Global Resort Design CEO: Stop Wasting Capex on the Wrong “Upgrades” | Scott LaMont E62

Boutique hotel investors often lose money in the same place: they renovate what’s visible, and ignore what actually drives guest behavior.In this episode, we talk about design as a business tool, not a decoration budget. The goal is simple: create a guest experience that feels intentional, sells itself, and supports your NOI, even when you’re operating without brand-level resources.My guest is Scott LaMont, CEO of EDSA, a globally recognized design and planning firm. Scott and his team work on hospitality projects worldwide, from master planning new destinations to repositioning existing resorts.You’ll hear:How to “program” spaces so they earn money at different times of dayWhat to look for during acquisition that signals hidden upsideWhy the lobby is not a pass-through, it’s a profit centerHow local partnerships create authenticity without big construction costsThe infrastructure investments (water, resiliency) owners regret skippingA practical way to use guest reviews as free due diligenceIf you’re graduating from Airbnb to your first hotel deal, this episode will help you avoid rookie capex mistakes and make design decisions that actually translate to revenue. Follow and share the Hotel Investor Playbook so more people can learn how to invest in hospitality assets the right way.About ScottScott LaMont is the CEO and Principal of EDSA, a globally recognized planning and landscape architecture firm where he has spent nearly three decades shaping award-winning destinations for brands like Four Seasons and The Ritz-Carlton. An expert in “deconstructed hospitality” and nature-focused design, Scott combines environmental stewardship with pragmatic business planning to drive long-term value and ROI for developers. He leads with a collaborative, human-centered philosophy that integrates emerging technologies like AI to create authentic, immersive guest experiences that connect people with place.Connect with Scott on Instagram or LinkedIn.Visit their website: https://www.edsaplan.com Learn how to use AI to underwrite faster, streamline operations, automate the busy work, and make better decisions. Start your 7-day free trial of the AI for CRE Collective here.Connect with Michael on Instagram or LinkedIn.Email Us at [email protected] the Hotel Investor Playbook InstagramInvest with Malama CapitalSubmit a deal