Right Time, Right People: How Common E.S.G. Goals Manifest Unique New Wellness Venture in Real Estate and Hospitality
Welcome to the first in a series of VIRTU Resort & Residences Executive Stories
Front and centre on the wellness architecture stage, the spotlight for global excellence in sustainable wellness projects shines on Alberto Apostoli, recipient of the 2023 & 2024 World Sustainable Architect Awards and founder of Studio Apostoli an international and multi-awarded international design and consulting atelier, based in Italy.
The forward-thinking architect’s modern and eco-ethical designs set him apart, garnering more than 60 prestigious awards for him and his team. The most recent accolade is the platinum win for the Architecture and Design 2024 award in the “Architecture Hospitality & Hotel Design Completed / Professional Category” for the Green Lodge project at Terme Preistoriche Resort and Spa in Montegrotto Terme.
This impressive achievement is just one reason why Apostoli is the ideal professional connection for VIRTU Resort & Residences Founder & CEO, Sandi Lesueur. On a mission to design, build, and operate luxury sustainable wellness hospitality real estate differently, Sandi, a Vancouver-based wellness branding expert, set out six years ago to advance the sector for a competitive advantage with a commitment to sustainability and exceptional design, with E.S.G. mandates and protection of People, Planet, Place, and Prosperity in the respected regions where we build.
“I began my journey six years ago, and soon after started to work with a variety of individuals including Joseph Levey, a partner at Helbraun Levey law firm in New York City, says Sandi.
“And I soon began to further perfect the business and brand. I was driven to create a wellness real estate and hospitality model that focused on mind, body, and soul because my sister suffers from Regional Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. This is my WHY? for starting VIRTU.”
The Connection with Alberto Apostoli
In the search for an architect who could excel in sustainability and culture, Sandi found a perfect match in Alberto.
Serendipity struck thanks to a mutual acquaintance, a highly respected, connected and important voice in the world of design and tourism as a former successful magazine editor.
One vital introduction led to another.
“VIRTU is thanks to people connecting people – all around the world – united by a shared vision and goal to design, build, and operate differently to protect our environment and preserve local wellness practices,” says Sandi.
“When Alberto and I first met, we were united by a common belief in planetary, cultural, and human well-being and a steadfast dedication to E.S.G. (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles. One Zoom meeting led to the next, and our shared endeavour began in earnest – through the trials of COVID and all of the sleepless, start-up, boot-strapped challenges of modern business – with the executives living in different continents.”
Beyond borders and across time zones and over the years, the genesis of VIRTU took hold and shape on common ground that transcended the traditional through trust and curiosity.
Rallying Global Talent and Impact Investors for E.S.G Impact and Excellence
A growing team shared Alberto and Sandi’s excitement for the concept of creating a sanctuary that would benchmark sustainability standards, embracing Indigenous wellness methods, while utilizing local resources and materials. Of note, establishing partnerships with E.S.G.-compliant suppliers is a meaningful mandate for Sandi as a member of the HOTEC Advisory Board and recently appointed Chair of CleanTech Alliance Hospitality Real Estate Cluster.
Sandi and Alberto’s approach encompasses ground-up wellness hospitality real estate developments, lifestyle-medicine services, and local cultural experiences both on- and off-site. They place priority on building a healthy and vibrant community for employees with housing, training, and the opportunity for professional growth.
Together, envisioning the potential tangible impacts of their sustainable practices on local communities marks significant milestones in the team’s shared and continued journey.
Their ambition to construct a wellness resort and hospitality real estate business with community importance and giveback is enriched by the wisdom of regional and global experts, funded by impact investors aware of the United Nations’ sustainable development goals.
“To better the planet, reveal cultural nuances through pared-down designs, and create moments that manifest in health not just for guests, but also for employees, communities, and the greater green and blue world brings purpose to my work,” says Alberto. “It is in this confluence that the appeal of VIRTU moves.”
Alberto’s gentle manner, stalwart professionalism, and joy when presented with an opportunity to collaborate on important work resonated with Sandi and further inspired the team. Over time, the VIRTU vision was furthered by collaborations with hand-picked global teammates and suppliers focused on rigorous E.S.G. standards that are measured and shared with stakeholders.
“Simply because the planet can no longer wait for dramatic change, we began and continue to move forward with diligence and unwavering commitment,” says Sandi.
One of the most profound aspects of their shared journey has been connections with Indigenous healers and leaders like VIRTU’s Chief Indigenous Liaison Professor Cori Derikson and multiple Indigenous healers and Western medical practitioners with a focus on Indigenous medicine. These engagements provide invaluable insights into the cultural and environmental nuances of the land, emphasizing the importance of Indigenous wisdom in promoting wellness and environmental stewardship.
Experienced Leadership
Sandi has 30 years of experience in creating brands as well as sustainable wellness products working with the world’s top chemists and physicians to the highest standards and following environmental and social guidelines. This approach supports local economies and adds to the richness of projects, defining the future of luxury as natural, bespoke, and impactful.
Alberto’s emphasis on sustainable building and design aligns perfectly with Sandi’s vision.
Their collaboration doesn’t stop with VIRTU. They are working with multiple other international specialists and universities to encourage new ideas, to create white papers and clinical trials, and to ensure future generations can further their sustainability work. As such they align as mentors for future generations.
They are also forging a supplier partnership to manage VIRTU spa operations through another of Alberto’s businesses, Armonia.
Innovation As the Lifeblood of Collaboration
By incorporating the latest advancements in lifestyle medicine, renewable energy, sustainable design, and authentic community-influenced operations, they are crafting a resort experience that is both luxurious and environmentally sound. Their strategic partnerships allow them to stay at the forefront of sustainable innovation, setting new standards in the industry.
“An extremely rare opportunity to develop an accelerator project with the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance will further highlight the importance of building and operating differently while helping to share information, collaborating with other hospitality brands striving for planetary change,” says Sandi.
“From a hotel founder and visionary perspective, the importance of working with the right people to build an international team cannot be overstated. The success of our ventures hinges on the expertise, passion, and alignment of our stakeholders and investors. By meticulously selecting those who share our commitment to sustainability, innovation and measured E.S.G. goals we ensure that every project not only meets but exceeds expectations. Our business model is designed for success due to the strategic locations we choose, the cutting-edge designs we implement, and the unique, high-value experiences we offer. Timing is everything, and by harnessing the current momentum towards eco-conscious luxury and wellness tourism, we are positioned to capitalize on emerging market trends, setting new industry standards and achieving unparalleled growth.” - Sandi Lesueur
Looking to the Future
Sandi and Alberto are excited about the transformative cultural experiences and authentic wellness treatments that VIRTU Resort & Residences will offer. The luxury resort’s breathtaking international locations, envisioned as legacy projects, promise to deliver life-changing experiences for guests.
Their collaborations with the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance and FuturePlus, a sustainability measurement tool, and the CleanTech Alliance are examples of organizations in place to ensure continual improvement and the establishment of new benchmarks in E.S.G. and renewable energy developments in hospitality real estate with a goal for net -zero.
Guests can expect a unique blend of luxury and sustainability, with every detail meticulously curated to enhance their well-being and connection to local culture while protecting the planet.
All of this was born through openness, human connections, and a compelling "why."
Alberto, Sandi and the team’s journey at VIRTU is a testament to the transformative power of global collaboration. Their story underscores the significance of diverse perspectives, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to sustainability. Their innovative approach and dedication to E.S.G. principles set a new standard for the industry, showcasing the immense potential of global collaboration in crafting a more sustainable future while building a profitable business model. Importantly, this includes funding of each resort through impact investors who support E.S.G. mandates.
Let’s Connect
We invite you to follow VIRTU, engage with us on LinkedIn and contact us here.