Innspace’ Unique Methodology: Designing and Building Together

What is unique about Innspace is that they not only design projects, but they also build them. This gives them the advantage of every team member being engaged in collaboration throughout the process of a project. They bring the full experience of their client into one space, from design and project management, to procurement, logistics and construction. Innspace’ specialty is taking outdated buildings and completely transforming them in ways that attract guests.

The Motivation Behind the Remodel: Aiming for Success

The property was struggling with having a very outdated and tired feel, so InnSpace’s client made it their goal to formulate a new brand for this hotel that would spark excitement and attract people. With the property located Washington’s capitol and near a highway, they hoped they could attract heavy government-affiliated foot traffic.

Meet Nayive: The Creative Director Driving Design Excellence

Nayive Kalkach is a creative director at Innspace and focuses on the design and documentation of projects. Her work is to make sure that each property they work on has a design story. Her involvement in this project was to create the interior design while making sure that all the documentation of those design decisions crossed the finish line.

Design Inspirations: Nature's Influence in Reviving Spaces

When it came to designing, the Innspace design team’s touches evolved around bringing a fresh and revived feel into the space. They took influences from the beautiful nature surroundings, and the local tradition. For example, upon entering the new lobby guests would be greeted by vibrant elements that effortlessly coalesce with the earthy tones, patterns, and organic materials inspired by Olympia’s natural surroundings, establishing a strong connection to the environment. Large windows were part of the design to instill relaxation by showcasing gorgeous views of the Pacific Northwest.

Achieving Milestones: Transitioning to a Voco Hotel

It is significant to note this hotel’s approval to be built into a voco hotel. Voco is an international hotel brand owned by the IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) and this hotel was the first voco on the West Coast in the United States. This was exciting for the team because of the extensive process involved in receiving approval to become a voco. Currently, there are voco’s located in the UK, Singapore, Australia, and more, all offering upscale lifestyle hotel experiences.

Advantages of As-Built Technology in Project Management

Our advanced point cloud data and Revit BIM models are used by all of Innspace’ teams. They use our 3D scans and As-Built plans to collect important information such as the material square footage and ff&e quantities. This is then translated into budgeting and construction time-management logistics.

In addition to internal use, Innspace uses the Revit model to communicate ideas to their client by moving the model in different angles and virtually walking through the space. This use of visuals helps the client make decisions in a more accurate, efficient, and confident manner.

Revit Model: the Right Choice for Design and Build

For Innspace, this is a no brainer. They want to be in control of the full project from beginning to end and provide accurate information. Because Innspace takes full liability for the accuracy of the information they provide to their client, they come to us to document their existing conditions. Our use of the most forward technology that exists, LiDAR, allows Innspace the ability to propose plans, materials, and elements with confidence.

Unveiling Hidden Insights: Discoveries Invisible to Photography

There were several conditions that were not able to be documented through photographs or by viewing the site in-person. When the As-Built BIM model was completed, Innspace was able to view the full and true conditions of the property.

To give one example, hotels typically have two to four floor levels of similar heights; what Innspace discovered through the help of the BIM model was that the hotel had half levels and a restaurant located between levels one and two. This is very important information to have on hand and would have posed a challenge to accurately document this data without the use of LiDAR technology.

The Partnership with PPM: Ensuring Accuracy in Documentation

Nayive received As-Built plans from a different provider who did not include enough detail regarding lighting fixtures. InnSpace discovered several discrepancies between the documentation they received and the actual locations of items. Nayive’s colleague, Dennis, had worked with PPM at his past company and liked the proximity of our Seattle office to his business, so he reached out for us to partner with them on this project.

When it comes to As-Built drawings and models, any inconsistencies between the measurements and actual building elements pose a massive risk to the success of the project. At PPM, our QA process involves 14 steps, including verifying measurements, element placement, and more before we send it out for use.

Behind the Scenes: Angelo's Dedication to Detail

When we interviewed the modeler for this project, Angelo Maldonado, he commented on the unique lobby and restaurant area. Angelo impressively modeled this building completely on his own and was motivated by his enjoyment of seeing the model come together floor by floor.

Integrating Innovation and Precision in Hospitality Renovation

Innspace’ renovation journey exemplifies the seamless integration of creativity and precision. From conceptualization to execution, their commitment to accuracy and innovation has resulted in a transformative guest experience. As we reflect on this project, let us carry forward the lessons learned about the power of collaboration and the importance of embracing technology in shaping interior design abilities and the future of hospitality.