Spotlight on Ray Mabry and HBG Design Dallas

Ray Mabry, a seasoned expert in hospitality design with a rich background spanning across Dallas and international landscapes, recently joined HBG Design as the Dallas Office Leader. In a captivating discussion on the "CEO Spotlight with David Johnson" podcast on KRLD NewsRadio 1080, Mabry shared insights into his vision for HBG's Dallas office and the exciting prospects ahead.

Listen to the Spotlight Podcast Here


Mabry's decision to join HBG was influenced by the firm's alignment with his core values and design philosophy. With over two decades of experience in Dallas and a keen eye for hospitality and entertainment design, Mabry saw in HBG a perfect platform to further his expertise. The firm's commitment to creating lasting guest experiences resonated deeply with him, making the transition a natural fit.

One of the pivotal aspects of Mabry's role at HBG is to spearhead the expansion of the Dallas office. With plans to double the team size within a year, Mabry envisions cultivating a dynamic team of architects and interior designers. Drawing from the success of HBG's San Diego office, Mabry aims to establish a strong presence in Dallas while maintaining a focus on serving both national and regional clients.

HBG's recent move to the Bank of America Plaza in downtown Dallas signifies a strategic commitment to the region. The central location not only facilitates better client service but also fosters collaboration with local design communities. The vibrant urban setting of the new office reflects HBG's culture of openness and collaboration, creating an inspiring workspace for employees and clients alike.

In terms of projects, HBG's portfolio in Dallas and the surrounding region is impressive, with notable ventures like Winstar World Casino and Resort's Lucas Oil Live Event Center and the new Spa Tower. Mabry aims to build on this success by targeting premium and luxury brand hospitality projects, solidifying HBG's position as a leading design provider in the region.

Furthermore, community engagement is a key aspect of HBG's strategy in Dallas. Mabry emphasizes the importance of actively participating in local design networks and community initiatives to foster meaningful connections and contribute positively to the city's fabric.

Ray Mabry's leadership at HBG Design Dallas promises an exciting chapter in the firm's journey, marked by innovation, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences. As the Dallas office continues to grow and thrive under his guidance, the future of hospitality design in the region looks brighter than ever.


Work, Play, and Panoramic Views: HBG Design's New Downtown San Diego Office

With great anticipation and enthusiasm, HBG Design announces that our San Diego team has officially relocated to new office space within the vibrant downtown cityscape, effective March 1, 2024.

Downtown San Diego has proven to be the perfect location for our team’s growth,” says Joe Baruffaldi, HBG’s San Diego Office Leader. “This new larger downtown office space will allow us to creatively thrive as we continue to innovate the design of unique hospitality, entertainment, and mixed-use experiences, in San Diego, along the West Coast, and nationally.”

HBG Design San Diego’s new office address is:

1 Columbia Place
401 West A Street
Suite 700
San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: 619-858-7888

That View Though!

Perched on the 7th floor, our new downtown office offers panoramic vistas of the stunning San Diego Bay, the bustling San Diego International Airport, and the lush expanse of Balboa Park. Designed with collaboration in mind, our open office environment fosters seamless idea-sharing and teamwork among coworkers. Featuring expansive workspaces, high ceilings, and an open floor plan, HBG Design's San Diego office is a testament to our commitment to connectivity and creativity. Embracing our brand aesthetic, the office design seamlessly integrates features and zones that visually and physically unite employees, embodying our design-driven culture and fostering a vibrant atmosphere of innovation.

Communal Rooftop Terrace / Photo Courtesy of 1 Columbia Place

Inspired in Little Italy

1 Columbia Place is nestled in the heart of San Diego’s Little Italy, a vibrant and bustling community brimming with charm, culture, and delectable culinary delights. For a midday escape or a post-work retreat, Little Italy offers the perfect respite for HBG staff. Whether it's a leisurely lunch break at a charming sidewalk café, unwinding after a long day at the office with a stroll along the picturesque waterfront, or a visit to one of the neighborhood's many wine bars or craft breweries – Little Italy has it all!

Elevating the Workplace Experience

1 Columbia Place also boasts a host of amenities designed to enhance the professional and personal lives of our team members. From a bustling café to a serene rooftop terrace, these communal public spaces offer the perfect blend of productivity and relaxation. Our San Diego team will be able to stay active in the state-of-the-art fitness center and find moments of respite in the private outdoor spaces.

1 Columbia Place Amenities / Photo Courtesy of 1 Columbia Place
1 Columbia Place Amenities / Photo Courtesy of 1 Columbia Place

We’ve Come a Long Way in San Diego!

HBG’s San Diego office opened in 2016 on the heels of winning the commission for a multi-million-dollar resort expansion at Sycuan Casino Resort in East San Diego County. That win launched the firm’s ability to make the California dream a reality. Our core San Diego architecture and interior design leadership (the OG’s as we call them) have built HBG’s formidable presence on the West Coast. The San Diego office tripled in size during its first year of operation and has been growing ever since. This move to One Columbia Place allows us to keep up with that pace of growth.

We’re a recognized San Diego Business Journal ‘Best Place to Work’ and three of our ‘OGs’ were recently touted as San Diego ‘Leaders of Influence in Architecture and Design’. Technology allows HBG’s San Diego, Memphis, and Dallas offices to work interconnectedly to deliver project designs over the miles, and regular gatherings, community volunteering, and professional education events bring us together through camaraderie and continuous learning!


Lucas Oil Live: Excellence in Event Venue Design

Introducing Lucas Oil Live at Winstar World Casino & Resort, a world-class entertainment event venue designed by HBG Design.

Within the Dallas/North Texas resort market, this groundbreaking venue sets a new standard for live performances, blending cutting-edge design with operational efficiency to create a symphony of entertainment.

Guests step into the realm of Lucas Oil Live, where every element is meticulously crafted to amplify the energy pulsating from within. From the moment patrons set foot in the 6,500-seat amphitheater-style arena, they are enveloped in an immersive journey unlike any other. The design narrative unfolds with dynamic LED-lit concourses, guiding patrons towards the heart of the action while mirroring the rhythmic flow of music that awaits them.

Entertainment Venue Pre-function Space Design

Drawing inspiration from the rebellious spirit of rock and roll, Lucas Oil Live exudes a vibrant aesthetic that resonates with the soul of amplified music. Bold angles, colored lights, and distinctive glass elements converge to create a beacon of rock and roll rebellion, distinguishing this venue as a destination experience within the Winstar Campus.

Entertainment Venue Exterior Design

Entertainment Venue Interior Design

At the core of HBG Design's design philosophy lies a unwavering attention to detail, evident in every aspect of Lucas Oil Live. From the rebellious angles of the architecture to the streamlined customer experience at concessions, every element is carefully curated to ensure that guests can fully immerse themselves in the magic of live entertainment.

Lucas Oil Live Stage

The design team's commitment to operational excellence extends beyond the stage, with innovative solutions designed to accommodate a diverse range of events. Whether patrons are enjoying a concert, MMA boxing match, or banquet seating, the venue seamlessly adapts to meet the dynamic demands of any occasion.

Concert Venue VIP

And for those seeking the ultimate VIP experience, the Club Level and VIP area offer unrivaled views and luxurious amenities, ensuring that every aspect of the entertainment experience is indulgent and unforgettable.


HBG Design Welcomes Ray Mabry, AIA, as Dallas Office Leader

HBG Design Welcomes Ray Mabry, AIA, Industry Veteran as Dallas Office Leader and Principal for its National Hospitality Practice

HBG Design is pleased to announce that Ray Mabry, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, has joined the firm’s national hospitality practice as HBG’s new Dallas Office Leader and Principal. Ray originally hails from Abilene, Texas, and is a long time Dallas resident. His 24-year career in architecture has taken him across the country and around the world as a design leader, working for the last twenty years with HKS Architects in Dallas. Ray will serve HBG Design clients as Principal-in-Charge and Project Manager.

 

Ray is a veteran of leading complex projects in the hospitality and entertainment market sector, making him a perfect fit to lead HBG’s projects in the space,” says Nathan Peak, AIA, LEED GA, Practice Leader at HBG Design. “He is committed to leading HBG’s Dallas Office with great passion and enthusiasm as he forges new frontiers in the national hospitality and entertainment industry and helps HBG cement our footprint in the Dallas metro area professional community.”

Ray brings a wealth of design leadership and project management experience in the commercial hospitality industry for clients under most major brand flags in both urban and resort locations. His experience in the gaming sector also includes commercial gaming projects mainly in Las Vegas and Asia for various operators, and most recently MGM National Harbor. Ray has a project portfolio that spans across Europe, Asia, South America, the Middle East, and the Caribbean and has been instrumental in delivering brand hospitality designs that include the Hotel Drover in the historic Fort Worth Stockyards and both The W Hotel and Omni Hotel in Nashville, Tennessee.

As Dallas Office Leader, Ray will deepen his specialized focus on premium and luxury brand hospitality, gaming/entertainment, and conference/event venue design.

I share HBG Design's philosophy of crafting memorable experiences”, says Ray. “I take great joy in designing places where guests can unwind and escape from their daily lives, while providing the best possible experiences to my clients and their guests."


Design Thinking: Resort Experiences for the Getaway Guest

Crafting Unforgettable Getaway Experiences: HBG Design's Expertise in Casino Resort Design

Welcome to HBG Design's exclusive Guest Journeys series, where we unravel the art of designing unforgettable experiences for casino resort guests. We are shining a spotlight on the getaway guest, exploring the key elements they seek when choosing their ideal weekend escape. As experts in hospitality and entertainment projects, HBG Design brings you four key elements we consider when designing for the getaway guest.

https://youtu.be/pXOo-XgNTtk

  1. Elevated Gaming Experience:

    Eagle Mountain Casino, Porterville, California

    For guests seeking a gaming-centric resort, HBG Design emphasizes creating a vibrant, immersive casino atmosphere. From arrival to departure, our goal is to elevate excitement, energy, and imagination, leaving guests eagerly anticipating their return.

  2. Escapism in Amenities:

    Cascades Pool Complex at Winstar World Casino Resort, Thackerville, OklahomaWe understand that guests in search of a getaway crave enticing amenities. Our resorts feature immersive pool experiences, on-site concert venues, and world-class spas. In-house concert venues inject an exciting energy, providing a dynamic live entertainment component that enhances the overall resort experience.

  3. Strategic Amenity Adjacencies:

    Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, Hot Springs, AR

    HBG Design ensures that resort layouts are intuitive, facilitating easy navigation between gaming areas, accommodations, and entertainment venues. Clear wayfinding signage and well-planned amenity adjacencies ensure seamless access for all guests. We consider the flow of energy within the casino, creating distinct zones with varying atmospheres to cater to different preferences.

  4. Luxurious Accommodations:

    Four Winds South Bend Casino, Hotel and Spa - VIP Suite

    Our commitment to excellence extends to opulent and comfortable accommodations that exude luxury while providing the comforts of home. From suite-style rooms to high-end furnishings and modern amenities, we design premium experiences that resonate with our guests.

Join us in this exciting journey of creating unparalleled getaway experiences. At HBG Design, we continue to set the standard for excellence in casino resort design, ensuring each guest's escape is nothing short of extraordinary. Stay tuned for more insights and innovations as we redefine the art of hospitality and entertainment design.

 

 


A Solid Decade as a BD+C Hotel Design Powerhouse

HBG Design is honored to share that the firm has once again been ranked among the Top 5 Hotel Design firms in the Nation by Building Design + Construction Magazine’s Giants 400 Survey. This milestone marks a decade of unwavering commitment to excellence, as a Top 10 ranked hotel design giant since 2012. See the full Hotel Giants List. 

A Decade of Consistency:

For ten consecutive years, HBG Design has been a force to be reckoned with in BD+C's Hotel Architecture Firms survey. Our consistent presence in the top 10 is a testament to our ability to navigate the evolving landscape of hospitality design trends, client expectations, and industry dynamics while maintaining an unwavering commitment to innovation and quality.

Navigating Change with Precision:

Hyatt Centric and Caption by Hyatt in Downtown Memphis, Tennessee

As a BD+C Hotel Design Giant, HBG Design has not merely adapted to change; we've embraced it with precision. Our designs reflect an understanding of the dynamic nature of the industry, ensuring that each project remains not just relevant but a trailblazer in its own right.

Client Trust: The Cornerstone of Our "Design Giants" Status:

The Spa Tower at Winstar World Casino Resort Completed in 2023

At the core of our ‘Design Giants’ status is the trust and satisfaction of our clients. HBG Design’s client-centric approach, a hallmark of our success, ensures that every project is a collaborative journey, resulting in designs that not only meet but exceed expectations.

Team Synergy and Expertise:

The journey to becoming a BD+C Hotel Design Giant is a collective effort, and our talented team at HBG Design stands at the forefront. Architects, designers, and support staff collaborate seamlessly, bringing forth their expertise to craft spaces that tell unique stories and elevate the guest experience.

Looking Forward to the Next Decade:

As we celebrate a decade of excellence at the top of the BD+C Hotel Design Giant charts, HBG Design is geared up for the next chapter. Our commitment to designing experiences remains steadfast, and we look ahead to setting new standards, exploring innovative avenues, and continuing to be a giant in hotel design. 

 

 


Celebrating 9 Years of Excellence: HBG Design Named Top Workplace

We are thrilled to announce that HBG Design has once again secured its place among Memphis's Top Workplaces, marking an impressive 9-year streak of excellence! This recognition by the Commercial Appeal is a testament to our unwavering commitment to cultivating a workplace that values collaboration, innovation, and the well-being of our incredible team.

A Legacy of Workplace Excellence

For nearly a decade, HBG Design has been honored as a top workplace, a distinction that reflects the dedication and passion of our outstanding team members. This achievement is a source of immense pride for us, and it speaks volumes about the positive and inclusive culture we've worked hard to create.

Thank You to Our Amazing Team

Our success is a direct result of the hard work and talent that each team member brings to HBG Design. We extend our deepest gratitude to our exceptional employees who contribute their skills, creativity, and enthusiasm every day. Your commitment is the cornerstone of our success, and we are grateful to have such a remarkable team driving our continued growth.

Recognition from the Commercial Appeal

We are honored to receive this recognition from the Commercial Appeal, a respected source for news and insights in our community. Being listed among Memphis's Top Workplaces is not just an accolade for us—it's a celebration of the positive work environment we've collectively built.

A Commitment to Continued Excellence

As we celebrate this milestone, we are more committed than ever to maintaining a workplace that inspires, supports, and empowers our team members. Our journey doesn't end here; it's a continuous pursuit of excellence, growth, and creating a workplace where everyone feels valued.

Join Us in the Celebration

Join us in celebrating this incredible achievement! Follow our journey on social media, and stay tuned for insights into what makes HBG Design a top workplace in Memphis.

Thank you to our dedicated team, the Commercial Appeal, and our community for supporting us on this remarkable journey. Here's to many more years of success, collaboration, and a thriving workplace culture at HBG Design!

Explore the list of Memphis's Top Workplaces on the Commercial Appeal website.


Hospitality Design Giants: HBG Design Shines

Ranked among the Top 5 Hospitality Design Giants in the Nation by Building Design+Construction, HBG Design continues to soar.

With a record-breaking 552 AEC firms contributing data to BD+C's 2023 Giants 400 Report, our spot in the prestigious list showcases our unwavering commitment to excellence in the realm of hospitality design.

Over the years, we've steadily ascended the ranks of the Top 10 Hospitality Design Giants, going from #7 in 2020 to an impressive #5 in 2023. Our journey signifies our remarkable history and consistent success.

A History of Excellence

Founded in 1979, HBG Design has remained a premier hospitality design firm. Our team, comprising more than 100 professionals specializing in architecture and interior design, excels in creating exceptional hotel designs, resorts, and gaming and entertainment venues.

We've contributed to over 30,000 hotel rooms and have developed more than 35 million square feet of gaming and entertainment spaces, food and beverage establishments, hotels, conference facilities, event spaces, and retail areas in the last two decades. Our enduring influence underscores our commitment to setting industry standards in hospitality design.

Exploring Recent Projects

Our most recent work consists of a diverse array of unique hospitality design experiences, with each one showcasing our ability to seamlessly blend creativity with functionality.

  1. Winstar World Casino & Resort: The Spa Tower and Winstar Spa

Winstar World Casino & Resort - Spa Tower Lobby

Located in South-Central Oklahoma, this 16-story, 304-key Spa Tower radiates contemporary elegance and invites guests to a 230,000 square foot realm of tranquility and indulgence.

  1. Cascades Pool Complex at Winstar World Casino & Resort

Cascades Pool Complex at Winstar World Casino & Resort

Spanning over 5 ½ acres, this meticulously designed pool complex offers a variety of pools, private cabanas, and amenities for relaxation and entertainment.

  1. Four Winds South Bend Casino, Hotel and Spa

Four Winds South Bend Casino, Hotel and Spa

This 23-story glass hotel stands as a testament to the Pokagon Tribe's rich heritage. The 317-key hotel, 82-suite hotel, Cedar Spa, and conference and events expansion celebrate culture and the natural elements of native lands.

  1. Caption by Hyatt Beale Street

Caption by Hyatt Beale Street

Designed in Memphis, Tennessee, this upscale Caption by Hyatt hotel offers a dynamic hospitality experience with a neighborhood feel, reflecting the spirit of the community.

Our consistent presence on the Building Design+Construction Giants 400 list is not just a reflection of our past success but a promise of what lies ahead. Our commitment to delivering excellence in hospitality design remains unwavering.


Chris Wood Named an Emerging Leader of Gaming 40 Under 40

Chris Wood, a lead interior designer and key member of HBG Design, has been honored as an Emerging Leader of Gaming in the prestigious 40 Under 40 program. Organized by The Innovation Group and Global Gaming Business magazine, this recognition celebrates outstanding professionals under the age of 40 who have already left a significant mark on the casino gaming sector. Chris Wood's contributions and leadership exemplify the innovation and excellence driving the industry forward, making him a deserving recipient of this esteemed distinction. Click here to see the full list of nominees. 

2024 EMERGING LEADERS OF GAMING 40 UNDER 40 ANNOUNCED

LAS VEGAS – The Innovation Group, organizers of the Emerging Leaders of Gaming (ELG) program, and Global Gaming Business magazine (GGB) have announced the honorees of the Emerging Leaders of Gaming 40 Under 40, a program that recognizes professionals under the age of 40 already making significant impacts in the casino gaming industry.

The honorees were selected from a record-breaking number of nominations solicited from the broader gaming industry, and reviewed by an esteemed selection committee, including: Justin Carter, Senior Vice President, Regional Operations, PENN Entertainment; Kirsten Clark, Executive Director, International Association of Gaming Advisors (IAGA); Alex Dixon, President & CEO, Q Casino and DRA; Daron Dorsey, Executive Director, Association of Gaming Equipment Manufacturers (AGEM); Alan Feldman, Distinguished Fellow in Responsible Gaming, International Gaming Institute at UNLV; Kelly Hatch, Executive Director, Global Gaming Women (GGW); and Sheila Morago, COO and Partner, Trilogy Group.

From professionals across commercial and tribal operations, to supplier-side innovators and professionals driving new industry segments, the latest class of honorees reflects a diverse cross-section of gaming and an industry in evolution. “It’s an honor to help identify and showcase the remarkable individuals driving our industry into the future,” said Michael Soll, president of The Innovation Group. "The gaming industry will prosper and thrive because of the impact of young and talented people," continued Roger Gros, publisher of Global Gaming Business magazine, "The innovation and creativity they bring with them is truly the lifeblood of gaming. Our congratulations to all the honorees."

 

 

 


Alexandra Milkovich Named a 2023 Influencer of Architecture & Design

Our warmest congratulations go out to Alexandra Milkovich, IIDA, NCIDQ, an Associate and Senior Interior Designer at HBG Design San Diego, for her recent recognition as a 2023 Influencer of Architecture and Design by the San Diego Business Journal!

 

Alexandra Milkovich, IIDA, NCIDQ, is Associate / Senior Interior Designer at HBG Design. An award-winning hospitality and entertainment industry market leader and an enthusiastic member of San Diego’s design community, Alexandra was a 2022 ‘40 Under 40’ Emerging Leader of Gaming and served on the 2023 SpArc thought leader roundtable. Over her 14+ year career, she has crafted an impressive project portfolio, including Sycuan Casino Resort, Caesars Entertainment, and the Premier Rock & Brews Casino and restaurant.

SDBJ-Leaders-of-Influence-in-Architecture-Design-2023

Spotlight on Alexandra Milkovich: A Rising Star in Interior Design

A Passionate Design Enthusiast

SDBJ InfluencerAlexandra Milkovich is not only a talented designer but also a passionate member of San Diego's design community. She's actively engaged in thought leadership, serving on SpArc Interiors' industry roundtable in 2023 and contributing her expertise to the Southern California Chapter of the International Interior Design Association (IIDA).

A Rising Star in Hospitality and Entertainment Design

ELG Top 40 U 40Alexandra's impressive journey includes being named a '40 Under 40' Emerging Leader of Gaming in 2022 by Global Gaming Business magazine. Her influence extends to high-profile casino and hotel projects, as well as unique food and beverage venues both locally and nationally. Alexandra's dedication to understanding restaurant operations and product design through food blogging sets her apart in the industry.

Designing Experiences Worth Remembering

 

Eagle Mountain Casino

One of Alexandra's standout accomplishments was leading the interior design of the $226 million transformation of Sycuan Casino Resort in El Cajon, CA, where she brought four-diamond resort elegance to life. Her creativity also shines through at venues like Rank + File, a vintage-industrial craft brew house. Alexandra's expertise has not only elevated gaming establishments but also shaped the brand concepts for the premiere Rock & Brews Casino, Caesars Entertainment properties, and Eagle Mountain Casino, where she integrated cultural elements to create unique and targeted spaces.

Service Beyond Design

Alexandra's commitment extends beyond her design work. She's a sought-after expert, having served on the Practicum Item Writing Committee of the Council for Interior Design Qualification (CIDQ), where she played a pivotal role in shaping the NCIDQ Practicum Exam. She's also been actively involved with the International Interior Design Association (IIDA) in both the Southern California and Dallas Chapters, earning recognition for her groundbreaking designs.

Alexandra’s dedication to her craft, commitment to thought leadership, and impressive portfolio make her a well-deserving recipient of the 2023 Influencer of Architecture and Design award from the San Diego Business Journal!