Collaboration That Carries Projects Forward |
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| Dearborn Inn: Main Inn Guestroom. Photo Credit: Isaac Maiselman |
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| We are often asked about the challenges within our work as architects, interior designers, and procurement partners. FF&E logistics is inherently complex, and that complexity means challenges can and do arise, particularly on adaptive reuse projects. Even with experienced teams and well-established processes, unforeseen conditions and shifting priorities are sometimes unavoidable. What defines success is not the absence of challenges, but how they are addressed by the people involved.
Across both KDG and Intramode, we share a core belief that integrity, accountability, and professionalism matter. Reputation lives with individuals, not just companies. While every organization encounters obstacles, not every team responds with care, transparency, and a solutions-focused mindset. That distinction is what ultimately defines strong partnerships and successful outcomes. |
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Dearborn Inn: Main Inn Guestroom. Photo Credit: Isaac Maiselman |
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Adaptive reuse and renovation projects demand real-time coordination between architecture, interior design, construction, and procurement. On projects comprising existing buildings, unanticipated structural components, uneven floor plates, or difficult concealed conditions are often revealed only after demolition is underway. These discoveries frequently require design revisions mid-construction, including shifts in guestroom layouts, millwork dimensions, or furniture placement.
Having a procurement partner consistently engaged during construction ensures FF&E decisions evolve alongside the building itself. When procurement is embedded in the process, FF&E specifications can be reviewed and adjusted in real time. Casegoods dimensions, seating layouts, and electrical outlet locations can be modified proactively to align with revised construction conditions, avoiding costly last-minute changes, reorders, or furniture deliveries that no longer fit the space.
This collaborative approach was exemplified through our recent partnership with PCI-Dailey Co. on the Dearborn Inn Main Inn and Colonial Homes projects, working alongside ownership Ford Land and the Marriott brand team. These renovation projects required close coordination to balance design quality requirements, brand standards, and active construction conditions.
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Dearborn Inn: Colonial Homes Guestroom. Photo Credit: Isaac Maiselman |
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Design Solution:One unique procurement challenge involved custom millwork closets designed to conceal mechanical ductwork while still allowing code-required access for maintenance. As existing conditions were refined and construction progressed, ongoing collaboration between KDG, Intramode, & PCI Dailey allowed these highly customized FF&E solutions to be evaluated and adjusted prior to fabrication, ensuring they remained aligned with field conditions, design intent, and operational needs. |
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Adaptive reuse & renovation timelines are also frequently impacted by unforeseen site conditions such as abatement, structural reinforcement, or utility upgrades. These issues can affect when spaces are ready to receive FF&E and require nimble coordination to prevent delays from cascading across the project. |
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Dearborn Inn: Colonial Homes Guestroom. Photo Credit: Isaac Maiselman |
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| Our Integrated Team Approach:With procurement actively involved during construction, deliveries can be re-sequenced, inventory strategically held, and vendor production timelines adjusted to reflect evolving schedules. This flexibility helps prevent on-site storage challenges, reduces the risk of damage from early deliveries, and supports construction teams as timelines shift.
From firm leadership to project teams and field support, our organizations prioritize ethics, culture, and responsibility. How we respond when something does not go as planned is just as important as the work itself. Doing the right thing with professionalism and a positive attitude, whether navigating a mistake or a complication beyond our control, strengthens trust and leads to better outcomes for our clients. |
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Our success is built not only on the individuals within our respective organizations, but on the strength of the partnerships we choose. Shared values, strong work ethic, and aligned expectations create teams that work collaboratively through challenges rather than against one another.
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| It is never an us versus them approach, but a collective commitment to the project and the client. With that mindset, even the most complex logistics become more manageable. |
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| Dearborn Inn: Main Inn Entrance. Photo Credit: Isaac Maiselman
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| Kraemer Design Group was proud to be a design partner on the thoughtful restoration and reintroduction of the Dearborn Inn, working collaboratively with Ford Motor Company, Ford Land, PCI-Dailey, Saguez & Dash, Peter Basso & Associates, Illuminart, Resurget, the Marriott Autograph Collection brand team, and the broader project partners to honor the property’s historic legacy while delivering a contemporary hospitality experience. These projects stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and craftsmanship in carrying an iconic American destination forward for future generations to experience. |
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| Let’s connect & build your next hospitality project together. |
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