A Tropical Escape in the Heart of Michigan: The Wawyé Oasis
When winter grips Michigan in icy temperatures, guests at Gun Lake Casino Resort are now floating beneath a sunlit glass dome in a lush, 82-degree tropical paradise. Debuting in May 2025, the six-story, 32,000-square-foot Wawyé Oasis redefines what’s possible for year-round resort design—seamlessly shifting from daytime pool retreat to high-capacity concert venue, nightclub, and banquet space. Shaped by solar studies and engineered as a massive glass “sundial,” the Oasis is both sculptural and supremely functional, capturing natural daylight while shielding guests from the region’s harsh climate.
As the architectural and experiential centerpiece of Gun Lake’s $300 million expansion, the Oasis anchors a new 252-room hotel and full-service spa—establishing the resort as a true “daycation” destination for guests across Michigan and major Midwest markets. From bird-safe, low-E glass and climate-responsive HVAC systems to flexible acoustics, dynamic lighting, and thoughtfully zoned guest experiences, every element was precision-engineered to support comfort, performance, and unforgettable entertainment.
The result is more than a building—it’s a fully immersive, adaptable environment where architecture, engineering, and guest experience converge in spectacular fashion.
▶ Watch the full design thinking video to explore the innovation behind the Wawyé Oasis—and flip through the complete Project Design Release for detailed insights into the architecture, engineering, sustainability strategies, and guest experience that bring this extraordinary destination to life.
Five Standout Employee Promotions Announced at HBG
Ensuring Longevity & Celebrating Growth
HBG Design is proud to announce the promotion of four employees to Associate and one to Senior Associate—each exemplifying the firm’s commitment to cultivating leadership from within. These elevations reflect the depth of talent, drive, and creative excellence across our integrated practice.
Our newly promoted Senior Associate, Thor Harland, along with new Associates Lindsay Maggipinto, Megan Collier, Jim Wadlington, and Mark Rojas, represent the strength, diversity, and forward momentum of HBG’s growing team. Together, they embody the creative thinking, technical proficiency, and collaborative spirit that define our contribution to the built environment and enrich our firm culture.
Associates and Senior Associates play a vital role in shaping the future of HBG. They mentor colleagues, advance education and outreach, and support our ongoing efforts to integrate process improvements, innovation, and diverse perspectives into everything we do. Thor, Lindsay, Megan, Jim, and Mark are clear examples of these values in action.
Megan Collier, Associate – San Diego Office
Megan Collier, Associate – San Diego OfficeInterior Designer Megan Collier is recognized for her thoughtful leadership, client engagement, and collaborative approach. Her work spans hospitality interiors, construction administration, and design presentations, all supported by a balance of creativity and pragmatism.
Promotion Highlights:
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Provides patient, supportive mentorship to junior staff and interns, fostering a culture of continuous learning.
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Builds trust through adaptive communication and strong relationship-building across diverse stakeholder groups.
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Balances innovation with budget constraints, making strategic choices that lead to high-quality outcomes.
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Contributes to a positive office environment by sharing insights, helping solve challenges, and organizing interdisciplinary team activities.
Jim Wadlington, Associate – Memphis Office
Jim Wadlington, Associate – Memphis OfficeJim Wadlington earned his promotion through impressive adaptability, leadership, and operational excellence during a pivotal transition period for the firm.
Promotion Highlights:
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Quickly mastered company financial operations and a new accounting platform under tight deadlines and high pressure.
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Built a cohesive, high-performing financial services team within a short period.
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Improved financial reporting, accelerated month-end processes by 15 days, and strengthened project management support.
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Demonstrated dependable, transparent leadership—consistently raising standards and earning firm-wide trust.
Lindsay Maggipinto, Associate – Memphis Office
Lindsay Maggipinto, Associate – Memphis OfficeReturning to HBG with expanded expertise, Lindsay Maggipinto made an immediate impact through her technical excellence, leadership, and project ownership.
Promotion Highlights:
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Brings a unique career trajectory that includes years of experience both inside and outside HBG, enriching her leadership and perspective.
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Leads complex project tasks with precision, often solving challenges rapidly and efficiently.
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Mentors junior staff, providing technical guidance and reinforcing strong workplace habits and problem-solving skills.
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Advocates for thoughtful, balanced design decisions while maintaining clear communication and a composed leadership style.
Mark Rojas, Associate – San Diego Office
Mark Rojas, Associate – San Diego OfficeMark Rojas is celebrated for his resilience, technical expertise, and contributions to process innovation within the growing San Diego office.
Promotion Highlights:
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Demonstrates an ability to navigate complex systems and shifting priorities with resourcefulness and calm.
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Leads projects while also serving as BIM coordinator and contributing to firm initiatives focused on standards and quality.
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Improved firm-wide consistency by developing a system for managing building envelope assemblies that streamlined scheduling.
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Helps shape office culture through strong communication, professionalism, and a steady, positive presence.
Thor Harland, Senior Associate – Memphis Office
Thor Harland, Senior Associate – Memphis OfficeThor Harland is recognized for his leadership, creativity, and holistic approach to design and project delivery.
Promotion Highlights:
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Provides steady, focused leadership in high-stakes environments, guiding teams through demanding schedules and complex challenges.
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Strengthens design impact through authentic concept development and strong, clear communication with stakeholders.
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Mentors junior staff across offices, fostering collaboration, shared learning, and design innovation.
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Bridges architecture and interiors to ensure cohesive project integration supported by detailed presentations and effective coordination.
A Curated Look at BDNY 2025: Materials, Trends & Designer Insights
Set in the cultural capital of New York City, Boutique Design New York (BDNY) brings together the hospitality industry’s leading voices, brands, and creators. It’s a vibrant convergence of design innovation—where boutique hotel concepts, emerging materials, and experiential environments take center stage. For designers looking to push boundaries, grow their expertise, and tap into what’s next, BDNY continues to be one of the most influential events of the year.
As part of HBG Design’s longstanding tradition of attending BDNY each year, we sent two talented interior designers—Megan Peel from our Memphis office and Kristina Hoang from our San Diego office—to experience the show firsthand. Their insights reveal the trends, materials, and moments shaping the future of hospitality design, and how those discoveries directly elevate HBG’s work for our clients.
Spotlighting Emerging Trends: A Recap from Megan Peel, Interior Designer (Memphis)
Natural stone as sculptural furniture was an early standout for Megan, who noticed designers applying stone in unexpected ways—wrapping sofa backs, accenting dining chairs, and adding mass and luxury to typically lighter pieces. These approaches signal a shift toward furnishings that feel more permanent, architectural, and artful.
She also saw deep color saturation and color-drenched environments continuing to gain momentum. Many exhibitors reinterpreted vintage or elaborate stylistic elements through rich hues and layered finishes—showcasing how the past can be thoughtfully transformed into the present.
A notable aesthetic direction was the resurgence of East-Asian design influences, appearing in carpet patterns, screens, and subtle architectural accents. Complementing these quieter palettes were natural textures inspired by water, reflected in rippled metals and glass incorporated into ceiling panels, headboards, partitions, and tables.
For Megan, BDNY served as more than a trend-spotting opportunity—it was a relationship-building experience with real project impact. Designers were able to walk the show with a potential HBG client, gaining early insight into their aesthetic preferences and material expectations while meeting vendors who could support future project needs. The show also reinforced the power of storytelling and how physical materials can center the guest experience in unexpected ways.
Design Evolution & Elevated Detailing: A Recap from Kristina Hoang, Interior Designer (San Diego)
Kristina observed that the curved forms trending in recent years have evolved into a more refined, contemporary language. Exhibitors showcased cleaner detailing, more intentional craftsmanship, and unique ways of expressing organic shapes—making these silhouettes feel sophisticated and fresh.
Across material palettes, she noted a noticeable pivot toward richer, more vibrant earth tones. Instead of the muted desert colors popular in past years, designers embraced mossy greens, deep plums, caramels, woven textiles, and exaggerated pattern scales. The overall direction was tactile, bold, and layered.
While exploring furniture, lighting, and art curation, Kristina found multiple moments of inspiration that will help infuse that same energy into HBG’s hotel and resort projects.
How BDNY Strengthens HBG’s Design Leadership
As both Megan and Kristina shared, BDNY offers powerful advantages for our project teams and our clients:
- Early access to the products, materials, and ideas shaping the next era of hospitality
- Direct connection with manufacturers and vendors, strengthening the sourcing and specification process
- Unique opportunities to walk the show with clients, gaining real-time insights into their preferences
- Inspiration that fuels fresh, guest-centered design solutions
BDNY continues to push the industry forward—and HBG’s designers return each year with renewed energy, deeper knowledge, and a stronger network of partners to support exceptional hospitality environments.
A New Era of Entertainment Rises in the Oklahoma Panhandle at Golden Mesa Casino & Hotel
Warmth, Light, and Modern Comfort: A New Era of Entertainment Rises in the Oklahoma Panhandle at Golden Mesa Casino & Hotel, Guymon, Oklahoma
The $78 million expansion of Golden Mesa Casino & Hotel has redefined entertainment and hospitality in Oklahoma’s Panhandle, transforming the Shawnee Tribe’s vision into a vibrant destination that celebrates both culture and community. The project doubles the casino’s gaming capacity to more than 1,100 electronic games and 10 tables across a 40,000-square-foot gaming floor, introduces a 99-room hotel and a 45-slip RV park, and adds new dining and lounge experiences that elevate guest comfort and connection. From the Cimarron Ridge Restaurant and Panhandle Press Café to the dynamic high-limit room and two lively casino bars, every new space was purposefully crafted to enrich the guest journey and offer a warm, contemporary sense of hospitality.
Across the new hotel tower, the elevator lobbies introduce a subtle thematic progression—each level reflecting a “dusk-to-dawn” concept through shifting wallcovering tones. Guestroom corridors extend this narrative with soft, ambient lighting and a warm, textural palette. Inside the guestrooms and suites, neutral foundations pair with bright accents inspired by the region’s open skies and sunlit plains, creating spaces that feel both grounded and refreshingly modern.
Lighting plays a defining role in shaping the atmosphere of Golden Mesa—both as a functional tool and an expressive design element. The exterior façades feature a distinctive cross-weave illumination that animates the architecture at night, while the lobby’s soaring atrium showcases a glowing geometric chandelier that sets an elegant tone for arrival. Throughout the property, lighting transitions seamlessly between hospitality and entertainment zones, guiding guests from calm to energy, from relaxation to anticipation. Every glow and reflection reinforces the resort’s identity as a destination that subtly shifts in mood from day into night.
Architecturally and operationally, the expansion embodies graceful growth—an evolution of the property’s design that preserved full operations throughout construction while introducing a new benchmark for resort-style amenities in the region. Warm yet contemporary prairie-inspired materials, the dramatic new porte cochere, and the signature nighttime lighting pattern establish a welcoming exterior presence; while inside, the clearstory hotel lobby, geometric fixtures, and rich layers of color and texture create an atmosphere of approachable comfort and elevated luxury. Together, these elements position Golden Mesa Casino & Hotel as a beacon of progress and pride for the Shawnee Tribe and a standout destination for travelers across the Panhandle.
Delivering a project of this scale on time and on budget required extraordinary coordination between the owner, operator, and design and construction teams. HBG Design’s ability to anticipate operational needs and sustain continuous functionality was essential to the project’s success. The team’s challenge was to merge the new with the existing without visual or functional disruption—an effort that highlights the depth of talent within HBG’s architecture and interior design studios and the strength of collaboration with Global Gaming Solutions, Connect Advisors, and the Chickasaw Nation.
“Future Unfolding”: HBG Emerging Professionals Reflect on NOMA 2025 Insights
HBG Design’s emerging professionals explore the power of connection, mentorship, and inclusive design at the 2025 NOMA Conference in Kansas City.
HBG Design’s young architectural professionals, Carmen Fluellen and Joshua Yarbrough, recently attended the 2025 National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) Conference in Kansas City, Missouri. This year’s theme, “Future Unfolding,” challenged attendees to reimagine an equitable and inclusive future for the built environment—one rooted in care, collaboration, and community impact.
Designing With, Not For: Building Trust Through Collaboration
Reflecting on the experience, Carmen Fluellen noted that two ideas stood out most:
“The networkability of the conference was incredible—professionals across disciplines and experience levels were genuinely welcoming and curious about each other’s work. And the recurring theme of ‘designing with, not for’ resonated deeply. Speakers emphasized the importance of building trust through hands-on collaboration in planning, programming, and feasibility studies—truly partnering with clients and communities to co-create meaningful solutions.”
Carmen, who has been involved with NOMA since 2015, continues to stay active in the local Memphis chapter and currently serves as Social Media Chair.
“Our next chapter meeting will be held on November 18 at 6:30 p.m. at Aaron Patrick Architects in Clark Tower,” he shared. “It’s open to everyone—designers, students, and anyone interested in building community through design.”
Exploring Ideas and Innovation
Among the conference’s many inspiring sessions, Joshua and Carmen were struck by the variety of topics that bridged design, technology, and social impact.
A highlight for both was the keynote by Dr. Ruha Benjamin, who explored the intersection of artificial intelligence and the human experience in design.
“We often assume technology is in the driver’s seat, but humans are missing,” Benjamin said. “The desire and ideology that we as humans possess is what’s missing behind these newer technologies.”
Her talk urged attendees to question who truly owns the future—and how designers can guide that future with empathy, awareness, and responsibility.
Technology, Creativity, and Sustainability in Tandem
Fluellen was particularly inspired by a hybrid steel-timber gravity structural system that offers lightweight installation and adaptability for future redesigns. He also noted the creative use of color and form as cost-effective ways to elevate design expression—proof that innovation doesn’t always require high budgets.
Meaningful Engagement Beyond the Checklist
Several sessions focused on design equity, cultural storytelling, and authentic community engagement. One takeaway that struck Fluellen was a warning against becoming a “check-the-box architect.”
“Every requirement on a checklist impacts someone’s experience—owners, end users, or the surrounding community. Community engagement isn’t about what we can give to the community, but about understanding what the community feels it’s missing,” he shared. “That connection leads to more inclusive, lasting design outcomes.”
Speakers shared examples of projects that used cultural storytelling to revive neighborhoods, combat gentrification, and increase productivity in educational and workplace settings.
The Power of Representation and Mentorship
The NOMA Conference is one of the most diverse professional events in the design industry, bringing together over 1,500 architects, designers, and 500 students from across the country. Both Carmen and Joshua found that sense of belonging and collaboration especially powerful.
Joshua, who has been involved with NOMA since 2019, previously served as the organization’s Student Liaison for four years and helped restart the NOMAS Student Chapter at the University of Memphis in 2023–2024.
“The conference was amazing,” Joshua said. “If you’re a designer, whether in architecture or interiors, NOMA is something you should consider.”
Carmen echoed the same sentiment:
“It was inspiring to be surrounded by so many voices and perspectives. Mentorship came up often—true mentorship that benefits both mentor and mentee. That’s how our profession continues to grow.”
The Future, Ever Unfolding
When asked what “Future Unfolding” meant to him, Fluellen reflected:
“The future is always unfolding—economically, technologically, professionally. The key is to stay grounded in what makes you ‘you,’ while pushing yourself to evolve and engage where it matters most.”
He left the conference energized by words shared from a speaker that perfectly captured the spirit of the event:
“Don’t just think of those in the room—think of those who are missing, but should be there, or will one day be there.”
Supporting Emerging Talent at HBG
HBG Design proudly supports its emerging professionals through opportunities like NOMA, recognizing the value of continued learning and diverse professional engagement. Carmen’s and Joshua’s participation in the 2025 NOMA Conference reflects HBG’s ongoing investment in developing future leaders—those who bring forward-thinking design, empathy, and inclusivity to every project.
“Attending NOMA reminded me that architecture’s impact reaches far beyond the building—it’s about people, connection, and community,” Carmen said.
For HBG’s next generation of designers, experiences like NOMA are shaping not only their professional growth but also the future of equitable, meaningful design.
HBG Design’s Kalyn Johnson Named Among 2026 Emerging Leaders of Gaming
See article in Global Gaming Business Magazine
HBG Design proudly celebrates Kalyn Johnson, Associate and Lead Interior Designer, for being named to the 2026 Emerging Leaders of Gaming 40 Under 40, an honor recognizing the industry’s brightest rising talent shaping the future of gaming and hospitality.
Kalyn’s decade-long journey at HBG Design is a story of creativity, precision, and leadership. Starting as an intern in 2014, she quickly rose through the ranks—earning recognition for her ability to merge conceptual artistry with technical excellence to create immersive resort environments across the U.S.
Designing Experiences that Resonate
From luxury hotel towers to high-energy entertainment venues, Kalyn’s work exemplifies HBG’s mission to design experiences that delight and inspire. Her recent projects include the $300 million expansion of Michigan’s Gun Lake Casino Resort, transforming it into a four-diamond destination anchored by a 252-key hotel tower and the striking two-story Ogema Suite. Kalyn also helped energize the property’s gaming floor through the Social Bar & Lounge, a vibrant hub for social connection and entertainment.
At WinStar World Casino in Oklahoma, she brought new life to the F&B outlets supporting the Lucas Oil Live event center, and at Four Winds Casino South Bend in Indiana, she crafted a culturally resonant arrival experience that celebrates community and place.
Rooted in Curiosity and Collaboration
Kalyn approaches every project through the lens of the guest journey—imagining how visitors move, feel, and connect throughout their stay.
“Curiosity really drives me,” she shares. “I love listening to clients and hearing directly from their guests, because that feedback helps shape stronger, more thoughtful design solutions.”
That empathy extends to her collaborative process. “True success comes from the collective effort of design leaders, design teams, and clients,” she says. “If a design direction isn’t resonating, it’s an opportunity to listen more deeply and guide the team toward solutions that align with the client’s vision.”
Currently, Kalyn is leading the interior design for the $405 million Ho-Chunk Beloit Casino Resort in Wisconsin, slated to open in 2026—her most ambitious project yet. Partnering with local operators and consultants, she is helping to ensure that every detail feels authentically rooted in Wisconsin’s culture and community.
Mentorship and Leadership
Beyond her design talent, Kalyn is a natural mentor. She credits HBG Principal Deidre Brady and Interior Design Leader Emily Marshall for shaping her approach to leadership, problem-solving, and narrative-driven design.
“I’m energized by the opportunity to grow into a hospitality design role that balances creativity, strategy, and mentorship at a higher level,” she says.
A True Design ‘Unicorn’
A True Design ‘Unicorn’At HBG Design, we’ve long recognized Kalyn’s rare blend of imagination, insight, and empathy—qualities that truly make her, as Global Gaming Business Magazine describes, “a design unicorn.”
Her recognition among the 2026 Emerging Leaders of Gaming 40 Under 40 is not just a personal achievement, but a reflection of the innovation, collaboration, and heart that drive HBG Design’s culture forward.
Congratulations, Kalyn—your leadership and creativity continue to inspire us all.
HBG Design’s KBCI Volunteer Days: Designing Calming Spaces for Fred Finch Youth & Family Services
Part 2: San Diego Brings Design Thinking to Community Impact
At HBG Design, the Kirk Bobo Creating Impact (KBCI) Grant and Outreach Initiative reflects our firm’s enduring belief that great design extends beyond buildings—it has the power to change lives. Through volunteerism, creativity, and compassion, our teams across the country are working to make meaningful contributions to the communities we serve.
This fall, our San Diego office continued that mission with a hands-on volunteer design challenge benefiting Fred Finch Youth & Family Services, a long-term community partner dedicated to improving the lives of children, adolescents, and families facing complex behavioral and mental health challenges.
Partnering with Purpose: Supporting Fred Finch Youth & Family Services
HBG Design has partnered with Fred Finch since 2019 through our annual HBGives virtual donation drive and previous KBCI volunteer projects. The nonprofit’s San Diego Dual Diagnosis Program, located in Spring Valley, provides a residential treatment environment and specialized non-public school for youth ages 12 to 22 who have both intellectual disabilities and significant mental health needs. 
Their dedicated staff delivers individualized, trauma-informed care that helps youth build stability, independence, and hope for the future.
In 2019, HBG Design completed a master plan for the Dual Diagnosis campus, including the creation of a tranquil outdoor living area designed to offer residents a safe, restorative connection to nature.
This year, Fred Finch invited our San Diego team back—this time to turn their attention indoors.
A Design Challenge for Healing Spaces
The organization asked for HBG’s expertise in updating the interiors of two residential cottages that had experienced years of wear and tear. The request came with a clear but complex goal: to create interiors that feel calming and supportive—not institutional—while adhering to essential safety and durability standards.
“It’s one of those projects where every decision carries deeper meaning,” said one team member. “We wanted to show that healing environments can still feel warm, personal, and dignified.”
Materials had to be resilient, non-breakable, and carefully selected to minimize any potential risks for residents experiencing crisis.
Our San Diego team embraced this as a design challenge and split into two creative groups to develop thoughtful concepts tailored to the unique needs of Fred Finch’s program participants. Each group approached the project from a different angle—balancing empathy, functionality, and safety with inviting design aesthetics.
Designing with Compassion and Creativity
Both design teams presented their ideas directly to the staff at Fred Finch, who were deeply moved by the level of care and consideration behind each concept. The proposed designs incorporated:
- Soothing color palettes inspired by nature, promoting calm and emotional balance.
- Durable, anti-ligature materials chosen for safety and longevity.
- Flexible furnishings designed to adapt to individual needs and reduce environmental stress.
- Artwork and sensory elements that provide positive distractions and visual comfort.
Fred Finch loved the creative solutions and has already begun implementing portions of the HBG proposals, with plans to expand these updates in 2026.
Continuing a Meaningful Partnership
This collaboration represents more than just a volunteer day—it’s an ongoing relationship built on shared values of compassion, respect, and empowerment.
As HBG Design’s San Diego team continues to partner with Fred Finch Youth & Family Services, the goal remains clear: to support spaces that uplift and restore those who need it most.
Through KBCI, our firm honors the legacy of co-founder Kirk Bobo, whose belief in the transformative power of design continues to guide our community engagement today.
Together, we’re using design to make a lasting impact.
HBG Design’s 2025 KBCI Volunteer Days: Beautifying The Pinch District with Memphis City Beautiful
Part 1: Memphis Leads the Way in Community Impact and Urban Renewal
At HBG Design, our commitment to community engagement shines through the Kirk Bobo Creating Impact (KBCI) Grant and Outreach Initiative—an annual program named in honor of co-founder Kirk Bobo. This initiative blends volunteerism, financial support, and design expertise to create lasting positive change in the communities where we live and work.
This year, our Memphis, San Diego, and Dallas offices each teamed up with local nonprofits to make a tangible difference through KBCI Volunteer Days. First up, our Memphis team took to the heart of downtown for a project that brought new life to one of the city’s most visible streets.
On Friday, October 24, our Memphis office partnered with Memphis City Beautiful, the nation’s first and longest-running beautification commission, for a day dedicated to cleaning and greening North Main Street—just steps away from the iconic Memphis Pyramid.
Memphis City Beautiful organized the event alongside their partner organizations, Memphis Native Tree Works and the Memphis Medical District Collaborative, bringing together a coalition of volunteers dedicated to enhancing the downtown environment.
Our HBG Design volunteers rolled up their sleeves to:
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🌿 Replant and refresh large planters lining North Main Street with vibrant new greenery,
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🧹 Clear litter and debris from sidewalks and curbs, and
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✨ Restore curb appeal and pedestrian appeal to one of Memphis’s most historic corridors.
What began as a morning of teamwork quickly transformed into a celebration of collaboration, camaraderie, and civic pride. The group’s efforts created a more inviting experience for residents, visitors, and local businesses along this key downtown thoroughfare.
“It’s amazing to see how a few hours of teamwork and creativity can make such a visible difference,” said one volunteer. “We’re proud to play a small part in keeping Memphis beautiful.”
Working Together for a Greener Memphis
Founded in 1930, Memphis City Beautiful continues to set the national standard for environmental stewardship and community pride. Their mission—to create a cleaner, greener, and more beautiful Memphis—perfectly aligns with HBG Design’s belief in the power of design and service to improve quality of life.
This year’s effort was strengthened through collaboration with Memphis Native Tree Works, an organization that promotes the use of native plants and trees to support sustainable urban ecosystems, and the Memphis Medical District Collaborative, which works to enhance the livability and connectivity of the city’s core neighborhoods.
Together, these groups—and our HBG volunteers—helped re-energize North Main Street through teamwork and shared vision.
Continuing Our Partnership with Memphis City Beautiful
Founded in 1930, Memphis City Beautiful continues to set the standard for environmental stewardship and community pride. Its mission—to create a cleaner, greener, and more beautiful Memphis—aligns perfectly with HBG Design’s belief in the power of design and service to improve quality of life.
This ongoing partnership allows our team to combine hands-on volunteerism with a shared vision for urban renewal and civic responsibility.
Honoring Kirk Bobo’s Legacy
Through each KBCI project, we honor Kirk Bobo’s enduring legacy of giving back. His belief that design should make a positive impact—in the built environment and beyond—continues to inspire how we engage with our communities today.
This year’s North Main Street cleanup not only beautified a key downtown area but also strengthened the bond between our colleagues, our city, and the greater purpose behind our work.
Looking Ahead
With Memphis leading the way, our San Diego and Dallas offices will soon host their own KBCI Volunteer Days, each partnering with local organizations to uplift their surrounding communities. Stay tuned for more stories of service, creativity, and impact as the KBCI initiative continues across the country.
Together, we’re transforming communities—one project, one partnership, and one act of service at a time.
The Future Is Social: Designing the Next Generation of Casino Experiences
Casinos have long been defined by energy, excitement, and entertainment—but today, it’s the experience of that energy that’s evolving. That’s exactly what HBG Design Principal Paul Bell explored during his panel at the 2025 Global Gaming Expo. If you missed the session, here’s a quick recap.
Designing for Connection: The Rise of the Social Casino
Today’s players are looking for more than a place to play—they’re seeking vibe, community, and culture.
Industry data shows that over 80% of Millennials and Gen Z say non-gaming amenities are a major factor in where they choose to visit. And it’s not just about amenities—it’s about the experience they create.
HBG Design’s recent work with leading tribal and commercial resorts reflects these emerging trends, blending hospitality, entertainment, and social design into every guest touchpoint.
- Hangout Destinations: The Heartbeat of the Casino
Modern casino resorts are creating spaces where the main attraction is simply being there.
- At Live! Casino, the central bar acts as a stage—a centerpiece of energy and entertainment, with lighting and music driving a sense of excitement.
- Atlantis Casino’s Moon Bar and Bar Sol offer perfect vantage points for guests who want to be part of the buzz without playing.
- WinStar Casino’s Sessions Lounge captures a timeless social vibe, where the atmosphere itself is the experience.
These spaces thrive on design that promotes interaction, visibility, and inclusivity—places where guests can see and feel the energy of the resort.
- Summer Fun All Year: Water as a Social Magnet
From poolscapes to resort-level amenities, water is the new lifestyle anchor.
- The Cascades Pool Complex at WinStar Casino Resort transforms the property into a true resort destination, inviting guests to extend their stays beyond the gaming floor.
- At Sycuan Casino Resort, family-friendly and adult-only zones, plus a lazy river, create dynamic spaces for day-to-night socializing.
- The Wawyé Oasis at Gun Lake Casino places the poolscape in full view from the casino floor—seamlessly connecting gaming energy with leisure and relaxation.
These amenities capture a “daylife” energy—fun, shareable, and effortlessly social.
- Events as Lifestyle Engines
Events are no longer side attractions; they’re the core of the modern casino identity.
- Gun Lake Casino’s robust entertainment programming offers non-gaming attractions that keep guests coming back again and again.
- WinStar Casino Resort’s Lucas Oil Live has become a regional destination—an immersive, tech-forward performance venue that builds brand recognition and loyalty through memorable, shareable experiences.
These spaces turn entertainment into community, and casinos into hubs of cultural connection.
The Takeaway: Designing for Vibe, Not Just Volume
The future of gaming hospitality is about more than competition—it’s about connection.
Today’s guests want to feel part of something—whether it’s the energy of a live event, the relaxation of a poolside lounge, or the atmosphere of a central bar pulsing with life.
At HBG Design, we’re helping our clients lead this transformation—designing immersive, social, and lifestyle-driven environments that turn casinos into destinations of choice for the next generation of players.
Because the future of gaming isn’t about where you play—it’s about where you belong.
6 Key Insights from the 2025 Lodging Conference
Designing for the Future of Hospitality: Key Insights from the 2025 Lodging Conference
HBG Design’s Interior Design Leaders, Emily Marshall and Ross Burch attended the 2025 Lodging Conference in Phoenix—a dynamic forum exploring the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the hospitality industry today. They returned inspired by the innovative ways developers and designers are elevating guest experiences, meeting evolving expectations, and driving ROI through thoughtful design.
Here are some of the key takeaways from this year’s event:
Authenticity and Personalized Experiences Drive ROI
Panel discussions on boutique and lifestyle hotels highlighted that guests now seek tailored experiences and a sense of authenticity in their stays. Travelers want to feel connected to the local community, culture, and environment. Developers are increasingly partnering with local artists, artisans, and merchants to create bespoke experiences that not only delight guests but also encourage longer stays and higher spend.
Luxury Travel Continues to Grow
Despite broader economic pressures, the luxury market is thriving. Today’s travelers, including younger generations, are prioritizing meaningful experiences over traditional luxury. Wellness-focused resorts, immersive outdoor offerings, and curated F&B experiences are becoming essential elements in driving revenue and loyalty. Highlights include Marriott’s new Outdoor Collection and The Residences, a luxury longevity community emphasizing wellness and discovery.
Renovation and Repositioning as a Strategic Advantage
With new-build opportunities limited in many major cities, developers are increasingly investing in renovations and repositioning existing properties. Thoughtful design that is intentional, market-specific, and experience-driven can elevate a property’s appeal, generate higher returns, and differentiate it from competitors.
Design Challenges and Solutions
The conference highlighted several key challenges for developers: rising construction costs, labor shortages, and inflation. Strategic design choices can mitigate these risks by focusing on efficiency, high-quality materials, and maximizing the guest experience. Intentional, market-responsive design remains the most effective tool to drive revenue and maintain brand relevance.
Outdoor and Wellness-Centric Experiences
Travelers are seeking more than just traditional accommodations—they want wellness, outdoor engagement, and curated lifestyle experiences. Luxury and upper-upscale properties are leading the way, but these elements are becoming relevant across all market tiers. Developers who prioritize these experiences in design can create long-term guest loyalty and profitability.
Insights for Food & Beverage Strategy
F&B offerings are evolving to cater to younger, less alcohol-focused travelers. By creating memorable, high-quality experiences—mocktails, curated menus, and interactive dining—properties can maintain profitability while meeting shifting guest expectations.
Looking Ahead
Asia and the Middle East continue to lead in global development, while luxury, ultra-luxury, and upper-upscale segments see sustained growth. Developers should remain attentive to market shifts, from room demand patterns to broader economic trends, ensuring their designs are not only beautiful but also strategically positioned to thrive.
At HBG Design, we partner with hospitality developers to create projects that combine design excellence, market insight, and operational strategy. Whether it’s a boutique lifestyle property, luxury resort, or wellness-focused destination, our approach ensures that every detail contributes to an elevated guest experience—and measurable business results.