{"id":12076,"date":"2026-10-05T15:15:27","date_gmt":"2026-10-05T15:15:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/kevinbarry.com\/?p=12076"},"modified":"2026-10-05T15:15:28","modified_gmt":"2026-10-05T15:15:28","slug":"qa-hotel-polaris","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/kevinbarry.com\/qa-hotel-polaris\/","title":{"rendered":"Q&A with Foreman Rogers"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Designing Hotel Polaris was a true collaboration of architecture, interiors, and art to create a hospitality experience rooted in the spirit of flight. We sat down with Foreman Rogers, Owner and Principal of BLUR Workshop, to discuss the design philosophy behind the project, the importance of storytelling through collaboration, and how the landscapes and traditions of Colorado Springs shaped every aspect of the guest experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Let\u2019s start with an overview about BLUR workshop, your design philosophy, and the types of experiences you strive to create through hospitality design.<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

BLUR Workshop is an Atlanta-based architecture and hospitality interior design firm guided by the principle of designing without boundaries. We believe that no challenge is too complex, and we embrace diverse needs as opportunities to create thoughtful, meaningful, and innovative design solutions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Our philosophy is rooted in the belief that exceptional design emerges when the traditional lines between architecture and interiors begin to blur. By considering the guest experience holistically\u2014from the building itself to the smallest interior detail\u2014we create environments that are cohesive, authentic, and memorable. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This integrated approach is made possible by a talented team of well-rounded design professionals who share a commitment to creativity, collaboration, and excellence. Every project is an opportunity to push boundaries, challenge convention, and deliver spaces that are as functional as they are inspiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Hotel Polaris is a project KBAA has been fortunate to collaborate on alongside your team. What initially excited you about the opportunity, and what made this project unique from the outset?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The opportunity to work on the United States Airforce Academy Property and design a hotel near such Iconic Piece of American Architecture was a once in a lifetime chance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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From your perspective, what makes for a successful collaboration between an interior design team and an art advisory team? How did BLUR and KBAA work together to build a cohesive vision for Hotel Polaris?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Communication is essential. We conduct thorough research for every project to develop a clear narrative that carries the design from concept to completion. Interior designers must present this narrative clearly to the art consultant and invite their creative input. Lean on art consultants to help tell the hotel\u2019s story. The art becomes the narrative\u2019s voice: local artists lend authenticity, context and texture. Engaging the art consultant early gives them time to research local talent and present a wide range of thoughtful options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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This issue of ELEVATE by KBAA explores the theme of “Elemental Expression.” How did the natural surroundings of Colorado Springs influence the overall design direction for the property?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The art was influenced by the Academy\u2019s international Style Architecture but more importantly the Cadets themselves past, present and future.  The hotel acts as a front door to the Academy and the images we used compliment the design but also give glimpses of what one might see on campus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The hotel sits at the foot of the Rocky Mountains with incredible views of Pikes Peak and the Front Range. How did you ensure those landscapes remained central to the guest experience?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Everything about this project is rooted in a profound sense of place. The Front Range and the Air Force Academy\u2014framed like a living canvas\u2014are the primary actors shaping the architecture and interior story. The hotel reads as an observatory for that view: every gesture, material, and sightline choreographs the experience of sunset from the rooftop deck, gathered around the fire, or lounging by the pool. Spaces are composed to frame the horizon, to slow time, and to amplify those ritual moments when light and landscape quietly become the guest\u2019s true destination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The design palette feels intentionally restrained and modern. What inspired that approach, and how does it help frame the rugged beauty of the surrounding environment?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Our approach was guided by the modernist principles that informed the Academy’s original architecture. The restrained design language creates a deliberate contrast with the dramatic natural landscape, framing views and allowing the rugged setting to remain the focal point. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Color was used with equal intention. Applied boldly yet sparingly, it both contrasts with and echoes the surrounding environment while strengthening the connection to the Academy. The use of the Academy’s signature red, blue, and gold palette establishes a visual link between the hotel and the campus it welcomes guests to explore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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When designing a destination rooted in such a dramatic landscape, how do you translate intangible qualities like light, atmosphere, movement, and scale into physical spaces?<\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Light was never a challenge for this project. One of the greatest assets of this part of Colorado is its abundance of natural light, and our goal was to create as little separation as possible between the interior and the surrounding landscape. Large expanses of glass, open gathering spaces, and carefully framed views blur the boundary between indoors and out, allowing the landscape to become an integral part of the guest experience. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Event Deck, located on the roof of the conference center, was conceived as a large, elevated porch that immerses guests in the landscape. From this vantage point, visitors can watch gliders, skydivers, and aircraft training overhead throughout the day. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Academy and the Rocky Mountains, these moments become living sculptures in the sky\u2014an experience that is uniquely tied to the Academy and its remarkable setting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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How did themes of flight, aspiration, and exploration inform the design without becoming overly literal?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

To further celebrate the Academy’s setting, we commissioned a Denver-based artist to create a series of abstract topographical collages inspired by the surrounding landscape. The artwork evokes the experience of viewing the terrain from above, recalling the perspective of flight and reinforcing the Academy’s deep connection to aviation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Suspended above the grand staircase is a large-scale mobile by Colorado artist Robert Delaney. Its graceful movement and seemingly weightless form reference the optimism and innovation of the modern era in which the Academy was built. The sculpture brings a sense of motion and lightness to the space while serving as a contemporary interpretation of the Academy’s architectural legacy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Were there particular architectural moments where you saw opportunities for art to help deepen the story of place?<\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

We partnered with the Academy’s campus photographer\u2014a former cadet and Air Force employee\u2014whose unique access allowed us to capture authentic images of the campus and cadet life that most civilians would never have the opportunity to see. These exclusive photographs became an important part of the storytelling throughout the space. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

One of the most meaningful features we created was a wall titled “A Day in the Life.” It combines historic archival photography with contemporary images of today’s cadets, illustrating the enduring traditions, values, and daily experiences that connect generations of Academy graduates. The installation was intentionally designed to be dynamic, allowing new photographs to be incorporated over time so the display continues to evolve with each new class while preserving the Academy’s rich history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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As the art program developed, were there any concepts, materials, or storytelling themes that emerged through the collaboration that inspired you? Any art moments that you particularly love?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

While aviation naturally became a recurring theme throughout the project, we wanted to move well beyond the obvious imagery of aircraft. Our goal was to capture the many dimensions of flight as it is experienced by the cadets themselves. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

One of the most fascinating discoveries was the Academy’s glider program. At first glance, gliding appears simple, but it is incredibly technical. Watching cadets learn to read the air, understand thermals, and make constant adjustments to navigate safely back to the airfield was a powerful metaphor for leadership, decision-making, and discipline. That experience inspired several design elements throughout the project. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

We also spent a day with the Academy’s parachute program. Rather than simply completing a jump, the cadets were challenged to land on designated targets, requiring precision, focus, and an exceptional level of skill. It reinforced that every aspect of their training is purposeful and demands continuous learning and refinement. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

While we certainly incorporated iconic Air Force aircraft and aviation imagery where appropriate, we were intentional about telling a broader story. We wanted the environment to celebrate not just the machines, but the experiences, challenges, and personal growth that define life at the Academy. Flight became less about airplanes and more about aspiration, mastery, and the pursuit of excellence\u2014qualities that are woven throughout every cadet’s journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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If guests leave Hotel Polaris remembering one feeling or impression, what do you hope that is?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

We hope guests leave Hotel Polaris with a deeper understanding of the United States Air Force Academy and a genuine appreciation for what it represents. Beyond the stunning campus and impressive architecture, the Academy is a place where character, leadership, discipline, and service are developed every day. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If our design helps guests better understand the commitment these young men and women make\u2014and leaves them feeling a sense of pride in the Academy’s mission and the people who pass through it\u2014then we’ve accomplished what we set out to do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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If you\u2019d like to see more details about the art program at Hotel Polaris, check out our latest issue of Elevate by KBAA<\/a>. We’re grateful to the BLUR Workshop team for their partnership and look forward to creating more meaningful hospitality experiences together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

BLUR Workshop Owner and Principal Foreman Rogers sits down with KBAA to share the thinking behind our work with Hotel Polaris<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8,"featured_media":12080,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1,38],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-12076","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-kbaa-updates","category-designer-qas"],"yoast_head":"\nQ&A with Foreman Rogers - KBAA<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"The refreshed Moxy Banff blends bold personality with regional influence. 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