Welcome to Elevate Hotel Design, the podcast where Lorraine Francis delves into the artistry and strategy behind today’s hospitality spaces. In this special episode, broadcasting from the stunning showroom of Taber Company in Irvine, we explore the craftsmanship and innovation of Brian Taber, founder and principal of Taber Company. With over two decades of experience, Brian has led his company to blend old-world craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology, serving luxury hospitality, retail, and residential projects across Southern California. Join us as Brian discusses the essence of building a brand, shares his insights on successful project partnerships, and takes us on an exclusive tour of the factory, showcasing the intricate process of architectural woodwork and the importance of teamwork and quality. This episode is a deep dive into the world of custom millwork and is filled with inspiring stories and valuable industry insights.
00:00 Introduction to Elevate Hotel Design Podcast
00:18 Meet Brian Taber of Taber Company
01:22 The Craftsmanship Behind Taber Company
01:57 Building Relationships in the Industry
04:16 Early Days and Evolution of Taber Company
06:03 Challenges and Solutions in Millwork Projects
10:16 Exploring Taber Company’s Showroom
13:47 Core Values and Family Involvement
18:34 Showroom Tour and Design Details
21:09 Discussing Stone Work and Subcontracting
21:57 Exploring the Lounge and Surf Event Sponsorship
22:52 Touring the Project Management and Engineering Areas23:18 Employee Longevity and Company Culture
24:55 Factory Operations and Efficiency
25:48 Sustainability and Waste Management
26:33 Cabinet Production Process
29:34 Upholstery and Craftsmanship
30:39 Mockups and Custom Projects
35:07 Break Room and Employee Care
37:30 Concluding the Tour and Final Thoughts