FLG FINE LINE GROUP

Company Information
We’re Building A Better Way

Our goal is to be at the forefront of the building industry by our

commitment to continually develop innovative and cost effective
approaches to construction.
FLG FINE LINE GROUP
About Us Information
Company

Index

SECTION 1 | About Us
History
Turn-Key Construction Management
Contacts & Locations

SECTION 2 | Project Portfolio

SECTION 3 | Press & Testimonials

FLG FINE LINE GROUP
About Us

Overview

History

Founded in 1979, FLG began as a General Building Contractor specializing

in museum interiors for such notable clients as the San Francisco Legion
of Honor and the California Academy of Sciences.

Today, our Client portfolio includes some of the nation’s finest restaurant,
hospitality and retail establishments throughout the continental West and
Northeast.

Experience

With nearly thirty years of construction experience, FLG understands the

critical balance of meeting both budget and schedule imperatives. We
have evolved creative building methodologies and project delivery
strategies that successfully manage both and enhance our Client’s design
goals.

Efficiency

FLG has a proven track record as a value added construction firm that can
meet serious cost and time constraints. We have a reputation for meeting
very ambitious schedules and bring with us a time-tested “fast-track”
approach.

Teamwork

FLG combines traditional contractor services with construction

management and design-build capabilities. We are committed to a
philosophy of organized teamwork between Client, Design Team and
Construction Team. We believe that a project’s success is based upon
excellent and timely communications, the anticipation of potential
problems, and a commitment to focus on solutions.

Mission Statement

Fine Line Group’s goal is to be at the forefront of the building industry by

our commitment to continually developing innovative approaches to
construction. We provide a unique work environment that promotes
learning, creativity and above all, a passion to excel.
FLG FINE LINE GROUP
About Us

Turn-Key Construction Management

FLG has developed a unique, Turn-Key project delivery method aimed at

reducing our client’s financial risk by controlling budget and schedule from
the earliest stages of design.

Unlike most Construction Managers, FLG offers an integrated design and

construction approach. We not only assemble and manage the architectural
and engineering team but incorporate them into our prime contract as
sub-consultants. This approach enables us to assume full responsibility for
meeting our client’s schedule and cost targets by providing single-source
accountability, realistic schedules with fixed construction pricing very early in
the design process.

FInally, our streamlined, open-book approach enables us to bid your project

at the end of the Design Development Phase. This approach allows us to
reduce your overall project schedule by up to 40 percent, bring your
business to market faster, while saving you time and money in the process.

The FLG Turn-Key CM Process Provides:

Early Discovery
• Pre-Lease Discovery

• Lease Negotiation Support

• Maximize TI Allowance

Cost Control
• Early Discovery Influences Design

• “Real” Costing Throughout Design

• Open Book Sub-Contractor Bidding

• Architecturally Driven Value Engineering

Speed to Market
• Reduced Project Schedule

• Minimized Documentation

• Overlapping Phases

• Early Procurement

Efficiency & Quality

• Team Approach

• Reduced Administrative Costs

• Improved Communication

• Seamless Project Management

FLG FINE LINE GROUP
About Us

Approach Comparison | 2,000 - 4,000 Sf Retail Store

Retail Design & Construction | Turn-key Approach

2 SITE DISCOVERY

6 LEASE NEGOTIATION
WEEK
17
2 SCHEMATIC DESIGN FINALIZE COST

3 DEMOLITION

1 SCHEMATIC DESIGN PRICING

4 DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

3 BIDDING STORE OPENING

4 CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS 30 WEEKS

TOTAL

4 PERMIT REVIEW

3 ORDER LONG LEAD ITEMS

12 CONSTRUCTION

1 MERCHANDISING & MOVE-IN

Retail Design & Construction | Conventional Approach

6 LEASE NEGOTIATION

2 SCHEMATIC DESIGN

1 SCHEMATIC DESIGN PRICING

3 DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

2 DESIGN DEVELOPMENT PRICING

8 CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTATION

4 BIDDING & PERMITTING

2 VALUE ENGINEERING STORE OPENING

2 CONTRACT NEGOTIATION 46 WEEKS

TOTAL
[ FINAL COST ]

3 DEMOLITION

3 ORDER LONG LEAD ITEMS

12
CONSTRUCTION
MERCHANDISING & MOVE-IN 1
FLG FINE LINE GROUP
About Us

Approach Comparison | 8,000 Sf Restaurant

Restaurant Design & Construction | Turn-key Approach

2 SITE DISCOVERY
WEEK

6 LEASE NEGOTIATION 23
FINALIZE COST

3 SCHEMATIC DESIGN

3 KITCHEN DESIGN

3 DEMOLITION

3 SCHEMATIC DESIGN PRICING

9 DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
GRAND OPENING

3 BIDDING
48
3 ORDER LONG LEAD ITEMS WEEKS TOTAL

5 CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS

5 PERMIT REVIEW

20 CONSTRUCTION

2 BURN-IN & STOCKING

Restaurant Design & Construction | Conventional Approach

6 LEASE NEGOTIATION

3 SCHEMATIC DESIGN

2 SCHEMATIC DESIGN PRICING

6 DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

3 DESIGN DEVELOPMENT PRICING

14 CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTATION

3 BIDDING & PERMITTING

GRAND OPENING

3 VALUE ENGINEERING
66
3 CONTRACT NEGOTIATION WEEKS TOTAL
[FINAL COST]

3 DEMOLITION

3 ORDER LONG LEAD ITEMS

CONSTRUCTION 20
BURN-IN & STOCKING
2
FLG FINE LINE GROUP
About Us

Contacts & Locations

Office Locations

FLG's corporate office is located in San Francisco, California with a

regional office in New York City and Las Vegas. East coast, west or in
between, we understand local subcontractor and supplier markets, and
will assemble the best talent and resources for your project’s needs.

San Francisco
457 Minna Street
San Francisco, CA 94103
415.777.4070
Contact: John Santori

Las Vegas
7660 W Sahara Ave, Suite 110
Las Vegas, NV 89117
702.363.7145
Contact: Scott Hatcher

New York
36 West 25th Street, 16th Floor
New York, NY 10010
212.226.1646
Contact: Dale Salsman
2 Project Portfolio
FLG FINE LINE GROUP
Retail

Project
Information Gucci | San Francisco CA & Honolulu, HI

Architect: The Honolulu store was Gucci’s first design build project.
Gensler Architects
This renovation included imported Italian millwork in high lacquered Rose
Project Duration: wood. All fixtures were supplied and installed by Fine Line Group. The
6 Weeks project included a completely new two-story high ornamental storefront
finished with stainless steel panels.
Project Value:
3.7 Million Most important, the store was able to remain in business throughout the
entire construction period, and was completed 3 weeks ahead of schedule
Project Scope: with no change orders.
7,700 square ft.

Project
Photos

1. Storefront

2. Fixture & Lighting Detail

3. Main Floor
FLG FINE LINE GROUP
Retail

Project
Information Minamoto Kitchoan | San Francisco CA

Architect: Located in the historic 660 Market Building in San Francisco, Minamoto
Gensler Kitchaon was designed to house the “Wagashi” Japanese Sweets used in the
Japanese Tea Ceremony.
Project Duration:
16 Weeks This exquisite new retail space has granite stone tiles, wood, textured wall
finishes and specialty lighting imported from Japan. In addition, a large walk-in
Project Value: freezer with precision temperature control was installed to house the delicate
590 Thousand Japanese confections.

Project Scope: This project was an international collaboration between a Japanese Design
1,400 square ft. Firm, IRIE Design & Display and American Architect of Record, Gensler
Architects. This cross-cultural effort required metric and imperial dimensioning,
and Japanese|English translations for all construction documentation.

Project
Photos

1. Fixture Detail

2. Display Counter

3. Storefront
FLG FINE LINE GROUP
Retail

Project
Information Glory Chen | San Francisco CA

Architect: This project showcases the designer’s signature shoe collection with
Melander Architects custom super graphics on walls throughout, a creative curvilinear wall and
a modernist approach to the interior furnishings.
Project Duration:
12 Weeks FLG worked directly with the designer and store ownership as a
design-build team with the architect to build out this project in twelve
Project Value: weeks.
800 Thousand

Project Scope:
5,000 square ft.

Project
Photos

1. Stairway

2. Super Graphics

3. Main Floor
FLG FINE LINE GROUP
Retail

Project
Information Juicy Couture | Santa Barbara CA

Architect: Located on historic State Street in downtown Santa Barbara, this Juicy
Lalire March Architects, NY Couture features colored glass walls, perforated design panels on the
ceiling and custom interior finishes.
Project Duration:
54 Weeks The project scope also included new wood flooring, an elaborate lighting
package, and a beautiful exterior facade with signage.
Project Value:
2 Million FLG delivered the project on time and within budget.

Project Scope:
6,000 square ft.

Project
Photos

1. Storefront

2. SIgnage

3. Exterior Facade
FLG FINE LINE GROUP
Retail

Project
Information Longchamp | San Francisco CA

Architect: This project was a full Design Build - MEPS project.

Brand + Allen Architects
The flooring is beautiful Travertine marble tile with exquisite inlaid
Project Duration: sandstone strips. Wall finishes include hand painted faux stone. Because
9 Weeks the elegant maple millwork was specially fabricated in Canada, Fine Line
Group had to carefully construct the space to meet the exact dimensions.
Project Value:
575 Thousand One notable feature in the space is the floor to ceiling metal beaded
curtain that divides the main floor from a private display shelf, complete
Project Scope: with a library-style rolling ladder.
3,200 square ft.
Additional work included storage and break room facilities in the basement
complete with kitchenette, lockers, and shelving.

Project
Photos

1. Storefront

2. Main Floor

3. Fixture Detail
FLG FINE LINE GROUP
Retail

Project
Information H & M | San Francisco CA

Architect:
TEK Architects | MBH Architects
Project Duration:
14 Weeks
Project Value:
2.5 Million | Post St.
4.5 Million | Powell St.
Project Scope:
18,000 square ft. | Post St.
40,000 square ft. | Powell St.
H & M’s flagship store features new escalators, large video display
screens, all new stone flooring, 42 high end dressing rooms, new
restrooms, employee locker rooms and kitchen as well as a carefully
restored historical ceiling and entry.
The Post Street store features all new stone flooring, a new glass balcony
overlooking the entry, a grand staircase, new exterior sidewalks, new
restrooms and 20 high end dressing rooms.
Both stores completed within an a extreme fast track schedule.

Project
Photos

1. Powell Street

2. Powell Interior

3. Post Street
FLG FINE LINE GROUP
Retail

Project
Information Fornarina | Las Vegas NV

Architect: Designed by Giorgio Borruso Design Fornarina Las Vegas project is a

Giorgio Borruso Design surrealistic ambience of amoeboid shapes that required extensive and
complex custom fabrication.
Project Duration:
3 Months The central lighting fixture, a series of organic shapes encased in a special
nylon elastic fabric hangs from the ceiling from aluminum tubular frames.
Project Value: Mounted within the soffits are directional spots to provide illumination.
800 Thousand
Pearlescent fiberglass rings mounted on suspended 16 foot cast resin
Project Scope: panels serve as displays for small-scale items, such as shoes. While the
2,300 square ft. white custom fiberglass walls required hand-sculpting the pieces out of
foam prior to making molds for casting each peice.

Project
Photos

1. Ceiling Fixtures

2. Changing Rooms

3. Displays
FLG FINE LINE GROUP
Retail

Project
Information John Varvatos | San Francisco CA

Architect: The seventh store and the largest of the Varvatos stores, the San Francisco
DucDuc | New York flagship features two floors of sophisticated interiors, showcasing the
Pollack Associates | SF Varvatos casual to formal menswear attire.

Project Duration: FLG coordinated with both architects on the east and west coast as well
3 Months as meeting a demanding schedule of three months.

Project Value:
2 Million

Project Scope:
6,500 square ft.

Project
Photos

1. Stairway

2. Main Floor

3. Cashwrap
FLG FINE LINE GROUP
Restaurant

Project
Information McCormick & Kuleto’s | San Francisco CA

Architect: This spectacular bay view restaurant was built using a full compliment of
Kuleto Consulting & Design specialty finishes, including the use of natural dark wood, rich colors and
original glass work to create to embody a more traditional ambience.
Project Duration:
8 Months This extensive remodel also included a new public stairway to Ghirardelli
Square, lanscaping the adjacent park, and re-lighting the Municipal Pier.
Project Value:
3.5 Million

Project Scope:
18,000 square ft.

Project
Photos

1. Pizza Oven

2. Bar

3. Main Dining
FLG FINE LINE GROUP
Restaurant

Project
Information Cappelini | San Mateo CA

Architect: This restaurant construction involved not only a full seismic upgrade but
Kuleto Consulting & Design also included creating a mezzanine with a new elevator to service 3 levels.

Project Duration: The finishes were Honduras Mahogany for the bar and bar back, a three
6 Months marble weave pattern floor, and several hand-painted oil Frescoes.

Project Value:
1.5 Million

Project Scope:
7,500 square ft.

Project
Photos

1. Counter

2. Bar

3. Main Dining
FLG FINE LINE GROUP
Restaurant

Project
Information Kokkari Estiatorio | San Francisco CA

Architect: Designed by the award-winning architect Howard Backen of Backen &

Backen & Gillam Gillam Architects, the decor captures the feel of the European old-world.

Project Duration: The commitment to excellence embodied in this restaurant places it

7 Months instantly at the forefront of Hellenic Mediterranean venues nationally.

Project Value: Major features include specially distressed hardwood floors, exposed
3 Million ceiling beams, lintels, shutters, and operable windows, which provide the
feel of a Mediterranean open air café.
Project Scope:
8,000 square ft.

Project
Photos

1. Hania Room

2. Bar

3. Main Dining
FLG FINE LINE GROUP
Restaurant

Project
Information Brix | Yountville CA

Architect: This restaurant is set in the Napa Valley surrounded by an olive grove and
Huntsman | Carrell Design walking garden. The interior is reminiscent of and elegant country lodge.

Project Duration: The Cherry wood beams and ceilings are set against warm plaster walls,
6 Months slate floors and marble counters. A real stone fireplace in the lounge
makes this space very inviting.
Project Value:
1.8 Million

Project Scope:
5,000 square ft.

Project
Photos

1. Lounge

2. Bar

3. Main Dining
FLG FINE LINE GROUP
Restaurant

Project
Information Scotts’ South Coast Plaza | Costa Mesa CA

Architect: This restaurant is located at South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa, California
n|a and was one of several Scott’s remodels done by FLG including Scottsdale
Arizon.
Project Duration:
5 Months This project included a full kitchen remodel, dining room, and custom bar
on the interior. Exterior work included the dining patio, outdoor planters
Project Value: and building facade.
1.8 Million
FLG utilized a phased construction approach which allowed Scott’s South
Project Scope: Coast Plaza to remain open during the entire remodel.
10,000 square ft.

Project
Photos

1. Main Dining

2. Bar

3. Dining Patio
FLG FINE LINE GROUP
Restaurant

Project
Information One Market | San Francisco CA

Architect: This restaurant was constructed in the Historic Southern Pacific Building in
Architects II downtown San Francisco for Michael Dellar and Chef Bradley Ogden.

Project Duration: Details include custom sandcast glass panels at the pilasters, a terrazo bar
6 Months top with amarello marble, and multicolor slate floors. Row steel details
accent throughout while the lighting includes Italian custom hand-blown
Project Value: crystal lamps.
3 Million
The spectacular kitchen includes a popular “Chefs” table surrounded by
Project Scope: the bakery, ice cream room, butchery and assorted cook lines.
11,000 square ft.

Project
Photos

1. Storefront

2. Bar

3. Main Dining
FLG FINE LINE GROUP
Restaurant

Project
Information Postrio Restaurant | San Francisco CA

Architect: This elegant remodel included a bentwood curved ceiling, custom lighting,
Engstrom Design Group and bird's eye maple columns, and was accented with Gilhooly glass wall
sculptures.
Project Duration:
3 Months The bar and pizza oven were redone in classic style with exposed brick
and custom copper ribbons.
Project Value:
600 Thousand Postrio was able to remain fully operational during construction.

Project Scope:
2,500 square ft.

Project
Photos

1. Ceiling Detail

2. Bar

3. Dining Patio
FLG FINE LINE GROUP
Restaurant

Project
Information The Plant: Cafe Organic | San Francisco CA

Architect: Fine Line Group transformed this existing 3,000 square foot dilapidated
CCS Architects and vacated space into a vibrant, up to-date facility infused with the latest
kitchen appliances, cooking equipment and back-of-house devices
Project Duration: available.
20 Months
In addition to the large prep/clean/food storage area, there is a completely
Project Value: exposed cook line and food service kitchen. The in-house dining room
850 Thousand and front-of-house kitchen are designed with a mixture of ‘exposed to
structure’, partial new wood and painted ceilings are designed to create an
Project Scope: atmosphere of openness, and a nothing-to-hide attitude.
3,000 square ft.
This project included: New Toilet Rooms, Completely new BOH and FOH
Kitchens, and Dining Area.

Project
Photos

1. Exterior

2. Pizza Oven & Dining Counter

3. Main Dining
FLG FINE LINE GROUP
Restaurant

Project
Information Splendido | San Francisco CA

Architect: This restaurant is sure to be one of Pat Kuleto's most beautiful designs, as
Kuleto Consulting & Design it utilized an impressive range of fine artisans and unique materials in it’s
creation.
Project Duration:
8 Months These materials included a pewter top bar, Mexican wormwood walls,
French slate flooring, hand-hewn wood ceiling beams, limestone columns,
Project Value: hand-blown glass light fixtures and blacksmith wrought ironwork.
2 Million

Project Scope:
8,000 square ft.

Project
Photos

1. Light Sconce

2. Bar

3. Main Dining
FLG FINE LINE GROUP
Restaurant

Project
Information MC2 | San Francisco CA

Architect: Elegance and refined beauty are captured in this historical building
Mark Cavagnero Associates restoration. The raw brick and exposed steel beam construction of the
interior walls, remaining from our seismic retrofit, is softened by the airy
Project Duration: stretched fabric screen at the maple ventwood ceiling and light maple
18 Months millwork throughout.

Project Value: Selected walls were finished with integral colored Italian plaster then
3 Million polished to a high sheen. The flooring consists of beautifully finished
limestone slabs.
Project Scope:
14,000 square ft.

Project
Photos

1. Bar

2. Ceiling Detail

3. Main Dining
FLG FINE LINE GROUP
Restaurant

Project
Information Cellar 360 | San Francisco CA

Architect: Winner of Retail Environment’s 2008 Grand Prize for Best Specialty Food
Architectural Resources Group Retailer, Best Store Fixture, Visual Presentation, and Special Recognition
for Green Awareness, Cellar 360 at the historic Ghirardelli Square in San
Project Duration: Francisco introduces a new concept to retailing by combining a stylish
10 Weeks wine bar and retail experience.

Project Value: The hallmarks of this project’s success is its showcase of exquisite millwork,
1.7 Million finishes, distinctive lighting, dramatic bay views, and the finest selection of
wines in the country.
Project Scope:
7,000 square ft.

Project
Photos

1. Retail

2. Counter and Lighting

3. Wine Bar

Awards:

Association for Retail Environment

Grand Prize 2008
 FLG FINE LINE GROUP
Restaurant

Project
Information Zero Degrees | San Francisco CA

Architect: The volumetric forms in this café employ a minimalist approach to

Mark Cavagnero Associates movement; in both plan and section they are fluid. The wood floor surface
with grid inlay furthers this sense of motion by continuing upward into
Project Duration: vertical planes along the rear walls.
2.5 Months
The undulating negative spaces created between the objects themselves
Project Value: and the existing elements hold each other in tension, embracing those
350 Thousand within the café.

Project Scope: Bold colors and lighting juxtapose, but enliven the raw materials of the
1,000 square ft. room’s shell. The strength of the new lends a clear response to the
authority of the old, culminating in a balanced and unified whole.

Project
Photos

1. Storefront

2. Counter

3. Cafe
3 Press & Testimonials
FLG FINE LINE GROUP
About&Us
Press Testimonials

News Articles

• Hospitality Design
On Time & On Budget

• Visual Merchandising + Store Design

Problem Solving – Fine Line Group’s Competitive Edge

• Pacific Business News

Givenchy Employs the Fast-Track Process

• San Francisco Chronicle

Upscale Contractor On The Fast Track

• San Francisco Business Times

Convincing Others to Try Something New

Client Testimonials

• Namrata Gupta | Director of Development & Design, BlissWorldÊLLC

• Michael Gatti | Principal, Barteluce Architects & Associate

• Charlie Kridler | Vice President of Retail, Gensler

• Akos Wright | Senior Director, Starwood Hotels & Resorts

• Bill Upson | Principal, Real Restaurants

• Pat Kuleto | Principal, Pat Kuleto Restaurants

• Louis Ligouri | GM, Ghirardelli Square

 FLG FINE LINE GROUP
Press

San Francisco Chronicle

Upscale Contractor On The Fast Track
By Lloyd Watson
What will Brad Ogden’s spectacular
new San Francisco restaurant, One
Market, and the new Coach leather
goods store at Post and Grant have in
common with 20 Talbot’s apparel stores
in three states, Brobeck’s
just-completed Palo Alto law office and
three Alders Duty Free shops in Las
Vegas?
They’re all projects of Fine Line Group,
a San Francisco general contracting
firm that’s not at all general.
“We’ve been increasing revenues 30
percent to 35 percent a year for the
past three years. This year we’ll double
to somewhere between $15 million and
$20 million in new business. We’ve got
12 projects under way and another 12
in negotiation.”
Santori, 46, has all the usual answers as
to why his company is “so hot” – quality
workmanship, fast-track performance,
good follow-up and maintenance.
“Ninety percent of our business is
repeat.”
But Fine Line also offers something that
is unique.
“Despite the computers in the office,
construction is one of the most
backward of businesses.” Santori said.
“There’s always been an adversarial
relationship between the contractor and
the architect/owner. We’ve tossed that
old negative way of doing business out
the window. We take the team
approach and share some of the risk
that normally falls entirely on the
owner.”
Fine Line works up its budget from the
architect’s schematic drawings rather
than the much more expensive working
drawings. “Only the subcontractors
know the real cost of building,” Santori
said. “So we bring all the potential
subcontractors to the job site and walk
them through the project. Then we can
commit to a price that the developer
can take to his investors as a firm
number.”
By so doing, Santori says he can save
an owner 10 percent or more of a
project’s overall cost. That can be
especially significant when
construction runs from $250 to $300 a
square foot – as it did for the
Splendido’s and McCormick & Kuleto
restaurants, both recent Fine Line jobs.
A fourth-generation San Franciscan
who worked his way through Lowell,
USF and Cal as a carpenter, Santori
began by specializing in interiors for
major exhibits at the Legion and
DeYoung museums and the California
Academy of Sciences. When Prop 13
killed off much museum funding, he
switched to retail and restaurant
interiors.
His Fine Line partner is Bob Helmers,
46.
Their pet project of the moment is the
$2.5 million-plus One Market
restaurant being built for acclaimed
chef Ogden, 38 and his Lark Creek Inn
partner, Mike Deller, 46. It’s scheduled
to open by Thanksgiving in the old SP
Building at the corner of Market and
Steuart.
The restaurant will be one of the city’s
largest, with floor-to-ceiling windows
looking on to the Embarcadero and the
Ferry Building. It will employ 150
people and seat more than 300 – 10 of
them at a chef’s table in the kitchen,
which will take up more than 40
percent of the 10,300-square-foot
space.
Copyright © by the San Francisco Chronicle.
Reprinted by permission.
 FLG FINE LINE GROUP
Press

Hospitality Design

On time and on budget are words item-by-item budget review is

clients like to hear – but often don’t –
from their contractors. With the Fine
Line Group, a San Francisco-based
commercial interior construction firm
headed by CEO John S. Santori, clients
can anticipate a construction
experience that is designed to save
time, money, and energy often spent on
unforeseen problems.
According to Santori, Fine Line does
this by following a methodology of
On Time & On Budget teamwork based on Japanese
management principals.
By Suzanne Dorn
Specializing in high-end West Coast
restaurant projects, Santori’s 40-person
firm is responsible for building some of
San Francisco’s most successful
venues, such as the $2.5 – million One
Market restaurant and McCormick &
Kuleto’s, created by award-winning
restaurant designer Paul Kuleto.
What sets his firm apart from the
competition, Santori says, is the
amount of pre-construction planning
that goes into each of its projects.
“Pre-planning allows us to make
scheduling and budgetary
commitments that are invariably met,”
he adds.
performed that actual work begins –
with fewer hitches than might be the
case without such meticulous
pre-planning.
Though he earned a biochemistry
degree from the University of
California, Berkeley in 1970, Santori
has always had a taste for the
construction business. He worked for
an uncle framing house during his
college days, “and it progressed from
there,” he says. In 1974, he started his
own construction firm, which worked
mainly on museum projects. That firm,
eventually renamed the Fine Line
Group, expanded its market to include
retail and restaurant projects, as well
as some hotel projects for Hyatt.
With annual billings of $20 million,
Santori and his Fine Line Group are at
work currently on the California
Culinary Academy, Chalkers Billiard
Club, and Silks restaurant, all located
in San Francisco.

On all Fine Line projects, a team

composed of the client, architect,
contractor, and subcontractors is
organized at the outset of a project. In
the earliest stages of planning, each
team member participates in several
inspections to become totally familiar
with the project so that there are no
surprises down the road. “Each team
member will be expected to perform as
specified and for the price agreed to,”
Santori explains.

Team members each have an equal

voice in the numerous plan reviews and
revisions that take place during the
planning period. It is only after final
revised schematics are approved by Reprinted with the permission of HOSPITALITY
everyone on the team and an DESIGN Magazine.
 FLG FINE LINE GROUP
Givenchy Employs the Fast-Track Process
By Chuck Davis
Time is money, especially in Waikiki,
where rents often soar into the double
digits per square foot per month, and
downtime can destroy the bottom line.
On the ground floor of the Royal
Hawaiian Shopping Center, workers are
putting in double shifts to build out a
posh Givenchy store slated to open by
Memorial Day weekend. The catch is
they didn’t start until May 6. In just four
weeks, more than a dozen
subcontractors will have gutted and
re-built a 2,000-square-foot space to
specifications in half the time it normally
takes.
San Francisco-based general contractor
Fine Line Group Inc. uses what
company President John Santori calls
“Japanese fast-track construction.”
The Japanese method is budget-driven,
and there is no such thing as a change
order or cost overrun, he said.
Subcontractors participate in the
planning process, along with the
architect and owner. All components –
such as cabinetry and storefront – are
manufactured off-site, and on-site
assembly is carefully choreographed for
maximum efficiency. Santori said all
on-site construction and installation is
Press
Pacific Business News
being done by local union workers, and those which have followed that
comes in at about $180 - $200 per pattern. And the Givenchy operation,
square foot, often cheaper than he said, “is keeping with our marketing
traditional American techniques. plan of offering designer products, and
fits right in with our tenant mix, which
Santori said the Givenchy store is Fine attracts Japanese visitors.”
Line’s first job in Hawaii, but the firm
has been building custom interiors Marketing consultant Taka Kono,
since 1979. He said most of the work publisher of the Japan report, said
involves high-end retail stores, including specialty stores are much more
build-outs on cruise ships. Fine Line is powerful than boutiques within
targeting the Hawaii market with department stores. “For Japanese
fast-track construction, he said, tourists, who are increasingly
because high rents mean time is crucial, time-conscious, and are unfamiliar
especially in the context of the visitor with Hawaii’s geography, it is much
industry. easier to shop at specialty stores
But Santori said he is looking to the dedicated to their favorite brands than
entire Pacific Rim, starting with Guam to hunt down the products at several
and Saipan, and is considering opening locations.”
an office in Honolulu. “I’d like to put a
team together in Hawaii,” he said, to
serve those other markets. He said Fine
Line employs about 50, and has gross
sales of $15 million to $20 million per
year.
The Givenchy store is being developed
by Waikiki Trader Corp., which operates
29 theme stores in Hawaii and on the
Mainland, including Endangered
Species Stores, LeSportsac and Prima
Classe.
Cleigh Pang, Waikiki Trader vice
president of operations, said he has
used fast-track construction in two
Endangered Species locations on the
Mainland, and is sold on the concept.
Paris-based Givenchy sells men’s and
women’s apparel and accessories,
which have traditionally been carried by
Island department stores. The move to
open a store, analysts say, is part of a
trend among upscale lines to address
consumer preferences for
branded-store shopping, which is
perceived as more entertaining than
department stores.
Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center
Property Manager Jonathan Kim listed
the Polo Store, Louis Vuitton, Burberry’s Copyright ©1996 by Pacific BusinessNews.
Ltd. And Chanel Boutiques among Reprinted by permission.
 FLG FINE LINE GROUP
Convincing Others to Try Something New
By Susan Smith Hendrickson
Press
San Francisco Business Times
In the last 20 years, contractor John
Santori has rebuilt himself, his company
and the construction industry at least a
half a dozen times.
Changing the course of his own life
wasn't difficult. If Santori had followed
his original career path to attend
Columbia University Medical School, he
would still be his same innovative self,
and no doubt gone on to become
something like a reconstructive
surgeon. Instead, Santori has
reinvented the way seismic work and
high-end retail and restaurants projects
are done.
Changing the ways of the construction
industry proved more difficult. Said
Santori, "The construction business
isn't very innovative."
Santori chose a career in construction,
in 1974, after spending his summers
framing houses for his uncle. Building
seemed like it would be a lot more fun
than the years of studying that medical
school required. Soon he learned that it
would also be more challenging.
Santori's first company, Santori
Construction, started out with small
projects and was soon called on to
renovate San Francisco's California
Academy of Sciences and the Legion of
Honor.
"We were cheap," said Santori, who
loved the opening parties that went with
doing museum work.
In 1979, Proposition 13 wiped out all
the funding for library and museum
construction and almost demolished
Santori's company.
To stay alive, Santori turned to high-end
retail construction, signing on four
partners who each put in $500 for a
total of $2,000 in startup funds. They
spent the money on stationery for their
new company, the Fine Line Group,
photocopied the American Institute of
Architect's San Francisco directory
and went door-to-door looking for
projects. Lacking retail experience,
work was difficult to get, so Fine Line
took what other construction firms
wouldn't. In 1980, their largest job was
for the department store Liberty
House. Their fee: $5,000.
At a Christmas party, Santori
announced that Fine Line was going
out of business in March.
After that announcement, they
received $4 million in letters of intent
from Liberty House and Bullock's. Fine
Line decided to give the construction
industry another try.
Wanting to be like the big players in
the industry, it moved from its original
home in Marin to San Francisco.
Soon, Liberty House pulled out of
California, and so did Bullock's. "We
learned a new word -- diversification,"
Santori said.
IBM was Fine Line's next big client,
but the 1980s were also a time of
downsizing for the technology giant.
During this series of disasters, Santori
picked up on a way of doing
construction that would save his
business -- and the budgets of others.
While working with a Los Angeles
architecture firm, Santori was
introduced to the Japanese fast-track
method of building.
Santori was astounded by the
method's short construction period.
He studied it for 10 years before
finding a client that would allow him to
test his new-found approach to
building.
Rizzoli's bookstore decided to give the
method a try. Santori had already
>>
Continued San Francisco Business Times

remodeled two of the chain's stores, and

the owner was anxious to try anything
that would prevent him from closing a
third store and losing business during the
long remodeling process.

"With Japanese fast track, you can

advertise that you are closing on a Friday,
`come see our new store on Monday,' "
said Santori.

Because of the months spent planning,

measuring and doing most of the
building off-site (which is cheaper),
construction of a store happens almost
overnight.

Fine Line's first Japanese fast track

project was a success and the company
realized it had found a niche: meeting
next to impossible deadlines.

The company reinforced its theory by

completing the renovation of the French
Lycee School in San Francisco in
five-and-a-half months, four months
ahead of its set schedule.

Santori next applied Japanese fast-track

construction to the seismic renovation of
Rizzoli's San Francisco store. The project
had a 14- month deadline. Fine Line
completed it in five-and-a-half months.

Now Santori wants to completely change

the way seismic work is done in the Bay
Area. After all, a lot of buildings still have
to get up to code before the 2002
deadline. To help them, Fine Line has
joined with two universities and started a
new division, Composite Structures, to
test a new building material made out of
carbon fiber, which is 10 times stronger
than steel.

"In every other industry, you have to deal

with the Steve Jobs-types, working away
in their garages, trying to innovate," said
Santori, a biochemist by degree. "I
named my company the Fine Line Group,
not Fine Line Construction, because I
don't know where we will be in 10 years."
Copyright 1999 American City Business Journals Inc.

Problem Solving –
Fine Line Group’s Competitive Edge
By Bob Jordan
How does a construction company
enjoy 20- to 30-percent growth in the
depths of a recession when its principal
clients are retailers going through the
worst down market in a decade? By
accepting smaller profit margins, by
being more versatile and budget-
conscious than competitors and by
helping clients solve time constraint and
design problems.
At least that’s the formula used by San
Francisco-based contractor Fine Line
Group. Fine Line’s President and COO,
Bruce Clymer, says it’s worked so well
that the company expects 30- to
40-percent growth throughout the rest
of the year.
Since its inception in 1979, Fine Line’s
40 employees, under the direction of
CEO John Santori, have gathered
clients such as Coach, Talbots, Liberty
House, Confetti candy stores, Duty Free
Shops, Sharper Image and Hyatt
Regency Hotels. While the group’s work
is primarily confined to the Southwest –
California, New Mexico, Nevada and
Arizona – future plans include venturing
to the Northwest and Hawaii.
“The recession has given us a lot of
good customer,” Clymer says. “Our
Visual Merchandising + Store Design
versatility has insulated us to some
degree … and our willingness to offer
additional services that other builders
don’t offer has worked in our favor.”
One of those services includes site
surveys. For example, the firm reviewed
four possible locations for Talbot’s
flagship store in San Francisco’s Union
Square. Before leases closed, Fine Line
found asbestos problems in one and
structural problems in another. They
also advised Talbots of city building
codes and restrictions that might
adversely affect their project.
“After site selection, we quickly got
involved with the construction teams,
helping to develop cost estimates,”
Clymer explains. “There were some
plaster ceilings in the existing space.
The architects contacted us to see what
we could do to salvage and determine
whether we could repeat those original
details throughout the space. That’s the
kind of challenge we love to rise to.”
Say you’re a store designer who has
just been given a rehab assignment with
a limited budget, a ridiculously short
completion date of eight weeks and
very upscale expectations for the result.
Is this mission impossible?
Maybe not. You fall into the classic
profile of clients that sought the
services of Fine Line Group this past
year. Satisfied clients include such retail
icons as I. Magnin, Bullock’s, Gumps
and Coach.
“We were able to do a renovation for
Coach in eight weeks, Talbots took
about ten weeks… and that was in the
middle of the earthquake.” Clymer says.
The Coach renovation, at Post and
Grand Streets in San Francisco,
involved a new façade, plus internal
remodeling. “We knew an eight-week
schedule was very ambitious,” admits
Michael Fernbacher, Coach’s project
manager. The renovation budget was
incomplete and some of the finishing
detail had yet to be determined. These
challenges left Fine Line undaunted –
they assigned Steve Fairclough to the
project as field superintendent.
“Steve has a millwork background,”
Fernbacher explains. “This makes him
sensitive to the larger architectural
issues – and ability to see further
ahead. Also, we are very much
problem-solvers. Where many builders
are always complaining about design
problems, Fine Line becomes part of
the design team – they think like
designers.”
Fairclough sweated out every detail,
according to Fernbacher. Fine Line
located subcontractors to accommo-
date special metalworking require-
ments. Innovative construction
methods, that involved removing,
restructuring and reusing existing
metal design elements, economically
solved design problems on the façade.
Unique scaffolding allowed ceiling and
floor work to progress simultaneously.
Tasmanian oak cabinetry and trim
gave the Coach store the look of rich
mahogany at a fraction of the price.
“They kept moving, taking it all in as
we went,” says Fernbacher. “We had
considerable changes – both in design
and price – and they were able to
accommodate it all.” Gene Messina,
Coach’s manager of store construc-
tion, was so pleased with the final
result that he’s decided to replicate
many of the Fine Line’s ideas in the
firm’s other stores.
The secret of Fine Line’s success lies
in the company’s philosophy of
selecting clients with whom they hope
to build long-term relationships.
Clymer says Fine Line works to
develop a team concept between
client, architects and other contrac-
tors.
>>
Continued Visual Merchandising + Store Design

“Another of our services is our ability to
provide subcontractors who provide
quality work at competitive prices,” says
Clymer. “We try to target clients who are
growing. We repeat a lot of work with
different architects. This enables us to
negotiate attractive prices. It also makes
it easier to devise alternative ways of
constructing thing within structural
limitations.
“Systemization is the key,” insists
Clymer. “We are highly organized, with
highly developed computer systems.
This permits us to organize our subcon-
tractors more efficiently. We’re able to be
more creative on the financial end,
allowing projects to move forward before
the design is complete.”
As an example, in the Coach project Fine
Line separated the façade from the
prime contract. This permitted the firm to
set a ballpark figure and begin construc-
tion while the final design problems and
costs were worked out for the rest of the
project.
Leadership is another key. “We often
teach our subcontractors how to bid,”
Clymer says. “We teach them to develop
detailed proposals. We keep them trim.
We’re really strong on realistic bids. Then
we protect our subs – we make sure we
keep our promises.”
Trust is extended through the client-
architect-builder team. It makes for
long-term, stable relationships where
work can be done on a handshake if
need be.
designed, budgeted and built as we
went. “The result is a level of trust and
credibility that’s earned Fine Line repeat
business with 80 percent of its clients.
Clymer’s background suits him well in
heading up such an innovative construc-
tion firm. The grandson of a builder and
son of an engineer, he worked as a boat
builder, earning degrees in both anthro-
pology and psychology. Early travels
took him to Brazil and other foreign
countries, where he was introduced to
new and exotic building styles,
techniques and materials. He built store
for Joseph Magnin and then, as an
independent consultant, built Gump’s
stores in Dallas and Beverly Hills before
joining Fine Line in 1988.
Admitting that the “Wal-Mart price point
element” has introduced a new dynamic
to retailing, Clymer still insists that image
and quality design are here to stay.
Great design of the future, he says, will
involve creating a strong image that
enhances what a retailer’s client is
seeking. An image of not only what the
store sells, but of how the store wants its
customers feel about what it sells.
According to Clymer, the stores that do
well in the future will be those that stay
focused on what they sell – stores that
are well planned and customer friendly.
There will be less fear of signage. Pillars
and columns will be mixed with new
materials. “We now have stones and
slates available in California that until
recently we didn’t even know existed,”
he says.
Clymer says we’ll see more stores-
within-stores using different materials
while still maintaining architectural
balance. “Building in flexibility has
become very important,” he stresses.
“We’re building more modular
showcases – cases lit from above
rather than from within.”
Entertainment and convenience will be
increasingly important to store design.
“Look what Disney is doing.” Clymer
says. “They’re creating entertainment
and excitement.” Some recent jewelry
stores Fine Line has worked on have
video centers, toy centers, and
couches where children can be
entertained while their parents are
looking at fine jewelry. “The trick,” says
Clymer. “Is to balance entertainment
with good merchandising concepts.”
Despite new advances, Clymer
believes classics are here to stay.
“Store designers have to be more
sensitive to both interior and exterior
store imaging. They must combine
good graphics with great lighting to
create efficient stores that focus on the
customer’s needs.”

This worked to everyone’s advantage in Lighting is gaining in importance as

a multi-store project at San Francisco’s
Embarcadero Center. Fine Line
contracted to construct some 20
separate projects. In some instances
clients were moving into space currently
occupied by other clients.
“We were on an extremely tight sched-
ule,” Clymer explains. “We didn’t have
time to design everything first, so we
restrictive codes in some areas are
forcing more creative approaches. In
that regard, Clymer says that the United
States makes the best lighting in the
world, but the best design-oriented,
mass-produced lighting now comes
from Italy. Ergonomics, in terms of
putting focus points at level more
comfortable for customers, is taking on
greater importance.
From: Gupta, Namrata
Sent: Wednesday, July 15, 2009 2:09 PM
To: 'lpearce@christiandior.fr'
Subject: Bliss Fine Line Group recommendation

Dear Lee,

John Santori asked that I share with you my recent experience working with Fine Line Group. Specifically, John asked that
I comment on the support his construction management team, led by Eric Robinson, has offered my bliss spa project
during the pre-construction phase of our new 4000 sf spa in Hollywood, California.

While Fine Line Group has built successful spas for Bliss in the past, the Hollywood project is the first in which they have
provided us with pre-construction/construction management services. These services fell into three main categories:
design team management, coordination/technical review, and pricing/cost control. In all categories, Fine Line has added
incredible value to my team. Specifically: they supported Bliss and the design team in scheduling and communication;
they coordinated technical conflicts during design to avoid costly changes during construction; and finally, they led “value
engineering” exercises that have brought down project costs substantially without sacrificing design quality. In each case,
we have benefited greatly by including Fine Line Group in an “integrated” delivery process and not waiting until the start of
construction to do so.

For all of these reasons and more, I can offer you my strongest endorsement of John’s team at Fine Line Group.

And should you need to, you may call me at the mobile number below for any additional details or questions you may
have.

Respectfully,

Namrata

namrata gupta
director development + design | bliss |
75 varick street, 10th floor, new york, ny 10013
t 212 380 4612 | f 212 380 4642 | m 781 363 1469
www.blissworld.com
 Barteluce Architects & Associates

Daniel J. Barteluce
Principal, CEO

Michael M. Gatti
Sr. VP, Principal

Vice Presidents
Laurent Charlet July 16, 2009
Charles J. Petretti
Michael J. Rostkowski
Brian Swanson
Re: Fine Line Group
Associates 457 Minna Street
Atilio Leveratto
Christopher Nubla
San Francisco, CA 94103
Alice Perera
To whom it may concern:

I understand that you are considering retaining the General Contractor or Construction
Management services of Mr. John Santori and Fine Line Group.

I have had the recent pleasure of working with John and his team on a number of projects
including the flagship boutique for Diesel in San Francisco and the renovation of a 5 story
townhouse here in New York City.

Our firm specializes in luxury retail environments but has completed many projects of all
different types and sizes. A brief look at our website www.bapc.net will give you a sense of
the level of detail we require when we hire a general contractor. In my 20 year career I can
honestly say that Fine Line Group is one of the best I have worked with. Their management
team is proactive and smart, providing viable solutions to field issues instead of simply stating
the problem. Their field superintendents consolidate their questions and clearly present the
issues making our job easier benefitting the overall project. Most importantly, they take
tremendous pride in the quality of their work; they are committed to building relationships, not
simply making as much money as possible and moving on to the next.

I would highly recommend Fine Line Group for any project you are considering and am
available to talk to you and your team anytime. Don’t hesitate to call with any questions or
comments.

Sincerely,

Michael M. Gatti, AIA

Principal

Daniel J. Barteluce P.C. Architects & Associates 36 West 25th Street New York, NY 10010

Phone (212) 691-7200

Fax (212) 691-7260
www.bapc.net
 Architecture, Design & Planning Worldwide

June 10, 2003

To Whom It May Concern:

Gensler has worked with Fine Line Group for the past ten years on several projects including
the Gucci stores in Ala Moana Center in Hawaii and Union Square in San Francisco.

We have found John Santori and his company to be conscientious in meeting project budgets
and committed to maintaining project schedules. They have proven to be innovative problem
solvers and are able to rise to the challenge of fast track deadlines while maintaining a quality
product. They are easy to work with and are highly regarded by their clients and project
consultant teams.

I would recommend John Santori and his company, the Fine Line Group Inc. as an
exceptionally capable contractor for your project.

Sincerely,

Charlie Kridler
Vice President, Retail
CK/LN

Two Harrison Street

Suite 400
San Francisco California 94105
Tel: 415.433.3700
Fax: 415.836.4599
February 19, 2008

To Whom It May Concern,

On behalf of Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide, Inc., I am pleased to write this letter of
recommendation with regard to the excellent service and caliber of work that our company has
experienced with Fine Line Group (FLG).

The W Hotel, one of our premier properties in San Francisco, benefited from the FLG’s pre-
construction and construction services. FLG was involved with early programmatic services for the
hotel’s lobby and public areas, and provided construction services for the hotel as well as completed
construction for the renowned Bliss Spa. We were impressed by FLG’s highly responsive service
and proactive attitude. Our projects were completed in a timely and professional manner.

We highly recommend Fine Line Group without hesitation, and look forward to working with them
on future projects.

Sincerely,

Akos Wright
Senior Director of Starwood Hotels
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide

1111 Westchester Ave, White Plains, New York 10604-3500 Tel:914-64-5222 Fax:914-640-1858
 180 Harbor drive.
suite 100 May 18, 2005
sausalito, ca 94965
tel: 415/331-9101
Fax: 415/331-9022

real restaurants Douglas Wong

mustards grill
napa valley
Executive Director
fog city diner Port of San Francisco
san francisco
osaka Ferry Building #3108
tra vigne San Francisco, CA 94111-4263
& cantinetta
napa valley
bix RE: Fine Line Group
san francisco
roti
san francisco Dear Doug,
buckeye roadhouse
marin county
pan-o-rama baking co. I am writing on behalf of John Santori, principal of Fine Line Group, Inc. Over the
san francisco
cafe museo
last three years I have worked with Mr. Santori on numerous projects including
in sf moma Loongbar and Bistecca in San Francisco. This experience has proven the Fine Line
modern catering
san francisco Group to be professional, thorough and honest in every regard. The company
,
bump s
aspen
honored every agreement and promise from the preconstruction to final punch list
ajax tavern completion. John personally insured a quality product was delivered in a timely
aspen
manner. In short, the integrity of John Santori and his company is superior.
beetlenut
san francisco

real american If I can be of any assistance in the future concerning the Fine Line Group, please let
restaurants me know.
fog city diner
chicago
tomatina Sincerely,
napa valley
walnUt creek
santa clara
loongbar
san francisco
postino
lafayette

Bill Upson
Wolfgang Puck
1114 Horn Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 940069

Dear Wolf:

Long time no talk to. I understand things are going great for you. Thought I'd let
you know about Fine Line Group, who I've enjoyed working with.

I've had the pleasure of designing and constructing several restaurants including
McKormick & Kuleto's, Splendido's and Ristorante Capellini in collaboration
with Fine Line Group. Their attention to detail, their overall workmanship,
professionalism and team spirit contributed greatly to the success of these
projects.

Despite many design changes during the construction of these projects, Fine Line
Group was able to react quickly to implement these changes and still complete the
projects either on time or ahead of schedule. Their skill in the field and ability to
respond quickly, to anticipate problems, develop value engineering, suggest
creative alternatives, coordinate, manage and ultimately complete a project in a
professional manner is a rarity in today's marketplace.

I highly recommend Fine Line Group as a Contractor in the construction of any

restaurant facility.

Give me a call next time you're in town -- I'd love to say hello.

Sincerely,

Pat

30 LIBERTYSHIP WAY #207 SAUSALITO, CALIFORNIA 94965 415.331.0880 FAX 415.331.2954

 Ghirardell Square
w o rd l y f l a v o r. l o c a l f l a i r. 900 NORTH POINT STREET SAN FRANCISCO CA 94104

TELEPHONE 415.775.5500 . FAX.415.775.0912 http://www.GhirardelliSq.com

Mr. Yuji Tsunoda

Eugene & Associates, Inc.
Chaya Brasserie
8741 Alden Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90048

Dear Mr. Tsunoda,

I am writing this as a testament to the workmanship and quality of service of the Fine Line Group Inc.
as a general contractor.

As the General Manager of Ghirardelli Square in San Francisco, I have had the opportunity to work
with Mr. Santori and the Fine Line Group Inc. as the principal contractor during the construction of
two major restaurants that are currently part of the Ghirardelli Square scene. The restaurants include
McCormick & Kuleto’s 18,334 square feet and Oritalia (now La Pasta) 2,103 square feet.

The Fine Line Group was recently contracted and is currently involved in the construction of a third
major restaurant for Ghirardelli Square. Fine Line is currently building a restaurant for Mark Miller
and work includes the seismic up-grading of the Power House Building, the location for this new
restaurant.

Our experience with the Fine Line Group has been nothing short of outstanding. They continually
meet their deadlines and have been consistently productive in determining solutions for the many
problems that develop in projects of the magnitude of the above restaurants.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the services of the Fine Line Group Inc. to any entity seeking a
dependable construction company for projects of any size.

I am available to discuss the merits of the Fine Line Group Inc. at any time. Please feel free to call me
if you have any questions.

Sincerely

Louis Ligouri
General Manager
FLG FINE LINE GROUP

San Francisco
457 Minna Street | San Francisco, CA 94103
415.777.4070

New York
36 West 25th Street, 16th Floor | New York, NY 10010
212.226.1646

Las Vegas
7660 W Sahara Ave, Suite 110 | Las Vegas, NV 89117
702.363.7145