At quitting time today I took the time to explore the North Star suite of the Hazelnut Inn. I was amazed at every detail that I saw and fiercely proud as well. That undoubtedly sounds strange to many as I often receive a lion-sized portion of the credit for what comes out of our shop. The reality is that Peter has been the leader of the Imagination Corporation for well over eight years. Imagination Corporation and the Hazelnut Inn belong to him and his wife Hailey. I have purposely taken a big step back on the Inn project from the start to ensure it is theirs in every way possible. My primary job these days is helper (as I am able) and fiercely loyal cheerleader. Like a backseat driver, I often make comments and suggestions (sometimes heeded) but the creative decisions and direction we travel are determined by the guy at the wheel - as it absolutely should be. Those who have followed our work over the long term have noticed a marked difference in quality, style and detail under Peter’s leadership. He learned all I could teach him in our formative and growing decades and then as he took charge, Peter raised the bar and fine-tuned every process and method to take every single project over the top. In Peter’s words, ‘he stood on my shoulders to take things to the next level.’ What a wonderful adventure it has been! Just imagine where we will go from here. I’ll be watching with absolute glee from the backseat!
Glow center
The fireplace in the North Star suite of the Hazelnut Inn is quite unlike any other. While we first considered a real, working fireplace, practicality won the day as a functioning fireplace would have made it impossible to regulate the temperature inside the 600-square-foot multi-levelled space. So it is now for ambiance and effect only. A flickering bulb inside will create the proper glow through the decorative face. The heavy steel facade is real and is hand-hammered to the complex shape. Our ears are still ringing months later. :)
First furniture
This week the North Star suite at the Hazelnut Inn got its first piece of furniture. Like everything in the boutique hotel, it is custom-designed and fabricated. And as is usual it will be overbuilt to ensure a lifetime of trouble-free service. The bed frame is fabricated from heavy-duty plasma-cut steel and then welded together in place. The under base is offset to allow a hidden LED light strip underneath, adding a magical glow around the bed. With the bed permanently fastened in place we can lay the tile around it. Stay tuned for more…
