Early memories of working together?
Tracey Sawyer: Since we both had experience running our own companies before we launched Krause Sawyer, we knew it was wise to not take on too much overhead at once. We also knew we wanted to be in a great neighborhood and in an open space that would inspire us, as well as our team members. One of our first exciting moments was finding an amazing sublet in a SoHo loft fully built out with a short-term commitment. When we first opened the company, we brought in staff that we already had experience working with in the past, and most of the team members we brought on for freelance quickly became fulltime as the business solidified.
Big break?
Kajsa Krause: We had been invited to compete with about eight to 10 other firms for a project involving the Hyatt in Times Square. We apparently made a great impression with our design proposal but ultimately weren’t awarded the project. Shortly thereafter and via another competition, we were awarded the guestroom initiative from Marriott to explore and envision a new direction in design for Marriott—one that would focus on today’s changing traveler’s needs and tastes. During that process, the Atlanta Marriott Marquis was up for a significant renovation. The owner was the same owner of the Hyatt Times Square. They were impressed with our work for that project and when they found out that we were the designers of the initiative, we got the call. We were awarded the project and went to work on 1,600 guestrooms and suites.
A wood feature wall stands behind the bed in a Westin Times Square suite.
Firm motto?
TS: Our office motto is cool, calm, and connected. We approach our projects with a sense of ease and effortlessness, and it’s important for our team to take a thoughtful and calm approach to each project to ensure the best results for our clients.
What are each other’s strengths and weaknesses?
TS: We inspire and challenge each other to constantly reach further as designers, as well as to stay nimble and agile as business owners. We have very similar strengths: a shared eye for natural, luxurious design, the desire to understand and improve processes, and complementing personalities. We are both perfectionists with competitive personalities and sometimes we have to remind one another when it’s time to let go.
The linear and minimal design at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis.
Tell us about your design process.
KK: We find inspiration when traveling, both on vacation and for business; we also look to details in art, installations, fashion and product design, and, of course, nature, given our upbringing and international background—Tracey is from Canada, and I’m from Sweden. The key to our design process is to first understand the clients’ needs and desires, finding a storyline in the local context and then delivering a thoughtful, well-directed experience.
Project that showcases your firm?
KK: One recent project we have been particularly excited about is the Canopy by Hilton at the Wharf in Washington, DC. This project will showcase a thoughtful and youthful expression of a locale, while reflecting the brand’s DNA. It’s going to be the first Canopy by Hilton in the Americas located in one of the largest developments that’s in progress in the U.S. at the moment and is scheduled to open this fall. We worked closely with Larry Traxler [senior vice president of global design for Hilton] and the Canopy team to explore what this ground-up lifestyle hotel in this location should be. We love the details from the 3D artwork to the layout and function of the common space, as well as the spectacular rooftop bar (the views will be incredible).
TS: Another project is [the renovation of] the Andaz Fifth Avenue in New York, which is currently in progress. It is timeless, tasteful, architectural, and sophisticated. The suite on the second floor has incredible views down Fifth Avenue and across to the public library and was the perfect opportunity to showcase what we feel is natural, contemporary luxury.
The Westin Times Square penthouse boasts skyline views.
Project you are looking forward to?
KK: We are really looking forward to seeing [the Hotel Fort Des Moines, part of Hilton’s Curio collection] evolve. It’s a really interesting ambitious client who is excited and open to explore new ideas. It’s a historic renovation in a landmark building with a rich story to tell.
What is your dream project?
TS: To design a beautiful and thoughtful resort—one that would exemplify casual, contemporary, and natural luxury with a conscience. Another dream is to one day design a luxury train car that can serve as an immersive transportation experience. The idea of luxury accommodations on the move in general are very interesting to us, whether it’s trains, yachts, or planes, we would love to explore that more in the future as well.
Metal and wood mix in the Marriott Brooklyn Bridge.
Biggest challenge of owning your firm?
KK: Balancing the project workload with the cost of running a business, all while nurturing a strong team and building team leaders.
Biggest challenge about your partnership?
TS: As we grow, we do contemplate making our roles slightly more specific, which will have its challenges given our overlap of talent and passion.
