There’s nothing more inviting to a weary traveler than a steaming hot cup of coffee and a warm pastry. Dunkin Donuts has cornered this market in numerous airports across the country, and TMG has played a key role in constructing the popular concession at Washington Dulles International Airport.

Tight schedule constraints sent the TMG project team, led by Ken Matuszewski (superintendent), Jim Coots (superintendent) and John Warren (project manager), scrambling to install a kiosk and storage area adjacent to Gate D-6 for Westfield Concession Management Inc. Installation included kitchen equipment, millwork, and fabrication/installation of a platform for a kiosk contoured to sit on a sloped floor. A new storage area also was created to house the water heater and electrical panels.

Challenges included installing millwork and equipment quickly, with Ken and Jim working exceptionally long hours to expedite the project. Work was complicated by having almost no storage space on site due to other construction in the area. To remedy the storage shortage, the TMG team had to store materials in the company lot and bring them in as needed. The working space was equally cramped for the construction crew, who maintained a positive, can-do attitude throughout the project.

After completing the first phase of the project, TMG was contracted to install additional cabinets and a new storage area made from custom millwork panels. A key challenge of this project has been fixing mistakes made by the millwork fabricator contracted by the owner. TMG carpenters Taylor Vogel and Matt Adams have spent untold hours developing solutions and correcting errors in the millwork panels.

The most rewarding aspect of this work has been completing the project in a timely fashion and maintaining a positive relationship with Dencorp (the CM) despite the many hurdles and unpleasant circumstances TMG has faced. Tyson Floors performed well for us on this project as did Merical Electrical Contractors, Inc., which pitched in with "as builts" after the original electrical contractor became unresponsive. Our friends at the airport also have been extremely accommodating in helping us find temporary storage spaces.

You just never know how much work goes into a simple donut and cup of Joe.