HBG Design’s Interiors Team Recognized as a 2024 NEWH Top ID
We are excited to announce that HBG Design’s Interior Design Team has been recognized as a 2024 Top ID by the NEWH Midsouth Chapter! This prestigious honor celebrates firms that showcase design excellence in the hospitality industry while supporting NEWH’s mission of scholarship, education, and the advancement of the hospitality design community.
About the NEWH TopID Award
The TopID Award is an exclusive recognition given by NEWH chapters and regional boards to firms that demonstrate innovative design, leadership, and meaningful contributions to the hospitality industry. This honor reflects not only our team’s creative design achievements but also our continued involvement and commitment to the NEWH mission.
“HBG Design is honored to be recognized again as a Top ID by the NEWH Mid-South Chapter. The HBG interior design team is passionate about creating transformative hospitality design experiences. We greatly appreciate this acknowledgement of our achievements by the NEWH organization.” Emily Marshall, Interior Design Director, HBG Design
A Four-Time Honoree
This year marks the fourth consecutive year that HBG Design has been recognized as a Top ID by NEWH Midsouth—an achievement that underscores the dedication, talent, and expertise of our incredible Interior Design Team. Through award-winning projects across the hospitality sector, our designers continue to deliver distinctive and engaging guest experiences that set new standards in the industry.
Supporting the Future of Hospitality Design
At HBG Design, we are proud to align with NEWH’s mission to support the next generation of hospitality design professionals. Through active engagement, mentorship, and sponsorship, our team remains dedicated to fostering education and opportunities for emerging talent in the field.
Honoring Our Interior Design Team
This recognition is a testament to the passion, creativity, and hard work of our Interior Design Team. Their innovative approach to hospitality spaces—from luxury hotels to immersive resort experiences—reflects HBG Design’s commitment to delivering transformative environments that elevate the guest experience.
Thank you to NEWH Midsouth for this incredible honor, and congratulations to our talented Interior Design Team for this well-deserved recognition!
Caption by Hyatt Wins AIA Memphis Merit Award
Caption by Hyatt Wins AIA Memphis Merit Award for Excellence in Design
HBG Design is proud to announce that Caption by Hyatt has received a 2024 Merit Award for New Construction from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Memphis Chapter. The award was presented on November 16, 2024, at the AIA Memphis Annual Awards Gala, held at Collage Dance in Memphis.
The project, located in the heart of Memphis, was recognized for its innovative design approach, successfully merging contemporary architecture with the neighborhood’s historic fabric. The jury, comprised of distinguished design professionals from AIA Arizona, praised the project for its thoughtful revitalization of the existing streetscape, balancing modern construction with historic preservation.
Jury Comments:
"This project successfully revitalizes a historic facade by thoughtfully layering new construction with the existing structure. The reuse of the original mechanics shop, combined with a setback modern addition, preserves the street's human scale and creates unique urban spaces, including a charming semi-outdoor courtyard. The well-scaled brickwork provides a welcome departure from typical contemporary hotel aesthetics, resulting in a balanced and authentic character."
Designing an Authentic Urban Experience
Caption by Hyatt
is a one-of-a-kind hospitality experience that prioritizes connection—both to the surrounding community and to its guests. The design integrates the adaptive reuse of an early 20th-century mechanics shop with a sleek, modern addition, creating a dynamic blend of old and new. By preserving the original building’s scale and materiality, the design pays homage to Memphis’ industrial heritage while introducing a contemporary, vibrant hotel concept.
Central to the project is the thoughtfully designed courtyard, a semi-outdoor space that fosters interaction and serves as a gathering hub. The brickwork, carefully detailed to reflect the surrounding context, adds to the hotel’s approachable and timeless aesthetic.
A Testament to Excellence
The AIA Memphis Merit Award celebrates projects that demonstrate design excellence, innovation, and a meaningful contribution to the built environment. HBG Design is honored to have been recognized for Caption by Hyatt and is proud of
the impact this project has made in the Memphis community.
We extend our gratitude to AIA Memphis and the jury panel for this incredible recognition and to our clients and partners who helped bring this vision to life.
About HBG Design HBG Design is a nationally recognized architecture and interior design firm specializing in creating transformative hospitality, entertainment, and mixed-use spaces. With a focus on design excellence and innovation, we strive to bring meaningful connections to life through inspired architecture.
GOH Travel Scholarship 2025 Winner: Paul Patterson
HBG Design is proud to celebrate the presentation of our 9th GOH Travel Scholarship Award, honoring one of our founding partners, Greg Hnedak. This annual legacy award embodies Greg’s passion for immersive learning and transformative travel experiences, providing a unique opportunity for our staff to connect with new cultures, discover inspiring places, and explore the roots of design in meaningful ways.
This year, we are thrilled to announce Paul Patterson as the GOH Travel Scholarship 2025 winner. Paul’s concept for his journeys pushes the boundaries of the scholarship, presenting the idea of contrast in ways our jury had never seen before. His proposal exemplifies how design connects the familiar and the unfamiliar, inspiring creativity through juxtaposition.
Paul’s travels will take him on two transformative, week-long journeys to countries with similar cultures, design sensibilities, and awe-inspiring natural beauty – Iceland in the darkness of winter and Norway in the endless light of summer. This unique itinerary stretches the GOH Travel Scholarship’s purpose, exploring extreme contrasts in season, light, and environment to deepen our understanding of unity, adversity, and inspiration.
Experiencing Iceland in Winter’s Darkness
Paul’s first journey will lead him to Reykjavik, Iceland, a place where winter's darkness envelops urban life and natural wonders alike. His exploration will include:
- Visits to art and history museums showcasing Icelandic culture and traditions.
- Architectural studies of modern public and religious buildings.
- An immersive journey through the Golden Circle, a 190-mile route that highlights Iceland’s rugged landscapes, powerful waterfalls, geysers, and volcanic terrain.
- A hopeful glimpse of the Northern Lights, a natural spectacle that transforms the darkness into magic.
Paul’s focus on the stark beauty of Iceland’s harsh winter will uncover how design responds to extreme conditions, creating spaces of comfort amid adversity.
Experiencing Norway in the Light of Endless Summer
In stark contrast, Paul’s second journey will take him to Norway at the height of summer, where the midnight sun stretches the days into near-perpetual light. His itinerary includes:
- Visits to Oslo’s cultural hubs, exploring museums and contemporary Scandinavian architecture.
- Studie
Paul received his award at HBG's annual end of the year presentation. s of ancient stave churches, standing as historical counterpoints to modern design.
- Exploration of Norway’s breathtaking fjords, remote towns, and natural wonders through hiking and kayaking.
- Insights into how endless daylight influences urban living, culture, and the human experience.
Paul’s experience in Norway will showcase how light shapes life and design, revealing both similarities and profound contrasts to his time in Iceland.
Paul’s Vision for the GOH Travel Scholarship
In his own words, Paul expressed how this journey represents the ultimate contrast:
“The juxtaposition of seasons in these two places will beautifully represent the idea of comparison and extreme contrast; one in the depth of its harshness but also at the height of its ability to provide comfort along with some of the most amazing natural beauty a person can witness. The other, at the height of splendor that can only be attained with almost never-ending sunshine at the opposite of nearly endless darkness.” *
Honoring the Spirit of Exploration
Paul Patterson’s journey embodies the very essence of the GOH Travel Scholarship – exploration, learning, and inspiration through immersive experiences. We believe his travels will offer a compelling perspective on design, human connection, and the profound influence of environment and light.
Please join us in congratulating Paul Patterson, HBG Design’s GOH Travel Scholarship 2025 Winner! We look forward to sharing Paul’s insights and discoveries as he embarks on this extraordinary journey.
For more information on the GOH Travel Scholarship and to follow Paul’s journey, stay connected with HBG Design on our website and social media channels.
HBG Design voted a 2024 Top Workplace: Thank You, HBG Team!
We are incredibly proud to announce that HBG Design has been recognized as a 2024 Top Workplace by the Commercial Appeal for the 10th year in a row! This remarkable milestone reflects the dedication and enthusiasm of our team, and we couldn’t be more honored to receive this recognition.
In addition to this decade-long achievement, our San Diego office has been named a Best Place to Work for the second consecutive year. These awards are particularly meaningful because they are based entirely on employee feedback. The most significant aspect of these honors is not the awards themselves but what they represent: a shared commitment to fostering a thriving, inclusive, and inspiring workplace culture.
A Culture That Drives Us Forward
At HBG Design, we believe that people are at the heart of everything we do. This recognition speaks volumes about the strength of our culture, the dedication of our employees, and the visionary leadership that guides
us. It also highlights the bright future we are building together.
Here are some of the 2024 Top Workplace employee survey results that we are especially proud of this year:
- 97% of employees say their managers care about their concerns.
- Based on the Energage survey, HBG Design ranks in the top 20% of national design firms for caring and supportive managers.
- 92% of employees believe their managers and the firm support their professional growth and development. This also places HBG in the top 20% nationally for professional development opportunities within our industry.
- 94% of employees feel enabled to work at their full potential.
- 92% feel appreciated for their work.
These statistics underscore our commitment to empowering every team member to grow, thrive, and achieve their best.
Values That Define Us
This year, we were particularly thrilled to see these additional 2024 Top Workplace survey results:
- 92% of employees recognize HBG Design for its strong values.
- 91% of employees view HBG as an inclusive company.
These qualities are essential to our success and are at the core of how we operate every day. Fostering a Top Workplace environment of inclusion and upholding strong values isn’t just a goal—it’s how we achieve meaningful, impactful results as a firm.
Our Gratitude to the HBG Team
The Top Workplace recognition we’ve received over the years is a testament to YOU—our talented and passionate team. You are the heart of HBG Design, and your feedback drives us to keep improving, innovating, and delivering excellence.
Thank you for making HBG Design a truly exceptional place to work. Together, we will continue building on this legacy, shaping a workplace where everyone can thrive and making an impact across the industry for years to come.
Here’s to you, and here’s to the bright future ahead!
Celebrating HBG Design’s 2024 Promotions
At HBG Design, leadership is defined by actions that align teams toward a collective vision and inspire collaboration to achieve shared goals. This year, we’re proud to announce the promotion of five exceptional individuals whose dedication, innovation, and leadership exemplify these values. Congratulations to Alexandra Milkovich, Senior Associate, and Associates Kristen Dixon, Ryan Callahan, Kalyn Johnson, and Patty Sprecco Johnson. Read more about their incredible contributions below:
Alexandra Milkovich, Senior Associate
Alexandra Milkovich has been a trailblazer in HBG Design’s San Diego office, showcasing remarkable growth from her early days in documentation support to her current role as a Senior Interior Designer. Known for her empathetic leadership, Alexandra fosters collaboration and mentorship within her team, empowering
junior designers with real-time feedback and opportunities to grow. Her commitment to design excellence and her role as an advocate for innovation through firm-wide initiatives have positioned her as a thought leader within the industry. Notably, Alexandra’s work has garnered recognition from prominent publications and organizations, including Global Gaming Business Magazine’s Top 40 Under 40 and the San Diego Business Journal’s “Leaders of Influence” in design. As a Senior Associate, Alexandra continues to inspire and lead by example, ensuring HBG’s future success.
Kalyn Johnson, Associate
Kalyn Johnson’s calm confidence and proactive approach have made her an indispensable leader at HBG Design. Her ability to seamlessly step into key roles demonstrates her adaptability and dedication to excellence. Kalyn’s technical expertise, combined with her strategic thinking and mentorship, has set a high standard within the interiors group. She has spearheaded risk management initiatives and created a knowledge hub to support her colleagues’ growth. Kalyn’s rare blend of technical precision, conceptual creativity, and empathetic leadership makes her a true unicorn in the industry. Her ability to connect and inspire her team ensures that HBG continues to deliver innovative and successful projects.
Kristen Dixon, Associate
Kristen Dixon has emerged as a vital contributor to HBG Design’s success, excelling in her role as a project architect and team leader. Kristen’s dedication to delivering meticulously coordinated and high-quality designs is matched by her ability to foster collaboration among project stakeholders. She approaches challenges with a solutions-oriented mindset and a focus on maintaining strong client relationships. Kristen’s commitment to professional growth and her passion for mentorship have left a lasting impact on her colleagues. As an Associate, Kristen is poised to further strengthen HBG’s reputation for excellence in design and project delivery.
Ryan Callahan, Associate
Ryan Callahan’s enthusiasm for community-focused design has defined his career at HBG Design. His work on projects such as Third Church of Christ Scientist exemplifies his ability to create spaces that inspire connection and enrich communities. Ryan’s thoughtful design approach and attention to detail have earned him recognition as a trusted team member and leader. His collaborative spirit and dedication to fostering innovation within his team make him a natural fit for his new role as Associate. Ryan’s vision and leadership will undoubtedly contribute to HBG’s continued success.
Patty Sprecco Johnson, Associate
Patty Sprecco’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping the operations and culture of HBG Design’s San Diego office. Since joining HBG seven years ago, Patty has played a key role in managing the office’s operations, including
overseeing service contracts, coordinating with building management, and navigating California’s complex regulatory landscape to ensure compliance. She has also been a driving force behind fostering a positive work environment that has supported the San Diego office’s growth to four times its original size. Now as HR Coordinator, Patty has taken on the responsibility of leading performance management processes for the San Diego and Dallas offices, demonstrating her ability to handle sensitive and impactful conversations with professionalism and care. Her dedication and leadership have left an indelible mark on HBG Design, and as an Associate, Patty continues to champion the firm’s values and mission.
Please join us in congratulating these outstanding individuals on their well-deserved promotions. Their dedication, leadership, and passion for design excellence ensure that HBG Design’s future is brighter than ever.
HBG Design’s KBCI Volunteer Days – Dallas in Action: Building Stronger Communities with Hearts and Hammers
At HBG Design, our dedication to creating meaningful connections with our communities shines through the Kirk Bobo Creating Impact (KBCI) Grant and Outreach Initiative. This program, named in honor of our co-founder, combines financial support, design expertise, and employee volunteerism to make a tangible difference in the lives of others.
Following the success of our Memphis team’s efforts at Windridge Park, the spotlight shifted to our Dallas office, where the team embodied the spirit of the KBCI initiative by partnering with Hearts and Hammers to preserve a cherished home and uplift a homeowner in need.
Revitalizing a Home, Uplifting a Life
On Tuesday, November 19, the HBG Design Dallas team joined forces with Hearts and Hammers, a nonprofit organization that provides essential exterior home repairs for low-income homeowners, including senior citizens, disabled individuals, and veterans.
During this impactful volunteer day, the Dallas team worked diligently to assist a 93-year-old homeowner, ensuring they could continue living independently in the home they love. The team’s efforts included:
- Trimming and painting to give the home a fresh, vibrant exterior,
- Staining the front door to create a polished and inviting look,
- Repairing gutters for improved drainage and long-term protection, and
- Completing minor but crucial repairs that enhance safety and functionality.
This heartfelt work reflects HBG Design’s core mission of enhancing lives and building stronger communities.
The Mission of Hearts and Hammers
For over 30 years, Hearts and Hammers has been a beacon of hope in the Dallas community, helping homeowners address structural and aesthetic issues that can compromise their ability to remain in their homes. By tackling these repairs, the organization creates stability and security for vulnerable individuals, often providing them with the support needed to avoid relocation.
Our partnership with Hearts and Hammers exemplifies the powerful impact that collaborative volunteerism can have—not only for the recipient but for the neighborhood as a whole.
Building Team Spirit and Connection
Beyond the physical improvements made to the home, this volunteer day fostered meaningful connections—both with the homeowner and within our team. As the Dallas colleagues worked side by side, they strengthened bonds and reinforced their shared commitment to giving back. The day was a testament to how teamwork and compassion can drive impactful change.
Looking Ahead: San Diego on Deck
With Memphis and Dallas having successfully completed their KBCI Volunteer Days, the focus now turns to HBG Design’s San Diego office. Next up, our San Diego team will collaborate with Fred Finch Youth & Family Services to create inspiring spaces for at-risk youth and families.
Stay tuned for the final installment of our three-part series, where we’ll celebrate the efforts of our San Diego colleagues and continue the KBCI legacy of service and transformation.
Thank you to our Dallas team for exemplifying the heart of HBG Design and for bringing our mission to life through meaningful action! Together, we’re creating lasting change—one community at a time.
HBG Design’s KBCI Volunteer Days - Memphis in Action: Revitalizing Windridge Park with Memphis City Beautiful
Part 1: Memphis Sets the Standard for Beautification and Service
At HBG Design, our passion for community engagement comes to life through the Kirk Bobo Creating Impact (KBCI) Grant and Outreach Initiative. Named in honor of co-founder Kirk Bobo, this annual program combines financial support, design expertise, and employee volunteerism to drive meaningful change in the communities we serve.
This year, our Memphis, San Diego, and Dallas offices are taking part in a series of KBCI Volunteer Days, each partnering with local nonprofit organizations to make a difference. First up: the Memphis office.
A Fresh Start for Windridge Park
On Friday, November 15, the Memphis team joined forces with Memphis City Beautiful to revitalize Windridge Park and Elementary School. With tools in hand and a mission to create a more inviting space, our volunteers:
- Cleared litter from the playground and park grounds,
- Refreshed landscaping to enhance the park's appearance, and
- Restored the park’s natural beauty for families and children to enjoy.
This collaborative effort left a lasting impact on the community while fostering teamwork and camaraderie within our own office.
Partnering with Memphis City Beautiful
Since its founding in 1930, Memphis City Beautiful has been a trailblazer in environmental stewardship as the nation’s first beautification commission. Their mission—to create a clean, green, and beautiful Memphis—perfectly aligns with HBG Design’s commitment to improving the quality of life in our communities.
By working together, we’re not only enhancing public spaces but also supporting a vision for a brighter future.
The Legacy of KBCI in Memphis
Over the years, HBG Design’s Memphis office has contributed to many transformative projects under the KBCI initiative, including:
- Tillman Sculpture Park with Carpenter Art Garden: Creating an outdoor space for art and nature to come together in the Binghampton community.
- Paint Memphis Mural Arts Festival: Adding vibrant, large-scale murals that celebrate the city’s creativity and diversity.
- Heights CDC at Treadwell Middle School: Designing and implementing a welcoming new entryway for this vital community hub.
These projects underscore our dedication to using our expertise to build stronger, more vibrant communities.
Coming Soon: San Diego and Dallas Join the Effort
With the Memphis project complete, the spotlight now shifts to HBG Design’s San Diego and Dallas offices, which are gearing up for their own KBCI Volunteer Days.
- In San Diego, our team will partner with Fred Finch Youth & Family Services to enhance spaces that support at-risk youth and families.
- In Dallas, our office will collaborate with Hearts and Hammers to repair and improve homes for those in need.
Each project will bring a unique opportunity to make a meaningful difference, furthering the KBCI mission across the country.
Stay Tuned for More!
This post marks the first in a three-part series celebrating HBG Design’s KBCI Volunteer Days. Check back soon for updates from San Diego and Dallas as they continue this legacy of service and impact.
Together, we’re transforming communities and creating lasting change—one project at a time.
Crafting Memorable Stays: HBG Celebrates 45-Years Designing Branded Hotels
As the #3 ranked hospitality design firm in the U.S. by Hotel Business magazine, HBG Design has built its expertise in designing branded hotels over a 45-year history. From developing vertical prototypes for Holiday Inn to creating design extensions for the Gaylord Hotels brand (now part of Marriott), HBG Design has played a key role in shaping the landscape of commercial hotel brands. Over the past two decades, the firm has expanded its portfolio to include notable projects for brands such as Canopy by Hilton, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, IHG, Hyatt, and Marriott. HBG Design’s deep experience and innovative approach to hospitality design have established the firm as a leader in this space.
A History of Excellence in Branded Hotel Design
HBG Design’s journey in branded hotel design began with early projects like vertical prototypes for Holiday Inn and helping establish the Homewood Suites brand for Hilton. As the firm expanded, it took on more complex projects such as designing Gaylord Palms and Texan Resorts, contributing to the growth of these iconic brands. In recent years, HBG has collaborated with major hotel brands to craft properties for Hilton’s Canopy and Tapestry Collection, and enhanced prototypes for IHG and Hyatt properties.
These decades of experience have resulted in a deep understanding of brand standards, market expectations, and guest preferences, allowing HBG to create cohesive and brand-aligned experiences that appeal to both hotel owners and guests alike.
HBG Design’s Collaborative Approach
At the heart of HBG’s design process is collaboration. The firm’s strategic and creative workshop-style approach fosters active engagement between owners and designers, ensuring that each project is tailored to enhance guest experiences, while also meeting operational and budgetary needs. By diving deep into discussions about customer preferences, design aesthetics, and operational priorities, HBG Design aligns its concepts with long-term property goals for both new builds and renovations.
HBG's proprietary workshops and visualization processes help stakeholders make informed decisions early in the design process. This collaborative approach accelerates coordination, leading to seamless communication and faster design iterations that keep the project on track.
Expertise in Hotel Design Elements
HBG Design’s expertise spans every element of hotel design, from guestrooms and suites to food and beverage (F&B) venues, event spaces, spas, and back-of-house operations. The firm’s integrated architecture and interior design teams work hand-in-hand to ensure that each aspect of the hotel environment is thoughtfully considered and aligned with the overall design vision.
- Guestrooms and Suites: HBG focuses on creating spaces that balance comfort, durability, and operational efficiency, with a deep understanding of how guests interact with their rooms.
- F&B Venues: HBG’s expertise in designing flexible and multifunctional F&B spaces ensures that these venues not only meet guest needs throughout the day but also elevate the overall guest experience. From vibrant coffee bars to sophisticated fine dining, the firm designs F&B spaces that adapt to changing guest dynamics while maintaining brand consistency.
- Public and Event Spaces: Whether designing conference centers, meeting rooms, or event spaces, HBG ensures these areas provide seamless functionality for both guests and staff. The goal is to craft spaces that inspire and facilitate memorable guest experiences.
- Spa Amenities: With years of experience designing spa environments, HBG understands how to create tranquil, wellness-focused spaces that are both visually appealing and operationally efficient.
Design that Aligns with Brand Vision and Operational Efficiency
HBG Design’s approach goes beyond aesthetics, focusing on how design can drive operational success. The firm works closely with hotel stakeholders to ensure designs not only align with the brand’s vision but also improve operational efficiency. This includes strategic design decisions that optimize guest flow, staff workflows, and overall functionality, while also ensuring durability and ease of maintenance.
Additionally, HBG is known for its meticulous documentation process, which includes comprehensive design guides that ensure every detail is well-documented and ready for implementation. This integrated process helps streamline construction, reduce delays, and improve overall project outcomes.
Elevating Guest Experience through Design
HBG Design’s commitment to delivering top-tier hospitality environments is driven by its understanding of the guest experience. The firm crafts spaces that tell a cohesive design story, creating a sensory journey for guests as they move from one area of the hotel to another. Whether it’s a serene guestroom or a bustling F&B venue, every element is carefully curated to enhance the overall experience while reinforcing the brand identity.
HBG Design also integrates wellness, sustainability, and market needs into each project, ensuring that the final design is not only beautiful but also functional and future-proof.
A Proven Track Record in Hotel Renovations and Prototype Enhancements
With a wealth of experience in property improvements and brand prototype implementations, HBG Design brings valuable perspective to renovation projects. The firm’s expertise enables it to find innovative solutions that elevate both aesthetics and operational efficiency while staying within budget constraints.
HBG Design also stays ahead of industry trends by incorporating the latest technology, finishes, and design strategies that meet the evolving expectations of both hotel owners and guests. This forward-thinking approach ensures that every project stands out in an increasingly competitive market.
HBG Design’s decades of experience in branded hotel design have made the firm a leader in creating exceptional hospitality environments. Through its collaborative, workshop-driven design process and deep expertise in every element of hotel design, HBG delivers high-quality, innovative solutions that drive guest satisfaction and operational success. From new builds to renovations, HBG Design consistently meets the needs of both guests and stakeholders, ensuring long-term project success.
Beyond the Floor: Energizing Casino Perimeters
At HBG Design, our entertainment design specialists understand that today’s casino resort guests crave dynamic, immersive amenity experiences. That's why energizing the perimeter of the casino with the right food, beverage, and entertainment options is critical to shaping a well-rounded, engaging environment. Our recent renovation work at the Atlantis Bahamas Casino, which includes the enhanced Moon Bar and the newly introduced Bar Sol, demonstrates the power of thoughtfully integrated design in transforming the casino experience.
Strategic Floorplan and Sightlines: Enhancing Guest Interaction
In designing and renovating casino environments, the layout of the space plays a pivotal role. Sightlines and spatial flow are essential in creating a connection between the gaming floor and the surrounding venues. At Atlantis Bahamas, our goal was to invite guests to interact with the casino even when taking a break from the games.
The Moon Bar was reimagined and expanded to feature an elevated lounge area that overlooks the gaming floor. This elevated position allows guests to stay visually connected to the energy of the casino, maintaining their engagement with the gaming action while enjoying a cocktail or socializing. The design draws guests into a space that feels both intimate and part of the larger casino experience, a balance that is key to energizing the perimeter of a gaming environment.
Entertainment as a Bridge to the Gaming Floor
The integration of live music and entertainment options is another critical element in keeping the casino perimeter vibrant. We designed Bar Sol, a newly added venue inspired by the late Sol Kerzner’s dedication to Bahamian art and culture, with this concept in mind. Bar Sol's central location on the casino floor, paired with its raised stage and nightly live music performances, creates a fluid interaction between the casino and its entertainment offerings.
As guests gather at Bar Sol, whether for a drink or to enjoy live music, they remain visually connected to the gaming floor, experiencing the energy of the casino from a new vantage point. By incorporating entertainment venues like Bar Sol directly into the casino floorplan, we create opportunities for guests to transition effortlessly between gaming and entertainment, ensuring that the excitement never stops.
Design and Atmosphere: Reflecting Local Culture and Elegance
In addition to strategic layout and entertainment, the atmosphere of these venues is key to their success.
“At Moon Bar, we enhanced the "celestial sky" theme by incorporating illuminated and reflective materials that create a shimmering, sophisticated ambiance,” says Christine Wass, lead Interior designer for the Atlantis renovation, “This atmosphere draws guests in, offering an elevated experience that contrasts with the high energy of the gaming floor while still feeling connected to it.”
Bar Sol, inspired by Bahamian music and culture, features a restored Chihuly chandelier as its centerpiece. This stunning art piece, with its warm gold hues, sets the tone for a venue that blends elegance with vibrant entertainment. Guests are not only drawn to Bar Sol for its artistic design but also for its immersive cultural experience, making it a must-visit destination within the Atlantis Casino.
Energizing the Perimeter: A Comprehensive Approach
The work we’ve completed at Atlantis Bahamas Casino highlights how food, beverage, and entertainment venues can be thoughtfully integrated into the casino environment to keep guests engaged throughout their stay. By strategically designing sightlines, enhancing floorplans to allow for interaction between the gaming floor and surrounding venues, and incorporating live entertainment, we create spaces that elevate the overall casino experience.
At HBG Design, we understand that modern casinos are multifaceted entertainment destinations. Energizing the perimeter with well-curated, beautifully designed venues like the Moon Bar and Bar Sol not only extends the time guests spend on property but also enhances their connection to the casino’s dynamic environment, ensuring a memorable and engaging experience.
HBG Design Recognized as a 2024 Best Place to Work
HBG Design is proud to announce that it has been named a winner in the San Diego Business Journal’s “Best Places to Work 2024” awards. Being recognized as #14 (mid-size companies) out of hundreds of entries in the highly-competitive program underscores HBG’s commitment to creating a dynamic and supportive workplace culture that fosters innovation, collaboration, and employee satisfaction.
“Our team is the driving force behind our success, and we are dedicated to maintaining an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to achieve their best,” said Nathan Peak, HBG President & Practice Leader.
The San Diego Business Journal’s Best Places to Work awards evaluate companies based on their workplace policies and practices, growth potential and opportunities for employees, corporate culture, benefits and compensation, access to management, and corporate values. This accolade is a testament to HBG’s ongoing efforts to create a thriving workplace where employees are motivated and engaged. The evaluation process was based on an employee survey conducted by Workforce Resource Group, assessing topics like management effectiveness, employee perks, growth opportunities, and overall company culture.
“We are incredibly grateful to our dedicated and energized team,” said Joe Baruffaldi, Orange Group Leader, “their commitment to our shared values is such an important part of what makes HBG Design the kind of company where everyone is excited to contribute and be part of something really special.”
