ISSUE 007 - SPRING/SUMMER 2023

SPRING / SUMMER 2023

ISSUE 007

BLOOM

© 2023 by Cadiz Collaboration

2023 BLOOM

06

REGENERATIVE DESIGN THINKING IN HOSPITALITY DESIGN

CONVERSATION WITH MIKE DEMPSEY WITH ROGERS-O’BRIEN CONSTRUCTION 2023 CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

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POWER OF STORY DESIGN X BRANDING

SANTA BARBARATRIBUTE HOTEL

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS WHAT DO WE DO?

PRODUCT WE LOVE: ART

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THE BUZZ AT THE HOSPITALITY DESIGN EXPO 2023

BLOOM 2023

Welcome to the spring / summer issue of our design magazine, where we explore the themes of regenerative thinking, construction challenges, the importance of brand and storytelling, and art in the hospitality industry.

The past year has brought significant challenges to the hospitality industry, from the effects of the pandemic to the increasing urgency of sustainability and social responsibility. In this issue, we showcase examples of hotels that are responding to these challenges by incorporating regenerative thinking into their design strategies, addressing construction challenges, prioritizing brand and storytelling, and incorporating art.

First, we dive into the concept of regenerative thinking, exploring how hotels can create positive impacts on the environment, society, and governance through design choices that prioritize sustainability and social responsibility. We highlight hotels that are implementing innovative practices such as using renewable energy, reducing waste, and supporting local communities.

Next, we examine the challenges facing construction in the hospitality industry today. From the increasing cost of materials to the shortage of skilled labor, hotels are facing a range of obstacles when it comes to building sustainable and resilient properties. We

showcase hotels that are finding creative solutions to these challenges and prioritizing sustainable construction practices.

Then, we turn to the importance of brand and storytelling in hotel design. We showcase hotels that are using narrative to create memorable guest experiences, celebrate local culture, and build brand loyalty. By connecting with guests on a deeper level, hotels can create a sense of community and loyalty that can withstand even the toughest challenges.

Finally, we explore the role of art in hotel design, highlighting how artwork can create a unique identity, enhance the guest experience, and promote local culture. We look at how designers can collaborate with art consultants to ensure that the artwork aligns with the overall vision and goals of the project.

As the hospitality industry continues to navigate the challenges of today and tomorrow, we hope this issue inspires you to embrace new approaches to hotel design that prioritize regenerative thinking, address construction challenges, prioritize brand and storytelling, and incorporate meaningful art. By doing so, we can create more sustainable, resilient, and memorable hotel experiences for guests and communities alike.

With gratitude,

Lorraine Francis, AIA, LEED BD+C Design Principal

lorraine_francis@cadizcollaboration.com

www.cadizcollaboration.com

Regenerative Design Thinking in Hospitality Design

Regenerative design thinking is a relatively new concept in the world of hospitality design, but it is quickly gaining momentum as more designers and architects recognize the benefits of creating spaces that not only reduce their environmental impact but also contribute positively to the surrounding environment.

REGENERATIVE DESIGN THINKING IN HOSPITALITY DESIGN

Regenerative design thinking is a holistic approach to design that goes beyond simply reducing waste and conserving resources. It is about creating spaces that actively improve the environment and create a symbiotic relationship between the built and natural worlds.

In the hospitality industry, this approach can be applied to everything from hotels and resorts to restaurants and bars. By incorporating regenerative design thinking into hospitality design, designers can create spaces that not only enhance the guest experience but also have a positive impact on the environment.

One of the key principles of regenerative design thinking is the use of natural systems and processes to create sustainable solutions. This can include using natural materials, incorporating green roofs or walls, and utilizing passive heating and cooling systems.

For example, a hotel might incorporate a green roof into its design, which not only helps to reduce energy costs but also provides habitat

for local wildlife and improves air quality. Similarly, a restaurant might use locally sourced, organic ingredients in its dishes, reducing the environmental impact of shipping and transportation while supporting the local community.

Another important aspect of regenerative design thinking is the idea of closed-loop systems. This means designing spaces that produce little to no waste, and any waste that is produced is recycled or reused. For example, a hotel might use a wastewater treatment system that recycles water for irrigation or other non-potable uses, reducing the amount of water that needs to be drawn from local sources.

Regenerative design thinking also involves a deep understanding of the local environment and the cultural and social context in which the space will exist. By considering the needs of the community and the surrounding environment, designers can create spaces that are not only beautiful and functional but also contribute positively to the local ecosystem.

There are numerous benefits for developers who embrace regenerative design thinking in hospitality design. Here are six of them:

1 Competitive Advantage

By embracing regenerative design thinking, developers can differentiate themselves from their competitors and create a unique value proposition for their guests. Today’s consumers are increasingly eco-conscious and value sustainable practices, so developers who prioritize sustainability and regenerative design can attract a wider audience and potentially gain a competitive advantage in the market.

2 Cost Savings

While regenerative design thinking may require an upfront investment, it can result in long-term cost savings. For example, using energy-efficient systems and materials can reduce energy costs and operating expenses over time. Additionally, closed-loop systems that reuse and recycle waste can reduce waste disposal costs.

3 Resilience

Regenerative design thinking can help to create more resilient buildings and spaces. By incorporating natural systems and processes, such as green roofs or passive heating and cooling, spaces can be designed to be more resistant to natural disasters and climate change.

4 Improved Health and Well-Being

Regenerative design thinking can contribute to improved health and well-being for guests and employees. By incorporating natural elements, such as natural light, greenery, and clean air, into the design, spaces can promote mental and physical wellness.

5 Positive Environmental Impact

Regenerative design thinking can contribute to a positive environmental impact by reducing the carbon footprint of hospitality spaces. For example, using sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems can reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, closed-loop systems that recycle waste can reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.

6 Community Engagement

Regenerative design thinking can help to build stronger connections with local communities. By incorporating the needs of the community and the surrounding environment into the design process, developers can create spaces that are more respectful of local culture and traditions. This can also lead to greater community engagement and support for the project.

In summary, embracing regenerative design thinking can bring numerous benefits to developers in the hospitality industry. From competitive advantage to cost savings and improved health and well-being, this approach can contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future for the industry and the planet as a whole.

REGENERATIVE DESIGN THINKING IN HOSPITALITY DESIGN

Conversation with Mike Dempsey with Roger-O’Brien Construction

Construction 2023

Challenges and Opportunities

Since 1969, Rogers-O’Brien Construction has firmly established itself as Texas’ Premier Builder by delivering excellence and expertise to our valued customers through all aspects of our business. We consistently deliver high quality buildings and exceed the most demanding expectations. Rogers-O’Brien’s unique approach consistently delivers high quality buildings in a variety of market sectors, exceeding the most demanding expectations.

Lorraine Francis: Starting our project during the tail-end of the pandemic has had some challenges. How do you see the current impact, and what changes have you had to make to adapt?

Mike Dempsey: Starting our project during the tail-end of the pandemic presented some major challenges across our entire business. Chief among the challenges has been the safeguarding of our onsite workforce. We’ve implemented strict health and safety protocols to minimize the risk of exposure by including additional sanitization, social distancing, and additional personal protective equipment, as needed, on our job sites. By keeping a watchful eye on the directives issued by local health authorities, we’ve swiftly refined our practices, ensuring an ever-secure working environment.

Additionally, the supply chain disruption fallout from the pandemic has led to extraordinary (truly unprecedented) lead times for most of the materials used in every facility we build. We have adapted by pre-purchasing materials prior to commencement, finding alternative suppliers, and working with our partners to develop creative solutions to keep the projects moving forward.

LF: How are you dealing with supply chain issues and delays caused by shortages of materials, components, particularly electric components?

MD: To deal with supply chain issues and delays caused by material and component shortages, we’ve implemented a very proactive approach to procurement, sourced alternate materials, and offered alternate solutions to our design partners.

Throughout our 50 years serving Texas, we’ve fostered many trusted subcontractor relationships which have proved to be absolutely critical during these times. We maintain close relationships with our suppliers and constantly monitor lead

times for all the major materials so we can share real-time updates with our internal teams and customers.

Perhaps the most disrupted portion of the supply chain has been related to electric components, and in particular switchgear. Depending on the specific type of switchgear, we have seen lead times extend out to eighteen months! We have utilized several different strategies to address this particular concern including preordering materials, expediting purchase orders, redesigning the electrical service for more readily available materials, and utilizing creative temporary construction power solutions.

MIKE DEMPSEY AT R-O CONSTRUCTION

LF: With interest rates uncertain, how are you managing the financial risk of construction in the hospitality sector?

MD: The uncertainty of interest rates, availability of capital, and current construction costs has dramatically increased the financial risk particularly during the planning phase but also continues during construction with the interest carry fluctuations. During the planning phase we provide our customers with a wide menu of pricing options to create a financial buffer prior to closing the construction loan. Working closely with our clients to establish contingency plans and maintaining open lines of communication to ensure all parties can pivot is essential.

LF: How are you using technology , or innovative construction methods to improve efficiency, reduce cost or meet sustainable goals in the hospitality industry?

MD: Across the construction industry, 96% of data goes unused (2018 FMI Report). Having disparate processes that are not aligned across an organization does not enable a successful datadriven decision-making culture. We’re trying to change that. In 2021, we made some key new hires including our Director of IT who brings extensive Data Warehouse experience and a BI Analyst/ Developer to improve existing dashboards. We started building out new dashboards (multisystem data) and working on streamlining common systems and processes to align key data objectives. With these changes, our data is now stored in a common system. The benefits are exponential. Common ways to collect and use data are standardized across project teams. The data is liquid, and easily accessible for quick decisions. Field teams can view data quickly to help inform decisions. And then our corporate goals and benchmarks are used to measure progress and outcomes. Data is used to proactively manage risk and provide better visibility into issues earlier. We can more quickly analyze RFIs across all completed projects, learn from historical RFI trends, and understand what RFIs are most likely to occur on future projects based on past performance. We can see the risk of overspending based on historical project trends and then act as soon as risk emerges.

LF: Labor shortage has been a continued challenge in the hospitality industry, how are you dealing with labor shortage or backlogs amount trade partners, and what impact is that having on your projects?

MD: Labor shortages have been a major challenge for us, particularly with certain trades like electrical and plumbing. To address labor shortages and backlogs among trade partners, we are actively recruiting skilled workers and investing in workforce development initiatives. We also collaborate with local trade schools and community organizations to attract and retain talent.

One proactive step we recently took to address the labor shortages and skill gaps in the construction industry was by founding the ACE mentorship program here in Austin. This program connects high school students interested in architecture, construction, and engineering to industry professionals who mentor them and provide valuable insights and guidance. We also sponsor various other initiatives and partnerships that support the next generation of builders, such

as scholarships and sponsorships for students pursuing degrees or certifications in constructionrelated fields. In fact, we just wrapped up a threeday competition with a group called SkillsUSA that promotes leadership, STEM, and occupational skills among CTE high-school students. Through these efforts, we aim to inspire and empower young people to consider careers in construction and support their development into skilled professionals.

LF: Finally, How do you see the hospitality construction industry evolving in the next few years and what opportunity or challenges do you anticipate?

MD: Looking ahead, we anticipate continued growth in the hospitality construction industry and greater focus on sustainability, technology integration, and modular construction methods. Opportunities lie in adopting energy-efficient systems, smart technologies, and prefabricated components, while challenges may include staying up to date with new regulations, managing labor shortages, supply chain, and construction pricing.

Power of Story Design X Branding

Santa Barbara Tribute Hotel

Branding and design are essential components in the hospitality industry as they play a crucial role in shaping the guest experience and perception of a hotel or resort. In today’s highly competitive market, a strong brand and compelling narrative can make all the difference in attracting and retaining guests. Here are some key reasons why branding and design are so important in hospitality:

ROOTED TO THE LAND m

Celebrating the grounding of the earth the interiors are defined by earthy textures, organic materials and fluid forms which speak the biophilic language of the region while curating a distinct sensibility for the hotel. The hotel harmonizes the modern aethetics while rooted in traditional design principles, creating a seamless blend between the past and present. The result is a unique and immersive experience that connects guests to the natural world and cultural heritage of the area.

Differentiation

A well-defined brand and unique story can set a hotel or resort apart from competitors. By creating a distinct identity and personality, a hotel can differentiate itself in the market and attract guests who are seeking a unique experience.

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Emotional Connection

Stories have the power to evoke emotions and create a connection with guests. By sharing the history, culture, and values of a hotel or resort, guests can feel a sense of connection and belonging, which can lead to loyalty and repeat visits.

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Consistency

A strong brand and narrative can help to ensure consistency across all touchpoints, from the website and social media to the guest rooms and amenities. This consistency can help to build trust with guests and create a sense of reliability and dependability.

Authenticity

Authenticity is highly valued by guests, especially in today’s world where there is a growing emphasis on transparency and ethical practices. By telling a compelling and authentic story, hotels and resorts can build trust with guests and demonstrate their commitment to social and environmental responsibility.

ZEST FOR LIFE m

The Pacifica Hotels champions a “Zest for Life” which is defined as a feeling of enjoyment and enthusiasm for life. It is both an atmosphere and a mind set; encouraging the guest to slow-down and enjoy the moment. The hotel is filled with intimate vignettes promoting romance and authentic connection. Additionally, the sun-soaked terraces and vibrantly colorful flare of the design and dining selections add to the thriving environment which keeps the guest enthralled throughout their stay.

Increased Revenue

A strong brand and compelling story can lead to increased revenue by attracting new guests and encouraging repeat visits. By creating a memorable experience, guests are more likely to share their experience with others and recommend the hotel or resort to their friends and family.

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Adaptability

A strong brand and narrative can also help hotels and resorts adapt to changing trends and market conditions. By understanding the core values and identity of the brand, hotels can pivot and adjust their offerings to meet the changing needs and preferences of guests.

POWER OF STORY DESIGN X BRANDING SANTA BABARATRIBUTE HOTEL

Concept Attributes m

Refuge Elevated

Fluid

In summary, branding and storytelling are critical components of the hospitality industry. By creating a unique identity, evoking emotions, ensuring consistency and authenticity, increasing revenue, and promoting adaptability, hotels and resorts can create a lasting impression on guests and build a loyal following.

Enchanting

America’sRiviera m

One only need to view the azure sea lapping the beach, or the sea of red-roofed whitewashed buildings with their dramatic backdrop of mountains, to understand why Santa Barbara has become the American Riviera. A seaside enclave rich with hints of European charm in central California is a place of respite and inspiration. The central California region, has been a popular getaway since the early 1950s—its abundance of sunshine, Mediterranean climate, and sprawling Pacific Ocean views keeps it a paradise- waiting to be discovered.

Landscape Architects What Do We Do?

Written by Paul Wong at LandCreative Inc.

Many years ago, when I’d been in the industry for a few years, my wife would often get the polite inquiry, “What does your husband do?”

When she’d respond that I was a Landscape Architect, she’d usually get the same follow up question, “How many trucks does he have?”

Or sometimes the response would be, “You must have beautiful garden.” But you know how the saying goes: “the Cobbler’s kids have no shoes.”

Let’s just say, my garden is currently functional, and it did look great in the first few years it was installed. I haven’t spent much time “gardening” recently, so it does need some attention. But as a Landscape Architect, I don’t do landscape maintenance, and I don’t own a single truck.

I have nothing but respect and great admiration for the landscape maintenance crews and landscape contractors, because they do all the hard work making our designs reality, but we are all mistakenly seen as one.

Even today in 2023, our profession still has to work on getting our message out about just what it is we do and don’t do.

Culture Helps Clear It Up

A super fun TV commercial at this year’s Superbowl 57 was Booking.com’s advertisement “Somewhere, Anywhere,” starring Melissa McCarthy.

Melissa wakes up singing, “it’s been too long since I had a vacation” as she’s looking at the Booking. com website on her phone, then the scenes switches to a balcony at a beach house on a bluff overlooking the ocean…” I am going somewhere, anywhere- a beach house or tree house…honestly, I don’t care” … Then she is sitting by a pool surrounded by beautiful Bougainvillea blossoms and a green hedge with someone standing nearby…” a fancy hotel with a sexy gardener” …The sexy gardener stands up, clips off a branch, and proclaims, “A Landscape Architect!”

It was great to see our profession getting airplay during the biggest advertising event of the year, but there are still misconceptions out there. Although it’s mostly the general public who hold misconceptions about our profession, we still sometimes have to spread the work within our own industry.

ASLA Takes the Ball and Runs

The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) received feedback about the commercial from some members and released a statement. From ASLA CEO Torey Carter-Conneen:

“Landscape architects design the treasured outdoor spaces where Americans gather, play, compete, relax, live, learn and work. If you love football stadiums, vacation resorts, public parks, campuses, plazas, waterfronts and other outdoor spaces, thank a landscape architect!

“At American Society of Landscape Architects, we love the humor and the delivery in ‘Somewhere, Anywhere.’ Like actor Ben Falcone’s character, every landscape architect knows what it’s like to have to explain what they do.

“Here’s the secret: Landscape architects bring people together in beloved spaces enjoyed by all and make the world healthier and more beautiful.”

“For sports arenas, landscape architecture firm Studio-MLA recently helped set a new standard in Los Angeles, “opening up the arena to the sky, air, and nature, and blurring the lines between stadium, botanical garden, and public park.”

According to the ASLA Web site – The actual term landscape architecture became common after 1863 when Fredrick La Olmstead and Calvert Vaus designed New York’s Central Park. The profession has been around for 160 years.

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS WHAT DO WE DO?

Variety is the Spice of Work

There are many different avenues we can explore since our profession has a broad spectrum of areas in which to practice. We participate in environments from the private and public sectors to academic organizations and beyond. In the private sector, the clients can range from homeowners, residential developers (master planned communities), retail developers and office building developers. In the public sector, there is work with the federal, state, regional, and municipal agencies – including U.S. Forest Services and National Park Services. In academia, there are teaching or research positions in various universities and colleges.

Landscape Architects can have an impact, whether on a small scale or a large regional scale. A project can be a small simple garden, a retail site, a restaurant or office building, a hotel or complete resort site, a master planned community, a large community park, or a large regional park.

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS WHAT DO WE DO?

Landscape Design is Integral- and Healthy

Clients or Companies who understood the importance of good landscape architecture design see their monetary investments pay off with higher property values. They also earn the great satisfaction of creating a place that is a more desirable place to live, work, or play within. Investing just a little more into landscape design can make a big difference to the overall look and feel of the project.

On the other end of the spectrum, there are Companies or Clients who merely focus on the financial bottom line. They consider landscape as just a necessary component, so they install the bare minimum landscape required. And their projects unfortunately show it.

This is a missed opportunity, as it’s important for everyone to connect to nature wherever they can. Many studies have shown the physical and mental health benefits of spending time in natural surroundings. The natural environment helps reduce stress and helps the body recover from many health aliments.

Landscape Architects have been at the forefront of this renewed focus on nature with creating green spaces in our expanding built environment. One classic example was mentioned above – Central Park in New York. Olmstead and Vaus had a bold idea to bring a large open green space to the concrete jungle on Manhattan Island, giving the urban dwellers a respite from the harsh city environment. This gift to the city continues to promote the wellbeing of its residents.

The Impact of DesignGood and Bad

You recognize when a location looks beautiful or makes you feel good, but you don’t necessarily understand why, or the considerations and components that went into creating it. Good design can create a deceptively simple setting. Landscape Architects help to set the stage, allowing for creative use of space, flexible programming, as well as room for entertainment and enjoyment of life.

Conversely, there are also many places where you don’t really want to spend any time, as it just doesn’t feel right. This is often because the landscape design is an afterthought and the installation is left to the end. By the time the project gets to landscape in that kind of scenario, there isn’t any funding left to finish the job.

Landscape gets “value engineered” to meet the budgetary constraints- meaning stripped down to the barest essentials.

When Landscape Architects are brought into the project design process early, and provide their talents to the site plan, our input is invaluable to siting building, allowing enough space for the landscape overlay so the project has room to breathe. We also experience the inverse- projects where the site is already designed and there’s very little space for programmable areas/events or to add the landscape overlay. We are simply brought on towards the tail end to “green it up.” As you can imagine, this is reflected in the execution and feeling of the space.

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS WHAT DO WE DO?

Let the Location Lead

There are many factors that are included in our design process when we are creating solutions. Every project site is unique, and each will have different external and internal factors that affect the final solution. We don’t just look at the site alone, we take a broader view and ask related questions. What are the surrounding uses? What are the environmental conditions (sun exposure, wind direction, etc.) Are there views from and into the site? Once we survey thoroughly and have the answers at hand, we can take the artistic paint brush to mitigate any technical issues.

We’re always interested in how the site will be used – how people will move around, getting

from one area to the other. What programmed elements will be suitable for the site? How can we best incorporate all the elements the client wants to include?

In the end people will let you know if the design works or if it doesn’t- and if they like it or not. You can make your best effort to layout the perfect solution, but the end users will let their participation do the talking on the site. People are like water and will always take the easiest path- which can teach us invaluable lessons.

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS

WHAT DO WE DO?

Envisioning Space and Our Future

There are solutions that look good only when designed on paper, something we call “paper architecture”. The two-dimensional layout appears pleasing but does not work in physical reality. We always have to think about what the design will look like when one is on the ground and in the actual space, by thinking in 3D.

Landscape Architects are capable of leading design efforts, and as the world becomes increasingly aware of the importance of natural connection, our work is being seen through a new lens. As our contributions are increasingly recognized as an integral part of overall design, we can influence the overall look and feel of projects in a more profound way. As key contributors to design as a whole, our valuable input will help create projects that will be enjoyed and will continue to inspire for many years to come.

LOVE! WE PRODUCTS

Curate Art Group

Farmboy Fine Arts

ART

Artwork plays a crucial role in the design of hotels, as it adds character and personality to the space, enhances the guest experience, and creates a sense of luxury and sophistication. We value working with talented art consultant to collaborate on our art story. It create a unique identity that reflects the hotel’s style and personality and help hotels differentiate themselves from their competitors. Equally it enhances the guest experience making guests feel more comfortable and at home, by creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It can also add an element of surprise and delight, engaging guests on an emotional level and creating a memorable experience.

Artwork can add visual interest to a space, making it more attractive and engaging. It creates a focal point, drawing guests’ attention to specific areas of the hotel and enhancing the overall design. We also love that it promotes local culture, by featuring local artists or showcasing art that is inspired by the local area. Guests feel more connected to their surroundings and create a sense of place.

Lastly, thoughtful art elevates a hotels brand image, by communicating a sense of luxury, sophistication, and cultural awareness. Hotels that prioritize art and design are often seen as more innovative and upscale. It is an investment that can pay off in terms of guest satisfaction, reputation, and revenue.

Studio El

Studio El

Kevin Barry Art Advisory

Hospitality Design

Expo 2023 THE BUZZ at

Another great year at the Hospitality Design expo 2023 in Las Vegas! The event always provided a lot of valuable opportunities for exploring new design products, learning about industry trends, and making connections with other professionals.

It was encouraging to hear that the hospitality industry remains strong, despite some of the financial and staffing challenges that have emerged in recent times. Events like the Hospitality Design expo can be especially valuable during times of uncertainty, as they provide opportunities for networking and learning that can help professionals stay ahead of the curve and adapt to changing circumstances.

We loved catching a few of the educational series at both the Social Hub and DesignWell Pavilion to discuss new trends and ideas in hospitality and technology. Till next year!