Faulkner Design Group's Dedicated Partnership with NTS: A Multifamily Interior Design Case Study on Hurstbourne Grand Apartments
For more than three decades, Faulkner Design Group (FDG) and NTS have cultivated a remarkable partnership that has consistently created successful projects as well as continued to elevate the multifamily garden apartment community, Hurstbourne Grand, located in Louisville, KY. With holdings in several states, NTS stands as the largest developer in Kentucky, renowned for its strategic investments and impeccable property management. NTS' long-term ownership of Hurstbourne for the past fifty years speaks to its exceptional value and resilience, and FDG has been instrumental in renovating it, now three times – once every 10 years, not due to wear and tear, but to update it with a fresh, modern style. Take a look as we dive into this multifamily interior design case study on Hurstbourne Grand Apartments and the approach we take to successfully reposition projects within their markets.
How It Began
The journey began when FDG’s founder and CEO, Adrienne Faulkner, crossed paths with Brian Lavin, President and CEO of NTS, at a conference. This encounter marked the beginning of a fruitful partnership spanning multiple decades and projects. In a recent interview with Greg McDearmon, a Senior Vice President at NTS, he shared the journey of how reimagining Hurstbourne came into focus. Greg underscored the significance of Hurstbourne, situated at a pivotal thoroughfare for those heading to downtown Louisville. The property uniquely serves a diverse family-oriented demographic drawn by its location and sense of community. The residents have grown to appreciate Hurstbourne's spaciousness in unit square footage and amenity spaces, uncommon in other communities.
Greg's insights into NTS' approach to property management and renovation showcased their commitment to the long-term perspective. He emphasized NTS' investment in quality maintenance and upgrades to uphold their properties' allure and value over time. The recent refresh at Hurstbourne, accomplished in collaboration with FDG, exemplifies this commitment. Greg explained how NTS' proactive planning led to the decision to renovate the clubhouse and various aspects of the property. NTS’ dedication and unwavering commitment to maintaining their properties immaculately enables FDG to design with longevity in mind, using durable, commercial-grade furnishings and a timeless, neutral palette that stays stylistically present. The result is an environment that remains welcoming and fresh for residents, reducing the need for frequent renovations.
Design Process
This phased renovation project addressed both interiors and exteriors. From the leasing office and common areas to model apartments and guest suites, FDG meticulously redesigned these spaces to exude warmth, elegance, and modernity while providing enduring products that support long-term resident use. FDG embarked on crafting the interior package for the units and implementing economical adjustments to the floor plans. Following this initial phase, the attention turned to revitalizing the clubhouse, a venture that posed its own set of challenges. The clubhouse's dimensions were constrained by the design norms of its era, a time marked by less open plans. One such challenge involved the clubhouse entrance opening into a confined hallway. Determined to enhance accessibility and spatial flow, the two teams devised a strategic approach, resulting in the successful expansion and reconfiguration of the space. NTS' trust in our services allowed us the creative freedom to innovate while maintaining a timeless appeal. This collaboration between two industry leaders fostered an environment where design flourished, and visions were realized.
Hurstbourne's latest iteration takes inspiration from the lush grounds surrounding the property, pulling rich tones from nature and features a piece from Donn Delson's aerial landscape photography series. The use of natural stone, wood tones, and brick upholds the classic architectural details while providing the spaces with a sense of sophistication. The centerpiece fireplace, subtly enhanced with ribbed porcelain tile and stone, provides a gathering spot for families that leaves a lasting impression on visitors.
Resident lounge before & after
Resident clubhouse kitchen before & after
Leasing office before & after
Business office before & after
Financial Considerations
The collaboration between FDG and NTS embodies a seamless synergy of visionary planning, precise execution, and maximizing the budget dollars, all resulting in spaces that transcend fleeting trends and endure the trials of time. As NTS continues its mission of fostering vibrant communities, their partnership with FDG stands as a compelling testament to the profound impact that commitment, ingenuity, and shared principles can achieve. Greg emphasized Adrienne's insightful approach to assembling a team, consistently yielding exceptional outcomes.
“She possesses a remarkable skill for curating individuals who seamlessly align with the NTS ethos, a trait highly valued by NTS. The cooperative atmosphere nurtured by Faulkner Design Group is not only cordial but deeply focused on effective issue resolution.”
Operating on a foundation of accountability and collaboration, rather than blame-shifting, underscores the partnership's integrity. While challenges are inevitable, it's in how we address them that true excellence shines. Throughout the process, we hold the utmost respect for one another, ensuring constructive management of any concerns. This unwavering professionalism and dedication solidify our preference for Faulkner Design Group as an integral part of our design team. Our trust in them is well-founded; we abstain from the practice of competitive bidding. Their comprehensive grasp of our objectives, combined with their readiness to collaboratively devise plans, sets them apart. NTS' unwavering focus on quality standards, rather than mere cost-cutting, amplifies the results achieved within budget constraints. While others might be swayed by lower bids, the real value lies in multiplying outcomes for the investment.
This philosophy was strikingly evident in another recent NTS property, where a skillfully executed design and millwork upgrade investment not only revitalized the property but elevated its value to a point where selling it became an enticing prospect. FDG’s design dexterity often enhances the situation where the primary investment yields a heightened return, creating a multiplier effect that surpasses initial financial forecasts.
NTS’ Culture
In addition to their exceptional properties, NTS has cultivated a culture that prioritizes its employees and partners. Greg McDearmon's thoughtful gesture of inviting FDG to provide an excerpt on the design process, which was then shared with all NTS employees, exemplifies their appreciation for their team. Moreover, Greg's offer of a property tour of the newly renovated Hurstbourne Grand extended to the entire company, allowing everyone to be actively involved in the renovated community’s reveal. This inclusive approach reflects NTS's commitment to recognizing the value they bring as a development and management company to lives of the communities they serve.
Project Success
The success of the Hurstbourne project can be attributed to the exceptional trust and creative freedom that NTS bestowed upon FDG along with its trusted partners. With a shared vision and commitment to delivering outstanding results, FDG had the opportunity to push the boundaries of interior architecture and create spaces that reflected the unique needs of the community. With each renovation, FDG elevates the living experience for residents, and NTS' dedication to maintaining their properties to the highest standards ensures that their vision is brought to life with excellence.
“Working alongside NTS and the team at FDG was an incredible experience. They are the perfect client and I really admire their ability to find true value in people and relationships. The trust and creative freedom NTS provided allowed us to exceed expectations and create something truly special.”
As the partnership between FDG and NTS continues to flourish, both companies remain committed to designing communities that stand the test of time, providing residents with a welcoming and enriching place to call home. With their shared values and commitment to innovation, the future holds exciting possibilities for the ongoing collaboration between Faulkner Design Group and NTS.
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