partner. This is an ultra-competitive sector, so improvements in the fine margins are paramount”.
Unique Accommodations at Beach Haus Boutique Apartments
Both apartments, Gensing Lodge and Church Retreat, have very different vibes: Church Retreat feels calm and sacred, with a mix of classical and geometric influences, while Gensing Lodge has a bold, modern feel, blending technology, color, and science.
Despite their differences, both spaces are tied together by themes of geometry, nature, and spirituality, each interpreted in a way that suits its surroundings.
Gensing Lodge: Where Art & Innovation Collide
Gensing Lodge is a dynamic space that embodies the spirit of experimentation and modernity. Nestled in the heart of creativity, this immersive environment is a haven for innovation, combining bold colors, futuristic design, and cutting-edge technology.
This restored Victorian property retains its historic charm, with ornate fireplaces and stained glass, while offering a spacious, modern living area. It can accommodate up to six guests and includes a master bedroom, three double bedrooms, a fully equipped and stylized kitchen, and a contemporary bathroom.
Artistic Vision at Gensing Lodge
- Modern masterpieces: Abstract, experimental art that challenges conventions and sparks new ideas.
- Technological integration: Interactive installations and tech-driven designs that blur the boundaries of art and science.
- A vibrant palette: Electric hues and daring patterns that energize and inspire.
Gensing Lodge offers an unforgettable journey into the future of art. It provides guests with all the comforts they could need and simultaneously sparks their creative and curious sides.
Church Retreat: A Sanctuary for Reflection & Creativity
The Church Retreat is a tranquil oasis that blends timeless elegance with sacred artistry. Designed to evoke reverence and contemplation, this space is a tribute to the beauty of geometry, spirituality, and classical art.
Artistic Vision at Church Retreat
- Sacred Geometry: Intricate designs inspired by historical and spiritual symbolism.
- Nature’s Serenity: Art that mirrors the beauty of the natural world, fostering balance and harmony.
- Timeless Aesthetic: Warm, earthy tones and gold accents create a serene, meditative atmosphere.
The Church Retreat is a sympathetically restored Victorian sanctuary that blends classical influences, sacred geometry, and nature. It is designed for tranquility and features curated art, geometric motifs, and a meditative atmosphere.
Ideal for boutique escapes, it’s perfect for reading, cooking, and unwinding. Whether guests are searching for artistic inspiration or reflection, the Church Retreat is a testament to the enduring power of art to connect guests with the divine.
Smoobu: Enabling Creativity by Powering Digital Operations
Smoobu’s all-in-one vacation rental software provided Beach Haus by Sea a streamlined, efficient way to manage their properties. With Smoobu, they could now:
- Synchronize across multiple platforms, reducing double bookings and maximizing occupancy. Beach Haus is now pursuing direct bookings.
- Automate guest communication, ensuring a seamless and professional experience from booking to check-out.
- Maintain a personalized touch, using automated AI messaging to enhance guest interactions while feeling personal and heartfelt.
- Manage availability and pricing in real-time, adapting to seasonal trends effortlessly.
By offering multiple innovative solutions, Smoobu powers Beach Haus to focus on what truly matters: curating an unforgettable, artistic, and welcoming experience.
Balancing the various duties and responsibilities of vacation rental management can be tricky, but Smoobu aims to provide its customers with a comprehensive solution that helps them shine.
Standing Out in and Disrupting a Competitive Industry Together
The vacation rental market is saturated with options, but Beach Haus by Sea’s ability to blend creativity within beautiful Victorian townhouses gives it a distinct edge. Its unique brand identity, fueled by its passion for the arts, sets it apart.
With Smoobu handling the digital aspects of hotel management, Beach Haus by Sea can focus on developing the brand, strategy, and in-house creativity, collaborating with artists, and innovatively enhancing the guest experience.
Both Beach Haus by Sea and Smoobu seek to disrupt their respective industries. The Beach Haus by Sea is carving out a niche that blends the creative with the welcoming, offering guests a unique experience.
Likewise, Smoobu is transforming vacation rental management by simplifying complex operations and allowing hosts to focus on what makes them unique. Their shared ambition makes them a perfect match, driving innovation and setting new standards within their fields.
“We are disrupting the art and creative scene by changing how guests experience world-class gallery art. Furthermore, we are disrupting the creative advertising scene by leveraging digital open-source technology. We apply classically trained ad principals with technology with less regard to rigid classic brand-building activity.”
A Commitment to Community & Purpose-Driven Hospitality
Beyond providing a unique and memorable stay, Beach Haus by Sea is committed to making a difference. Most of their proceeds go to charitable causes, supporting artists, environmental initiatives, and community-driven projects. This philanthropic aspect adds another layer to their brand, attracting like-minded travelers who value purpose-driven stays.
With Smoobu ensuring smooth business operations, Beach Haus can allocate more resources to charitable initiatives, such as 1% for the Planet, Save the Children, Tree-Nation, and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, reinforcing their mission of blending hospitality, art, and social impact.
“Beach Haus is an example of how global corporations can benefit local communities more.” These higher principles deeply resonate with guests and contribute to a high good where everyone wins. A strong, purposeful business model”.
At Smoobu, we are proud to support organizations that align business success with philanthropy. By providing a reliable software, we aim to help Beach Haus by Sea increase occupancy, enhance guest experiences, and streamline operations—ultimately enabling them to further their charitable endeavors.
We believe technology should empower businesses to thrive and give back, and we are honored to be part of Beach Haus by Sea’s inspiring journey.
The Future: Expanding Creativity with Confidence
With Smoobu as a trusted partner, Beach Haus by Sea is poised for growth. Whether launching new artistic collaborations, further integrating sustainability initiatives, or innovatively enhancing the guest experience, they can do so confidently, knowing their operational foundation is solid.
By leveraging Smoobu’s technology, Beach Haus by Sea continues redefining vacation rentals as inspiring, welcoming, and socially responsible retreats that have a lasting impact on guests and the community.
A Valued Partnership
Beach Haus by Sea’s partnership with Smoobu is a testament to how technology can empower creativity. By handling the reducing complexities of vacation rentals, Smoobu has enabled Beach Haus by Sea to focus on its artistic vision and commitment to community impact. Together, they prove that hospitality can be an experience, a movement, and a driver for positive work.
Smoobu is committed to empowering hosts and vacation rental owners by giving them the tools and freedom to be unique and stand out from the crowd. In simplifying operations and removing administrative burdens, Smoobu allows hosts to focus on what makes their offerings unique, fostering a marketplace where individuality and innovation thrive.
Growing From
Strength to Strength
“We deeply value our relationship with Smoobu and genuinely enjoy partnering with you and how we have grown together. We are now in a strong place commercially and well set for the future should we wish to scale the Beach Haus Concept.”