Hospitality renovations are difficult, but working within an operating hotel and that project becomes exponentially more difficult. Add to that the expectations of a 5-Star facility and complexities of the project become limitless.
Shell McElroy Construction renovated the Ritz Carlton Buckhead, since rebranded The Whitley. The scope of work included the complete demolition of the existing restaurant structure, complete renovation of the bar and newly repurposed restaurant areas, new construction of additional event facilities, and the renovation of existing meeting rooms. Throughout all this work, the number one challenge was to not diminish the guest experience for the Ritz Carlton customers. Construction is inherently noisy so the disruption of the guest was an always present opportunity to manage.
The detail and management of the project schedule was a major key to the success of the project. With limited windows of opportunity to perform certain tasks and the numerous area and MEP shut downs necessitated by the demolition, new construction, and renovation, close coordination with hotel management was essential. Much of this work was performed during the overnight hours to mitigate any impacts to hotel operations.
Another challenge during this project was the existing restaurant structure was completely demolished leaving a significant open area in the skin of the building while the structure for the new event facility was constructed. Not only did the noise and logistical disruption of this work have to be coordinated and managed, but the weather and natural elements had to be kept out of the operating hotel. Shell McElroy worked closely with the project team to provide a secure and weather tight barrier between the active work areas and operating hotel.
Hospitality renovation work is challenging, but with effective planning and communication throughout the process, those challenges can be effectively managed.