Raised in St. Louis, Missouri, in an EconoLodge motel that his parents managed, Atit Jariwala quite literally, grew up in the hospitality industry. After pursuing his own interests, earning a Bachelor’s in Economics from Yale and an MBA from Stanford, Jariwala found himself still drawn to the industry and its tangible impact on people’s lives.
Now, as the founder of Bridgeton Holdings—the full-service real estate development group behind properties like New York City’s Walker Hotels and the motel-turned-luxe oceanfront property Marram Montauk—Jariwala is creating his own brand of hospitality.
When did you know you wanted to work in hospitality?
I grew up in an EconoLodge motel [in St. Louis, Missouri] that my parents managed. I was sort of born into the business. Growing up in a hotel made me see all facets of the hospitality industry and learn about customer experience. I knew I wanted to continue to create something that made visitors feel at home.
What are some of your earliest design memories?
My early memories of hotel design were homogenous as my family usually stayed in economy inns when traveling. Much of the design I was exposed to didn’t add to the experience of the trips or stays. As I got older and started experiencing better properties with more thoughtful design, I realized the value in splurging for quality finishes and small touches.
What was the first hotel you worked on?
My first hotel in New York was a limited-service property that was affiliated with a hotel brand. I realized that many guests wanted something more special than the monotonous design and offerings of a national brand. By definition, brands are trying to provide customers a standard experience across their properties, which can feel generic. I did transition that hotel into an independent hotel, but admittedly, it did not have the best design. It was, however, my first taste in designing a hotel room and a guest experience. After that, it was very hard to step back from being deeply involved with design.
Which project are you most proud of?
Marram Montauk [in New York]. I was able to acquire a rundown motel in an area that few people understood. Financing for projects like this is tough for most buyers. It was particularly challenging due to the local regulations in Montauk and that we were bringing in a lot of change, which people are always a bit averse to. We were able to get it done, and the town of Montauk was pleased with the result.
Most challenging part of the job?
Balancing desires with value engineering. Early on, I used to get upset when bids came back, and I couldn’t afford a finish or a layout that I had fallen in love with. Now, it is sort of fun designing around challenges. I expect it now and learn to live with some sacrifices knowing we can be smart around a solution. Sometimes not being able to stick with the plan or original design leads to an even better result.
Most rewarding part of the job?
I love helping to create something that turns a simple trip into a memorable experience that [guests] want to come back to again and again.
What keeps you passionate?
I love that our industry is constantly evolving. Being on the pulse of that is important. At the same time, understanding what we’re good at is equally important. We’re always trying to create something long-lasting.
Best piece of advice you’ve been given?
If you don’t love what you do, then don’t do it. I could have built a career around building hotels that are brand associated. It is a lot easier to do since the brand controls the playbook and financing. How boring is it to build off someone else’s playbook? I’ll chart my own course.
Dream project?
Rebuilding Calistoga Ranch in California. [It was burned down in the Glass wildfire in 2020.] The location and landscape make it a dream project to create something truly special.
What do you want it to say on your tombstone?
He never wasted a minute.
Check out some of Bridgeton Holdings’ properties, and get to know the rest of Hospitality Design’s 2022 Wave of the Future class.
