Opportunuty
Hospitality Solutions, a property development and management group based in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, hired Windham Designs to revitalize the Gatlinburg Inn’s website and branding. In 2013, the Maples family, the inheritors of this historic 1937 property, had the opportunity to sell the Inn for development into a modern hotel, restaurant, or another moonshine distillery. Instead, they chose the road less traveled. Passing on the opportunity to turn a quick and easy fortune, they decided to reinvest, restore, and preserve the Inn for future generations to enjoy.
Solution
Our creative process began with an immersive site visit, allowing us to absorb the Inn’s rich heritage and unique atmosphere. We meticulously documented everything—from original documents and historic photographs to forgotten closets brimming with artifacts—uncovering a true time capsule from 1930s Gatlinburg. This deep research became the foundation for our creative direction.
We designed a logo featuring a period-appropriate slab-serif font and an etched illustration inspired by a historic photo of the original Inn. The website showcases the property’s story through engaging copy and evocative photography, while seamlessly integrating modern reservation functionality and a custom sales promotion section that empowers managers to build and promote offerings directly on the site.
Results
Today, the fully restored Historic Gatlinburg Inn welcomes guests at record levels, a testament to the power of thoughtful preservation and strategic branding.
We designed a logo featuring a period-appropriate slab-serif font and an etched illustration inspired by a historic photo of the original Inn. The website showcases the property’s story through engaging copy and evocative photography, while seamlessly integrating modern reservation functionality and a custom sales promotion section that empowers managers to build and promote offerings directly on the site.
Results
Today, the fully restored Historic Gatlinburg Inn welcomes guests at record levels, a testament to the power of thoughtful preservation and strategic branding.
