Creating memorable spaces takes more than just good design – it demands vision, strategy, and attention to detail. The event industry continues to evolve, with guests expecting more immersive and shareable experiences than ever before. Gianluca Sardo, president of The Glasshouse, brings his 15-year journey through high-end hospitality to bear on this challenge. Having worked with luxury brands across two continents, Gianluca shares his practical approach to venue transformation that goes beyond aesthetics.
Creating a Brand with Soul
First things first – you need people to remember who you are. And that takes more than just a fancy sign out front. Gianluca cuts right to the heart of it: “You need to craft a name, a logo, and visual language that tell a story and evoke emotion on your clients or on your audience.”
This isn’t just about picking pretty colors. It’s about building something that sticks. “Define your tone and style across every touch point, website, social, staffing and everything else around,” he explains. The days of venues getting by on location alone are over. Gianluca hammers this point home: “You are not just a venue, you are a brand with soul.” Without that soul, you’re just another room for rent.
Elevating Guest Experience
Walk into a truly great venue and something feels different. Gianluca knows this feeling doesn’t happen by accident. “Make every moment memorable, from the entrance scent to custom lighting to personalized hospitality,” he insists. These details might seem small, but they add up to something powerful. After years running operations at places like Spring Place, Gianluca has seen how service can make or break a venue’s reputation. He pushes venues to go beyond the basics: “Elevate the basics, deliver theater, not just service.” The goal? “Leave guests feeling like they are being a part of something, something truly special.” Not just satisfied – transformed.
Designing for Social Moments
Let’s face it – we live in a world where events live twice: once in person and again online. Smart venue operators use this to their advantage. “Design photo-worthy moments into your space. Showcase shareable details that planners and guests want to post,” Gianluca advises. These aren’t happy accidents – they’re strategic decisions. He takes it a step further: “Partner with creatives.” Why? Because creatives bring followers, and followers bring attention. “When your venue becomes the backdrop to iconic content, it marks itself,” he explains. No marketing budget in the world beats thousands of guests happily sharing your space on their own feeds.
Gianluca’s career spans two continents and countless successful venues. His approach isn’t theoretical – it’s battle-tested. The formula sounds simple: distinctive brand, memorable experience, shareable moments. The execution is anything but. For venue operators looking to up their game, Gianluca makes himself available. “If you want to know more about it, just follow me on LinkedIn or check my website at gianlucasardo.com,” he offers. His parting words sum up his confidence: “See you soon at the next big event.” Not just any event – the next big one. That’s the difference his approach makes.
In a business where everyone claims to offer something special, Gianluca shows there’s still room to stand out. Not with gimmicks or massive budgets, but with smart, intentional choices that resonate with guests long after they’ve gone home. Follow Gianluca Sardo on LinkedIn for more insights into creating unforgettable spaces.
