Why In-House Project Management Matters for Hotel Renovations

By Whitney Nelson, IQ Designs

Whitney Nelson

When it comes to hotel renovations, there are countless ways for a project to go off track: missed deadlines, budget overruns, design misalignment, and stakeholder frustration. That’s why having in-house design and project management isn’t just a convenience. It’s a strategic advantage.

At IQ Designs, the in-house design firm at Brittain Resorts & Hotels, we lead every project from the first spark of inspiration through final installation. We don’t just create beautiful spaces—we deliver practical solutions that support operations, enhance the guest experience, and increase the long-term value of the asset.

Whitney Nelson

Whitney Nelson

President & Lead Designer
iQ designs

Alignment

One of the most important advantages of working with an in-house team is the constant alignment. Communication is clear and consistent. Trust is already established. Transparency is baked into every step. Our team has visibility into the full picture—not just the design—but also operations, ownership priorities, and long-term goals.

We maintain strong relationships with stakeholders and property teams throughout the process, ensuring alignment and reducing friction. Our role isn’t limited to design; we act as collaborative partners who share responsibility for the success of the project.

Procurement

Procurement has become one of the most critical components of a successful renovation, and our ability to manage it in-house allows for greater control and efficiency. We provide real-time updates, accurate cost data, and proactive problem solving. By overseeing sourcing and logistics internally, we can streamline timelines, avoid costly delays, and make informed adjustments quickly when challenges arise.

That level of integration allows us to think ahead. We anticipate supply chain issues, lead times, and shifting material costs, often solving problems before they impact the project.

Operational and Financial Results

Design isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s a tool to drive results. Our approach prioritizes durability, functionality, and guest satisfaction. Every product and material we specify is selected for both performance and style, with the understanding that hospitality spaces demand high standards.

We also focus on long-term value. Through thoughtful, forward-thinking design and consistent application across a property, we help elevate average rate potential, improve guest reviews, and ensure a cohesive brand experience. Bulk purchasing allows us to deliver high-quality materials and furnishings at more competitive prices than would be possible through individual procurement.

This work is grounded in the understanding that every decision we make impacts the performance of the property. We operate with the same sense of urgency, care, and accountability as the hotel ownership group because we’re on the same team.

Our in-house partnership between operations and design creates a seamless process, from vision to execution. That’s the power of embedded project management, and it’s why we believe our model offers owners a clear advantage.

Brittain Resorts & Hotels (BRH) is a full-service hospitality management company providing multi-layered expertise in all disciplines of hotel and resort operations. Since 1943, BRH has been enriching the lives of its team members, guests, partners, and the communities they serve by providing exceptional guest experiences, a supportive work environment, and superior returns. With over 4,700+ rooms, suites, and condos in the portfolio, the company currently operates 30+ hotels and resorts and 45+ restaurants & bars within the United States.

Media Contact:
Patrick Norton
Chief Marketing Officer
Phone: (843) 282-7359
[email protected]

We specialize in complicated projects. To talk through your options with Brittain Resorts & Hotels, contact Chief Development Officer Christy Jernigan at [email protected].

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