EVOLVE Lodging has collaborated with Becoming rentABLE and ELEV8 Architecture to launch the Accessible Retreat. This project introduces the first nationally Becoming rentABLE mobility certified Accessible Park Model accommodation. The collaboration addresses the need for accommodations catering to individuals with disabilities.
According to the CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics, nearly 70 million adults in the U.S. live with a disability that affects their daily activities. Additionally, demographic trends indicate a significant increase in the senior population, expected to grow by 30 million by 2030. In the context of short-term rentals, a mere 0.1% of the 1.5 million available rentals are classified as accessible, highlighting a critical gap in the market.
As mentioned in the company’s press release, the outdoor recreation industry has experienced growth, now representing a $1.1 trillion market and accounting for 2.2% of the U.S. GDP. As more Americans seek outdoor experiences, a substantial portion of potential customers has remained underserved due to a lack of accessible accommodations.
By introducing the Accessible Retreat, EVOLVE Lodging addresses this gap and empowers campground owners, RV resorts, and hotels to tap into a previously neglected market segment.
At the core of this initiative is the collaboration with Lorraine Woodward, co-founder and CEO of Becoming rentABLE. Becoming rentABLE employs a rigorous certification process based on 63 filters that assess various accessibility features beyond mere wheelchair access.
“Accessibility is not one-size-fits-all, and it is through our 63 Becoming rentABLE filters that people with disabilities have choices they never had before,” said Woodward. “We are excited to have designed a mobile unit that was created with accessibility as the priority, not an afterthought.”
Michelle Oliver, president of EVOLVE Lodging, also emphasized the importance of design in this collaboration. “In collaborating with Becoming rentABLE, we were able to make sure we have addressed every single design element thoroughly, in creating the best possible experience, with the widest applicability,” Oliver stated.
This partnership, combined with input from Julienne Dallara, Ms. Wheelchair California, and an advocate for accessibility, has been instrumental in shaping the project.
Dallara praised the commitment of EVOLVE Lodging to inclusivity, stating, “Working with EVOLVE Lodging is just an incredible and rewarding experience. Their passion and commitment, and love for collaboration, continues to amaze me.” This collaboration not only reflects a dedication to accessibility but also underscores a broader movement towards inclusivity within the outdoor hospitality industry, fostering an environment where everyone can enjoy outdoor experiences.
Randy Hendrickson, CEO of EVOLVE Lodging, also explained the vision behind this collaboration. “This collaboration is more than just about building accessible cabins; it’s about creating inclusive experiences for all individuals, enabling them to explore and enjoy superior accommodations without the inherent traditional barriers,” he said.
Featured image by Accessible Retreat via accessibleretreat.com
