Mittman Interview with Stina Funch

We recently invited Stina Funch, the Founder, President, and Creative Director of Atwater Inc., to chat with us about our collaboration on the Hoodoo Moab hotel project. As the furniture manufacturer responsible for the furniture at the Hoodoo Moab hotel, we were eager to hear Stina’s expertise in the hospitality design field, and her experience taking projects from initial development to final execution.

During our discussion, Stina shared her unique insights on how to create a cohesive design aesthetic that complements the overall vision of the Hoodoo Moab hotel while still catering to the specific needs of its guests. We found the conversation to be incredibly insightful and valuable for our continued success in creating furniture for the hospitality industry.

What’s the design concept for Hoodoo Moab?

Moab is a beautiful destination. We quickly realized that we could not compete with the surrounding beautiful scenery, we had to compliment it.

Hoodoo was inspired by the Colorado River and the red rock mountains of the Arches National Park. Our design of the HooDoo tells the stories of explorers discovering and celebrating the dramatic and remarkable nature. A warm and neutral scheme sets the tone as the main color palette of the hotel, infused with effervescent terracotta accents.

As the Uranium capitol of the world Moab’s remarkable historical era is featured in our design with accents of raw metal and earth minerals. The dramatic décor throughout the main spaces express the independent and authentic personality of the Hotel.

The biggest challenge and success you have for this project?

HooDoo was a labor of love.. – It was built on a dream and Vision that Mike Bynum and Gina Giffin shared with us. It took almost 7 years to bring the vision to life. When a project like this receives amazing support, success and recognition it becomes an amazing journey for not only me, but the entire team.

Why did you choose to partner with Mittman?

When you choose a partner in anything it’s about respect, understanding, flexibility, capability and the ability to create something beautiful. Mittman understands what we do, and what we want to achieve. The communication and understanding we have is wonderful and second to none.

What was the most challenging piece of furniture? What made it challenging?

All pieces are challenging, but some require more coordination than others. From elegant boulder looking front desks, to leather strapped benches, curved sofas and accent petrified wood tables.

How did Mittman help you realize your design vision?

Through many conversations, drawings and samples. Mittman’s team is able to understand our vision and help us make it come alive.

What are some valuable lessons you have learned from this project?

Stick to your values, and your core believes and built it that way… Only then will it be amazing.. be patient, it takes time but it is oh so worth it!

How did you feel when you won first prize in international competition for this project?

Nothing short of Amazing! I love what I do for a living, it’s my passion. It takes a great team to make a project like this happen, and I am lucky to have amazing people around me. It’s wonderful to be recognized for the passion you have.