In this episode of Elevate Hotel Design, host Lorraine Francis of Cadiz Collaboration interviews Amit Patel, Project Director at Creo Hospitality. Amit shares his journey from biochemistry to hospitality, his pivotal role at Creo, and how the firm manages procurement, logistics, and installation for some of the most thoughtfully designed hotels in the country. The conversation covers the complexities of hotel development, the importance of strong vendor relationships, and the future of hospitality design in a post-COVID world. They also discuss AI’s role in procurement and the significance of detailed communication across teams. Tune in for in-depth insights on bringing hotel projects to life.00:00 Introduction to Elevate Hotel Design Podcast01:04 Meet Amit Patel: From Biochemistry to Hospitality02:02 The Origin and Growth of Creo Hospitality04:34 Understanding Procurement in Hospitality06:56 Challenges and Strategies in Hotel Design08:48 Navigating the Complexities of Procurement11:42 Adapting to Industry Changes and Innovations18:05 Managing Logistics and Warehousing20:53 Procurement Challenges in Hospitality21:38 Cost-Saving Strategies in Hotel Projects22:16 Value Engineering and Client Communication24:30 Project Management Success Stories29:43 Favorite Hotels and Tools of the Trade35:42 Future Aspirations and Industry Trends38:35 Conclusion and Farewell
Join host Lorraine Francis on Elevate Hotel Design as she dives into a captivating conversation with Nick Nicola, founder of NOA and veteran architect with over 20 years of experience. Explore Nick’s journey from his early days at Gensler to leading high-end resort projects, including his latest venture — the Montage project in the Bahamas. Discover the challenges and intricacies of island development, storytelling in design, and the lessons from building a luxurious yet sustainable paradise. Tune in to learn about Nick’s entrepreneurial spirit, future expansions, and the art of crafting remarkable hospitality experiences.00:00 Introduction to Elevate Hotel Design00:17 Meet Nick Nicola: Entrepreneurial Journey01:04 Starting NOA: From Vision to Reality04:24 Challenges and Lessons in Entrepreneurship05:39 Montage Key Project: A Caribbean Adventure09:50 Logistics and Construction Challenges14:51 Sustainability and Community Building17:05 Storytelling and Design Philosophy17:54 Embracing the Natural Beauty of the Island18:35 Architectural Scale and Privacy19:04 Guest Experience and Arrival21:36 Expansion in the Caribbean Market24:41 Design Philosophy and Core Values26:57 Photography as a Creative Outlet31:18 Advice for Aspiring Designers32:57 Favorite Hotels and Hospitality Joy35:55 Conclusion and Future Projects
In this episode of ELEVATE: Hotel Design, host Lorraine Francis from Cadiz Collaboration discusses the critical importance of water quality in hospitality design with Mike Sale, Director of Home Water Systems at Delta Faucet. With over 70 years in the industry, Delta Faucet has pioneered transformative water interactions across homes and hotels. Mike shares their innovative solutions addressing water quality and sustainability, and enhancing guest experiences. Explore topics like reverse osmosis, water tasting, and the impact of high-quality water systems on wellness. Don't miss this deep dive into the future of hospitality design and how Delta is making a difference in sustainability and wellness. 00:00 Introduction to Elevate Hotel Design Podcast 00:17 Guest Introduction: Mike Sale from Delta Faucet 00:48 Delta's Innovations in Water Quality and Sustainability 01:23 Personal Experiences and Water Quality Concerns 03:43 Consumer Trust and Water Quality Issues 04:53 The Science and Future of Water Treatment 06:33 Water Quality in Daily Life and Hospitality 11:25 Reverse Osmosis and Technological Advances 18:31 Becoming a Certified Water Sommelier 21:26 Water Tasting and Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) 24:12 Exploring Bottled Water Preferences 24:45 Understanding Natural vs. Commercial Bottled Water 25:13 The Popularity of Fiji Water 25:59 Tasting Icelandic Water 27:12 The Queen's Water: Hilden 28:34 Gerolsteiner: A High TDS Favorite 29:44 Three Bays: An Australian Marvel 32:09 Vichy Catalan: The Bold Spanish Water 36:41 The Future of Water Filtration Systems 42:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In this episode of ‘Elevate Hotel Design,’ host Lorraine Francis from Cadiz Collaboration welcomes Rich Levins, Senior Vice President at Fulcrum Hospitality. Rich provides a deep dive into the intricacies of hospitality asset management and development. They discuss significant transformation projects like the conversion of Cambria hotels in Sonoma and Napa into Hilton Tapestry hotels. Rich shares his personal journey from aspiring chef to hospitality expert, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, relationships, and strategic planning in the industry. Additionally, they explore upcoming trends, challenges, and the critical role of thoughtful design and management in elevating the hospitality experience. Tune in to gain valuable insights and hear inspiring stories from the world of hotel design and management. 00:00 Welcome to Elevate Hotel Design 00:13 Introducing Rich Levins from Fulcrum Hospitality 01:22 Rich Levins’ Journey into Hospitality 03:26 Starting at Fulcrum Hospitality 06:12 Role of an Asset Manager 08:06 Partnership with Ohana Real Estate Investors 09:50 Transforming Cambria Hotels into Hilton Tapestry 19:27 Design and Development Trends in Hospitality 21:46 New Construction Challenges in Aruba 28:03 The Allure of Aruba: A Year-Round Destination 28:38 Development Challenges and Opportunities 31:04 The Importance of Collaboration in Hospitality 34:16 Navigating Project Hurdles and Success Stories 38:10 Current Market Challenges and Financing 45:17 Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Hoteliers 49:54 Balancing Personal and Professional Life 52:46 Conclusion and Future Insights
Join host Lorraine Francis in this episode of ELEVATE: Hotel Design as she delves into the transformative journey of Material Bank with co-founder Farshid Tafazzoli. Discover how Material Bank is revolutionizing the material sourcing process for designers, architects, and vendors through its tech-driven platforms, global expansion, and commitment to sustainability. Learn about their seamless ordering system, extensive data-driven insights, and innovative tools like digital mood boards and centralized sample operations. This episode highlights Material Bank’s role in modernizing the design industry, tackling industry pain points, and offering tailored growth strategies. Tune in to explore the future of design sourcing, the company’s strategic initiatives, and how they’re making the process faster, more efficient, and eco-friendly. 00:00 Welcome to Elevate Hotel Design00:15 Meet Farshd Tafazzoli from Material Bank01:10 Farshid’s Journey to Material Bank03:45 The Role and Evolution of Material Bank04:47 How Material Bank Works10:45 Global Expansion and Challenges15:07 Innovations and Future Plans25:22 The Popularity of Branded M&Ms26:08 Leveraging Data for Design Trends29:41 Supporting Small and Medium Brands35:46 Sustainability Initiatives40:25 Innovative Tools for Designers43:54 Future Outlook and Industry Innovations48:55 Closing Remarks and Reflections
In this special edition of Elevate Hotel Design, we broadcast live from New York City Fashion Week to explore the intersection of fashion and hotel design. We delve into Brizo’s luxury plumbing fixtures, their collaboration with fashion designer Jason Wu, and their focus on advanced water technology and wellness. Join us for insights from Brizo’s key team members, Emily Mueller, Alex Neff, and Celine Garland, as they share their passion for combining form and function. Explore how the latest trends in design and fashion influence the creation of inspiring spaces. Plus, get a sneak peek into Brizo’s innovative products and their vision for the future of sustainable hotel design. Don’t miss out on our behind-the-scenes bonus content and additional insights from Brizo! 00:00 Introduction to Elevate Hotel Design at NYC Fashion Week00:25 Exploring the Brizo Brand01:05 Meet the Brizo Team01:17 The Brizo and Jason Wu Collaboration02:12 The Origin of Brizo07:19 Innovations in Water Technology18:03 Sustainability and Manufacturing Processes18:55 The Design Process at Brizo21:28 Understanding Human Conformity in Daily Routines22:16 The Importance of Observational Research22:40 Exploring Global Inspirations and Trends23:50 Encouraging Creative Empowerment and Self-Expression26:11 Customization and Innovation in Design28:11 The Rise of Black Onyx and Other Trends33:11 The Essence of Traditional Design36:08 Collaborations and Influences in Modern Design39:39 Conclusion and Future Insights
Welcome to *ELEVATE: Hotel Design*, your go-to podcast for the latest trends, insights, and innovations in the world of hotel design. Whether you're a hotel owner, developer, or designer, join host Lorraine Francis—an accomplished architect, interior designer, and owner of Cadiz Collaboration—as she delves into transformative design strategies that enhance the guest experience. In each episode, Lorraine brings you engaging stories from leading industry experts, offering invaluable perspectives that inspire and inform. In today’s episode, we are thrilled to welcome Adam Kubryk, Vice President of Sales at Global Allies and co-founder of Vendor Boot Camp. Adam shares his journey and expertise in hospitality furniture design, discussing how his company revolutionizes hotel interiors with innovative, high-quality solutions. He also introduces Vendor Boot Camp, a platform designed to empower vendors in the competitive hospitality market. Tune in for a deep dive into the world of hotel design, where creativity meets functionality, and discover how industry leaders like Adam are shaping the future of hospitality.
Welcome to "ELEVATE Hotel Design", the podcast dedicated to exploring the latest trends, innovations, and insights in the dynamic world of hotel design. Hosted by Lorraine Francis, a seasoned architect and interior designer, and owner of Cadiz Collaboration, each episode dives deep into the art and science of creating transformative spaces that enhance the guest experience.Whether you're a hotel owner, developer, or designer, Elevate Hotel Design is your go-to source for inspiration and expert knowledge. Lorraine brings you compelling conversations with industry leaders, sharing their stories, strategies, and the secrets behind their success.In this episode, we are excited to welcome Mitch Zerg, founder of Mitch Zerg and Associates, a leading multi-line representative company known for connecting top-tier furniture and design solutions with the hospitality industry. With over 40 years of experience, Mitch has a wealth of knowledge in selecting the finest furniture and lighting for luxury hotels. Join us as we delve into the nuances of hotel furnishings, the evolution of design, and what it takes to create memorable, world-class hotel experiences.Tune in to discover the passion and expertise that drive the world of hotel design forward!
Join host Lorraine Francis on "ELEVATE: Hotel Design" with guest Adam Marquis, President of Pacifica Hotels, as they explore the intricate world of hotel design and hospitality. Adam delves into the artistry, innovation, and business strategies behind creating exceptional guest experiences.In this episode, Lorraine and Adam delve into the dynamic landscape of hotel design, drawing on Marquis's extensive experience in the industry and his role in steering Pacifica Hotels to success. From the importance of cultivating meaningful relationships to the evolution of Pacifica's portfolio, they offer insights into the ever-changing hospitality sector. Adam shares reflections on his family's journey in the business, emphasizing the pivotal role of relationships in driving business growth and sustainability. The discussion extends to Pacifica's evolution, spanning both branded and independent hotels, showcasing the company's adaptability and commitment to enhancing guest experiences.Listeners will gain valuable insights into Pacifica's approach to brand affiliations, corporate culture, and the significance of team retreats in fostering innovation and collaboration. As they explore future plans for the company, Lorraine and Adam provide a glimpse into the exciting developments shaping the future of hospitality.Join Elevate: Hotel Design to uncover the secrets behind creating unforgettable hotel experiences and the innovative design strategies shaping the industry's future.Pacifica Hotelshttps://www.pacificahotels.comCadiz CollaborationWebsite: https://www.cadizcollaboration.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cadizcollaboration/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraine-francis-cadizcollaboration/VolitionistsWebsite: https://www.volitionists.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/volitionists/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/volitionists/
Embark on a journey through sustainable design and biophilic architecture as Lorraine Francis and Bill Browning share their insights in this engaging discussion. Explore the economic and wellness advantages of biophilic design in hospitality, from integrating natural elements like fractal patterns to crafting serene environments affordably. Discover real-life applications in hotels like Citizen M and a recent hotel project in Austin. Learn about evolving trends in biophilic design and wellness, emphasizing the importance of refuge spaces in reducing stress post-pandemic. Delve into the concept of awe and its impact on mental well-being, alongside personal narratives of awe in nature. Explore their favorite biophilic hotels and their plans for future investments in sustainable projects across diverse locations. Subscribe for more enlightening conversations on biophilic design, sustainability, and wellness!Terrapin https://www.terrapinbrightgreen.comCadiz CollaborationWebsite: https://www.cadizcollaboration.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cadizcollaboration/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraine-francis-cadizcollaboration/VolitionistsWebsite: https://www.volitionists.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/volitionists/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/volitionists/