When planning your dome—whether it’s for personal escapism or a profitable hospitality venture—the question remains: what type of toilet do I need for my dome? While personal dome enthusiasts might be more flexible with unconventional solutions, glamping operators must strike a balance between cost, guest satisfaction, and long-term ROI. In this article, we’ll break down three toilet options, ranked from the simplest to the most sophisticated, to help you choose the best solution for your dome property.
Outhouse
Overview
The outhouse is the most basic solution available. For personal use, a simple pit may suffice. However, when it comes to hospitality, presentation and guest experience become paramount. Check out this fancy outhouse!
Costs
- DIY Digging: Essentially free if you’re willing to dig a hole.
- Constructed Unit: Around $3,500 if you build a proper structure.
Pros
- Cost-Effective: Minimal upfront investment if opting for the simplest version.
- High ROI Potential: As seen with examples like Birchwood Luxury Camping, located in Port Perry, Ontario, where even basic outhouses can be transformed into attractive, premium-feeling amenities with clever design and presentation.
Cons
- Guest Perception: Even with stellar presentation, some guests may perceive an outhouse as less desirable compared to more modern solutions.
- Competitive Disadvantage: In a competitive market, a lack of modern facilities might turn potential guests toward competitors who offer more conventional options.
Verdict
For glamping entrepreneurs who can invest in innovative design and maintain high standards, an outhouse can offer an impressive ROI. However, if your competition is offering more refined toilet solutions, you might struggle to justify the choice to discerning guests.
Composting Toilet (or Other Non-Septic Systems)
Overview
A composting toilet provides an eco-friendly alternative that doesn’t rely on a septic system. This option can be particularly attractive to environmentally conscious guests.
How It Works
Composting toilets break down waste through a controlled aerobic process, converting it into compost. They eliminate the need for water and complex plumbing, making them a practical choice for off-grid or remote dome setups.
Costs
- Typically range from $1,500 to $8,000.
Pros
- Eco-Friendly: Minimizes water usage and can contribute to sustainable waste management practices.
- Cost Savings: Significantly cheaper than installing a full septic system.
- Installation Flexibility: Often easier to integrate into remote or off-grid locations.
Cons
- Maintenance Intensive: The biggest drawback is the ongoing maintenance required to keep the system running smoothly.
- Aesthetic Risks: For hospitality purposes, it might be better to have a clearly designated outhouse than a system that mimics a traditional toilet only for guests to later discover its true composting nature.
Verdict
Composting toilets remain a popular choice for many glamping sites. They offer a balance between functionality and environmental responsibility but require diligent maintenance to ensure a positive guest experience.
Traditional Toilet (Septic System)
Overview
A traditional toilet connected to a septic system is what many guests expect from modern accommodations. Northern Glamping offers a turn-key washroom built for glamping domes for a cost effective and luxurious build-out. For those aiming to provide a premium experience, this option can set your dome apart from the competition.
Costs
- Generally fall between $10,000 and $35,000.
Pros
- Guest Appeal: Delivers the familiar comfort of a traditional toilet, meeting guest expectations and enhancing overall satisfaction.
- Competitive Edge: In a market with increasing competition, a fully equipped dome with a traditional toilet can command higher occupancy and premium rates.
- Future-Proofing: Investing in this infrastructure now can prevent costly upgrades later, ensuring your facility remains competitive as guest standards evolve.
Cons
- High Upfront Investment: The significant initial expense may not be feasible for every operator.
- Permit and Maintenance Complexity: Installing and maintaining a septic system can involve navigating local regulations and ongoing upkeep, which might be challenging depending on your location.
- Location Constraints: In some areas, installation might not even be an option due to local building codes or environmental restrictions.
Verdict
While the traditional toilet option is the most expensive and complex, it offers a tangible advantage in guest satisfaction and market differentiation. For operators serious about long-term success, this solution is worth considering as a key investment in your property’s infrastructure.
Conclusion
In the ever-evolving world of glamping, answering the question "what type of toilet do I need for my dome?" involves weighing upfront costs, guest expectations, and long-term competitive advantages. Whether you opt for a cost-effective outhouse, an eco-friendly composting toilet, or the guest-pleasing traditional toilet, investing in quality infrastructure is crucial. Remember, while glamping offers a fantastic opportunity to stand out in the hospitality market, it’s much harder to retrofit or upgrade your facilities later. Invest wisely today to ensure your dome remains the premier choice for discerning travelers tomorrow.
Invest in the solution that best matches your budget and business goals—your guests and your bottom line will thank you.
