Any major construction project faces challenges, and the Mystic Marriott was no exception. The design of the building, according to the wishes of the owners, called for flexibility � so that expansion would be possible if needed in future years � and much larger public spaces than typical for a hotel of its size, including meeting facilities in excess of 25,000 square feet and a 9,000-square foot full-service spa.  A wetlands area needed to be protected. The site itself, easily accessible from Interstate-95, presented its own challenge.   And, the boom economy was not kind to Wolman and the Mystic Marriott project, with labor costs rising as much as 50 percent. 

Design challenges were addressed in a number of ways.  Value engineering saved money and ensured quick construction through the use of Dryvit exteriors that allowed for architectural detailing called for in the plans, and through a decision to use a staggered-truss steel structural system.The decision to locate all public spaces on the ground floor also saved money and more easily accommodated the demand for more than 25,000 square feet of meeting space, as well as the spa.The design also allows for an additional 70 rooms should they be needed.The architect designer for the project was Brennan Beer Gorman, and interior designer was Brennan Beer Gorman Monk, both internationally recognized leaders in hospitality industry design.

To accommodate wetlands requirements, Wolman Construction and its engineers were required to thoroughly research the area to identify soil composition and wetlands vegetation and then obtain permits from the Army Corps of Engineers and several municipal agencies.In consultation with Dicesare-Bentley Engineers, Inc. of Groton and Soil and Environmental Services of East Lyme, Connecticut, the solution that was executed involved building retention basins which included plantings that help purify rain and storm water from the site.

In collaboration with Russ Tuthill of Sunset Designs and Gardens of North Stonington, Connecticut, William B. Kuhl, a New York landscape architecture firm, also faced challenges with the site.In creating this exquisite facility, the goal was to capitalize on the surrounding woods and reservoir, to assure a private �feel� for the destination, particularly since the hotel would be highly visible in all four seasons.The first hurdle that was overcome was the removal of 3000 cubic yards of rock and unsuitable soils, and replacement with sufficient suitable soils upon which to paint a landscape, which was expertly executed by Milton Beebe & Sons, Inc. Together, Sunset Designs and Kuhl designed a palette of landscaping, including deciduous and evergreen trees and flowering shrubs that would appeal in all four seasons, and then offering a selection of flowering vegetation in each season.The excavated rock was used to create attractive slopes.The parking lot was designed in consideration of protecting several mature trees from removal. 

Finally, Wolman Construction was faced with mounting labor costs and shortages, which put significant strains on the project�s budget.Wolman turned to its greatest strength of teamwork with their reputable subcontractors, who could ensure a competent and efficient labor force, as well as provide creative ideas for increased productivity, cost savings, and optimal alternatives for this project.While hundreds of people made it all happen, the major subcontractor team consisted of:

• Kennedy Electric, Torrington, CT - electrical systems and components 
• Encompass, Hartford, CT - HVAC 
• MSI, Inc., Niantic, CT � plumbing 
• Intext Building Systems, South Glastonbury, CT � interior framing and drywall 
• Allstate Fire Sprinkler, Hartford, CT � fire and life safety systems 
• WDJ Construction, Inc., South Glastonbury, CT � trim and millwork 
• TS Flooring, Wallingford, CT �carpet and flooring 
• Interiors by Provident, Smithfield, RI � painting and wallcovering 
• Milton Beebe & Sons, Inc., Storrs,CT - sitework 

It is truly the hallmark of what Wolman is all about.The company, under the direction of President Mark Wolman, has achieved steady growth in both commercial and residential construction based on a commitment to �no surprises� client communication and involvement, accessibility to company management, and outstanding cost control.

The $47-million Mystic Marriott, with scenic views of the Poheganut Reservoir as a backdrop, features 285 rooms, more than 25,000 square feet of meeting space, a 145-seat steakhouse restaurant, a bar and lounge, a Starbucks Coffee Bar, and the Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa, Connecticut�s first and only prestigious Red Door. 

Waterford Hotel Group, a national hotel management firm currently operating 26 properties in 11 states, will manage the property, which is being built by Wolman Construction of Waterford.