Upgrading the Meeting Facilities
Host Marriott's Franklin Hall originally consisted of an open floor totaling 34,000sf. It was transformed into a more lively and useful space. By gutting the entire area and installing over 1,500lf of operable wall partitions, our team transformed this open space into 13 flexible separate breakout and meeting rooms ranging in size from 1,000sf to 1,700sf. Structural steel was installed to support the new wall system.
The space is equipped with cutting-edge audio/visual and communications technology, highlighted with a high-end wood veneer feature wall comprised of multiple 42-inch flat screen plasma monitors.
Project Challenges
The team was challenged with large, low hanging duct work and piping and noisy mechanical systems which interfered with the hotels desired aesthetics. Areas of the ceiling are ‘floating’ ceilings comprised of drywall bulkheads with acoustic ceiling tiles in the center. Other areas are open ceilings with a view leading to the floor above. This gave the illusion that the space was actually taller than it is. Mechanical elements were painted black to disguise them.
Additional challenges included a difficult schedule, active environment and various noise restrictions and required work stoppage. By working closely with the trades on a multi-shift schedule, we were able to deliver to Host Marriott a finished project that met the all of their goals.
