At the beginning of this year, I had no idea what to expect— no one did. With the pandemic still raging and the hospitality industry slowed to a crawl, nearly everyone was nervously waiting to see if 2021 would bring more opportunities and a return to “normal.”
I’m glad to say that this year saw a significant shift in workload from 2020. In March of 2020, we cut our hours back to 20 per week because the workload went to an absolute halt. 2021 was off to a slow start, but in these last 12 months, we have gone from 20-hour work-weeks to 30, then 40, and now approved overtime completing projects for clients. The entire team is grateful.
We have also felt blessed to return to large group events after 18 months of solitude by attending HOTEC, BITAC, HD Expo, and BDNY this year. Our industry is very social, so being able to network again felt better than ever.
Design that Makes a Difference
Through the ups and downs of the past two years, JAI has maintained the mission of Design that Makes a Difference. We completed a special project under construction through the pandemic: our custom dual Courtyard – SpringHill Suites in Amelia Island, Florida.
One of the exciting features of this project was the dual-branded nature of the hotel. We could incorporate similar themes for each but implement them differently for both brands. Drawing inspiration from the beautiful surroundings of Amelia Island, FL, the Courtyard focuses on the unique wildlife in that area, while the SpringHill Suites features the playfulness of the location’s surf. The two spaces are connected by a beautiful range of aquas and teals, softer on the Courtyard side and bolder on the SpringHill Suites side.
We didn’t know when we started the project in 2019, but the beach destination has given many vacationers (and staycationers) respite as the pandemic continues. It’s exciting to provide hope through design to those feeling drained or burnt out by the past two years’ events.
A Story of Feast and Famine
This year, our greatest highlight was the acquisition of seven projects, five clients, two employees, and two consultants in August from a longtime colleague of mine. This sudden transition created internal challenges as we worked through how to handle everything all at once. However, with patience, attention to detail, and nurturing of relationships, we were able to get to the place we are today that is familiar with a sense of stability and comfort for all involved.
Of all the facets of the acquisition, I’m most thankful for the addition of Jenn Mock and Melissa Sears.
Jenn Mock, our new Operations Director, has given JAI the gift of time. Personal story: as my daughter and I were decorating our Christmas tree the week of Thanksgiving, she asked me why we were doing it so early instead of the week before Christmas like most years. I told her that I have someone handling many of my tasks for the first time in 20 years of JAI, allowing me to be more present for our family. Madelyn responded, “It is because of Jenn Mock, isn’t it, mom?”
Yes! Because of Jenn Mock, our family can enjoy more quality time together this holiday season! And my family is genuinely GRATEFUL! In 2022, this time will be used to cultivate all the exciting plans and visions I have for JAI and beyond.
Melissa Sears is the new addition to our design team. Melissa seamlessly slid into our team and brought the added experience of high-end multi-family residential design to JAI. Recently, we’ve also welcomed her sweet baby Casen to our extended JAI family!
Designing our Future in 2022 and Beyond
We have many exciting goals for 2022. We have some fabulous new-build projects starting that will make a difference through design upon completion in 2023.
Our Gateway Dunedin Development project we started this year will continue in 2022 as we come together with the Owner, GC, Architect and Design to create something spectacular that will bring so many together in our local community. This project will make a significant impact on all who visit, whether as a guest of our independent boutique hotel or as a resident in one of our multi-family units.
We have several stunning renovations wrapping up in 2022 that we will be able to add to our portfolio. We will also be growing our team again to further develop and launch some visions I had in 2020. Stay tuned…it is going to be an exciting ride!
Make a Difference Through Your Design
If you are designing a restaurant, hotel, or your hotel is ready for renovation; it is essential to work with an interior design firm that understands how exceptional design affects your guests’ experience and bottom line. It’s possible to receive a quality, thoughtful design that stays within your brand standards and keeps your budget in line.
The JAI team is located in multiple states, giving us even more flexibility when building and renovating hotels around the United States. Contact JAI today for an initial design consultation, and let’s work together to make your project a huge success. Learn more about how JAI is committed to Design that Makes a Difference.
