Authors: Anja Filipec & Tana Gerenčer, TRIKA

When we at TRIKA took on the task of contributing to the FF&E scope for The Bristol Hotel in Belgrade, we knew we were facing a challenging project. The investor had high expectations, as the building carries a rich history and requires a special approach to every detail. Although creating a materials book is standard practice for us on larger projects, this task was anything but routine.

Why a materials book?

For such complex projects, the materials book is not just a list of used materials. It is a living document that connects all participants: designers and contractors, but also the hotel staff who will later maintain the space. The client requested exceptionally detailed, clear, and long-term usable documentation, organized by all zones and positions within the hotel.

Our process – digital and physical

Searching for the right tool for this project was no easy task. We needed a tool that would allow us to precisely and transparently define all materials and their positions. Luckily, we came across VOLUM3. What immediately caught our eye was exactly what we needed—the ability to structure the materials book by zones and positions, which was crucial for clear communication with the investors, designers, and hotel staff.

Therefore, we used VOLUM3 to specify every element within the interior: from fabrics and finishes to their exact position in the space. The materials book we created consisted of as many as four voluminous books. After exporting the specifications from VOLUM3, we physically supplemented them with real fabric samples, manually glueing them onto each page. In addition, at the end of each book, we included an additional section with maintenance instructions, which is now also used within the hotel's housekeeping department. The platform was intuitive, even for first-time users, so the entire process of data entry and organization went smoothly.

The outcome

During the work, we encountered several specific requirements, both in content and in the presentation of the book. The VOLUM3 team was very open to our feedback and quickly helped us with technical challenges. This allowed us to maintain a high level of visual quality and include all of the necessary information.

The final result delighted the investor and his team, not only because of the level of detail, but also because of the clarity, transparency, and professional appearance. This book has also become a permanent tool within the hotel—not just documentation, but a practical guide for maintenance and interior upgrades.

From our perspective, VOLUM3 has proven to be a practical and reliable tool for projects of this level of complexity. It is not just software but a platform that facilitates collaboration and makes the process more transparent for all involved. We believe it can be useful to anyone who wants to professionally manage specifications, regardless of the size or type of project.