From inside to outside – and everything in between – when it comes to hospitality renovation Continental has (just about) done it all. After 20 years in hospitality renovation, we’ve never grown tired of the satisfaction we get from breathing new life into an old space, helping it become new again. And, while we may have started out as experts in guestroom renovations, we’ve made a significant mark in public space projects, too.

We love it when a great public space comes together. Here’s a sampling of some of the public space projects Continental has had the pleasure of working on within the recent past – and the details that make them stand out in our minds as some of the best.

Marriott Pittsburgh North

Tucked away in the beautiful Pennsylvania suburb of Cranberry Woods, the Marriott Pittsburgh North brings the dramatic and extravagant temperament of “the steel city” inside. The impressive focal points of the property express every form and texture that steel can possess: molten, rigid, bent, smooth, rusted, even reflective.

Continental stepped into this public space renovation on very short notice and quickly mobilized to bring the modern design to life. The key design element of the renovation required the installation of more than 15,000 sf of stained shiplap throughout the space, however, supply chain issues and staff shortages across the country threatened that vision. “The biggest potential obstacle we faced was the amount of millwork required for this project,” recalled Sr. Project Manager Jerome Zadera. “During COVID, most plants were shut down, and the unique millwork was a huge component of our work — it really defined the project.” Through multiple manufacturing plant site visits and creative problem-solving with both sourcing and logistics, Continental was ultimately able to complete the full scope of the project on time.  

Thanks to teamwork and communication, Continental transformed the Marriott Pittsburgh North atrium and lobby from a dated, tropical jungle scape, to a sleek, contemporary, and welcoming space in just five short months. “The transformation was remarkable. What once looked like a scene from the Amazon jungle is a breathtakingly beautiful lobby that feels welcoming and modern,” Jerome said.

 

We mobilized efficiently as a team, and created a space that everyone was extremely happy with.”
– Jerome Zadera

A hotel lobby gives patrons their first impression of your property. Make it count. View photos from the stunning Pittsburgh Marriott North conversion here. 

Hilton Bayfront

A fresh and modern take on the quintessential coastal state of mind, the Hilton Bayfront San Diego, steps from the Gaslamp Quarter, delivers unparalleled views at every turn. Having completed a guestroom renovation in 2019, Continental returned to the Bayfront in 2021 to lead a complete renovation of public spaces within the property over the course of 11 months. A floor-to-ceiling renovation was necessary to accommodate a complete HVAC system overhaul – which resulted in a beautiful new restaurant/bar; lobby entrance and escalator area; buffet and indoor/outdoor event space as well as a market area for hotel patrons. The intricate design details of the project, like custom tile, ceiling fixtures, and millwork, required the sourcing and installation of an abundance of specialty items – again, all while facing nationwide supply chain issues. 

 

“This was a very challenging renovation,” recalls Project Manager Dan Sciortino, “We installed a new HVAC system throughout as well as an abundance of specialty items and had to do it all through COVID while also dealing with nationwide supply chain issues.” Once again, with great teamwork and a little creative problem-solving, Continental was able to source and install the intricate design details required to make the vibrant and inviting atmosphere a reality.  

The photos don’t give the project justice in showing the vast scope of this renovation, but they do illustrate the breadth of experience, expertise, and teamwork Continental Contractors brings to each and every job.”
– Dan Sciortino

Get all of the intricate details about the Hilton Bayfront renovation here.

Carmel Mission Inn

Carmel California offers a picturesque backdrop in every direction, making it an ideal destination for tourists and artists alike. Continental Contractors had the pleasure of visiting central California’s Carmel-by-the-Sea in 2021 for a public space renovation at a boutique hotel just off the iconic Pacific Coast Highway. 

Continental worked closely with a local architecture and design firm to refresh and revitalize the gathering spaces of the Carmel Mission Inn. “Continental completed a total interior public space makeover of the hotel lobby and front desk area, meeting rooms, public restrooms, as well as the new restaurant and bar, Shearwood Tavern,” recalls Continental Sr. Vice President Danny Welch. The Continental team facilitated the installation of the distinctive yet natural local materials necessary for the coastal-inspired aesthetic. Expertly installed details like chevron wood floors, lighting fixtures, hand-crafted tiles, plus custom millwork and shiplap detailing were intricate to the creative, playful, and welcoming style of the property.

 

Continental also renovated the exterior patio – a must-see for any California visitor. The renovation for this serene public space included strategically placed fire pits for year-round use, landscaping, pavers, and mosaic tile designed to mimic an outdoor rug. The result? A beautiful outdoor space for anyone looking to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery.  

Functional and attractive outdoor public spaces can be a draw for guests looking for that luxury resort feel. Don’t underestimate their potential when you’re planning your next renovation. View the Carmel Mission Inn photos here. 

When it comes to public space renovations, you want expertise and experience on your side. You want Continental.

 

Public spaces require a lot of attention to the details meant to make these areas stand out. It gives me a lot of pride knowing that those small details came out the way they should have – and often even better than planned. Our superintendents and field teams gain a lot of pride in that too. 
– Project Manager Jerome Zadera