As the chill of December sweeps through our windows, we’re warmed by the glow of reflection and anticipation. Here at JAI, we’re not just wrapping up another year; we’re tying a bow on a period of triumphs, challenges, and growth that have shaped us in ways we could never have imagined. This isn’t just a time to look back on what we’ve achieved — it’s a time to look forward to the exciting transformations that lie ahead.
In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey through our most memorable moments of 2023, share the lessons we’ve learned, and give you a sneak peek into the thrilling changes we have planned for 2024. So, grab a cup of hot cocoa, pull up a chair, and join us as we reflect on the year that was and dream about the year that will be. We promise it’s a tale worth tuning in for.
Unveiling Hotel Flor + The Dan: A Testament to Collaboration and Innovation
The highlight of 2023 for us at JAI was undoubtedly the unveiling of Hotel Flor + The Dan. The most cherished moments were when our team, project management partners from PDSI, and the ownership team could all come together. We convened from across the U.S. and Mexico for a two-day review of our model rooms, an experience filled with professional connection, personal bonding, and plenty of laughter. It was a time of learning and relationship-building that I will treasure.
The grand opening party for The Dan was such a memorable occasion. Despite last-minute cancellations from some ownership group members, the celebration was nothing short of special. We saw firsthand the impact our design had on guests – it was an immediate source of lasting memories and pure joy. Witnessing our design make such a difference was the perfect way to celebrate months of hard work.
Overcoming Design Challenges: Turning Obstacles into Triumphs
Our triumphs often emerge from overcoming challenges, and this year was no exception. One of the challenges we faced was the plaster ceiling at The Dan, which limited our lighting design. However, we managed to create custom fixtures that not only provided ample light coverage but also added a touch of elegance to the space.
Working alongside the Historic Preservation Commission presented its own set of challenges. We had concerns about their requirement to retain the original front desk and a highly textured wall finish in the lobby. In response, we designed vintage luggage-inspired registration pedestals that seamlessly fit into the hotel’s aesthetic and demonstrated that the heavy texture was not original to the hotel.
The custom carpet design throughout the hotel posed another challenge. Ensuring the large-scale patterns flowed seamlessly into smaller-scale patterns in corridors, ramps, and stairwells of different widths required multiple rounds of revisions and a dedicated team. The varying plumbing locations in the guestrooms demanded a collaborative effort from engineers and designers to create a vanity design that accommodated all conditions without compromising our initial design aesthetic.
Hilton: A Year of Successful Collaborations
2023 was truly the year of Hilton for JAI. We completed the renovation of Hilton Polaris in Columbus, Ohio, boasting a fresh design aesthetic, and undertook the historic renovation of The Pennywell Downtown St. Louis, a Hilton Hotel, with its own unique story and style. Our final opening of the year was Hotel Flor, a Tapestry by Hilton.
Many outside our industry might not realize that hotel renovations can take 2-3 years to complete, making the finish line a cause for real celebration. It also allows us to form strong relationships and connections as we spend the majority of our time communicating with various project teams. The true blessing comes when we hand off the renovated hotel to operations and hear their pride in sharing the updated space with guests and locals. Knowing their jobs have been made more efficient and joyful because of the thought put into every detail is the ultimate reward.
Coverings 2023: Discovering New Sources of Inspiration
This year, we had the privilege of attending Coverings 2023, the premier global tile and stone industry event. The experience was invaluable, introducing us to new tile and stone sources that greatly influenced our work in the latter part of the year. We are particularly fond of the Italian and Spanish collections and look forward to incorporating these beautiful materials into our projects in 2024.
Faith in Hospitality: Building a Community of Hope
During the pandemic, I felt called to create a community for those in our industry who believe in something bigger than ourselves. Thus, “Faith in Hospitality” was born on LinkedIn as a closed group for privacy. It’s a space where we can gather, inspire, pray for one another, and connect on a deeper level to make a positive impact in our industry.
Launching this group wasn’t an easy decision. I questioned its purpose and my capability to lead it. However, I realized that many in our industry who built their livelihoods visiting the offices of designers and architects were feeling isolated. With mental illness at an all-time high, it became clear that a community of hope was necessary. Through “Faith in Hospitality,” I want people to know they’re not alone on this journey, and together, we can make a greater impact than we can alone.
Looking Ahead with Excitement: Embracing Change and Energy in 2024
As we look towards the horizon of 2024, we’re filled with a thrilling sense of anticipation. There are exciting changes on the cards, from restructuring JAI to announcing other significant initiatives – there’s so much to look forward to. It’s exhilarating! While we can’t reveal too much now, rest assured that our commitment to making a difference in numerous ways remains unwavering.
With the approaching new year, I feel an energy and excitement for 2024 that hasn’t been felt since 2019. As we continue to deliver personalized service and bespoke design experiences, our hopes for the hospitality industry soar high. We eagerly anticipate another year of design triumphs, forging strong relationships and making a tangible difference in the spaces we transform. So, stay tuned and join us as we toast to a promising 2024!
