Art. Atmosphere. Action. HBG Design Reimagines the Legendary Atlantis Casino
HBG Design is honored to be featured in the latest issue of Casino Style Magazine for our transformative design work at the iconic Atlantis Casino on Paradise Island, Bahamas.
In the feature article, “Bold Redesign Fuses Art, Atmosphere and Gaming Action,” HBG Design Principal and Interior Design Leader Emily Marshall shares how our team reimagined one of the world’s most legendary resort casinos into an immersive, energy-rich environment that seamlessly fuses Bahamian culture, contemporary art, and dynamic guest engagement.
The renovation celebrates and elevates Atlantis’ artistic legacy—including its world-renowned Dale Chihuly sculptures—through a vibrant design that re-centers art as a core component of the guest experience. Every touchpoint within the re-envisioned casino floor, from custom-designed carpet patterns to sculptural lighting and upgraded F&B venues, has been carefully choreographed to enhance movement, energy, and sensory connection.
Highlights of the redesign include:
- The Moon and The Sun Chihuly masterpieces, re-lit and re-staged to create immersive focal points.
- A refreshed and expanded Moon Bar and the all-new Bar Sol, blending live entertainment, Bahamian influence, and design-forward social energy.
- A casino floor layout and ceiling transformation that encourages guest exploration and elevates sightlines throughout.
- A palette of rich, jewel-toned hues and textures that reflect the light and rhythm of the sea.
As Marshall explains, “We approached the entire casino environment as a continuous experience... ensuring that whether guests are gaming, dining, or relaxing, they’re always part of the energy.”
This bold redesign is more than a renovation—it’s a reinvigoration of an iconic brand through HBG Design’s deeply strategic and emotionally resonant approach to hospitality and entertainment environments.
👉 Read the full article: “Bold Redesign Fuses Art, Atmosphere and Gaming Action” on Casino Style Magazine
As Seen in Casino Style: Live! Casino Louisiana
HBG Design is proud to share the latest Casino Style Magazine feature highlighting Live! Casino Louisiana—a transformative new land-based casino in Bossier City that’s redefining the regional gaming experience in North Louisiana.
Developed by The Cordish Companies and designed by HBG Design in collaboration with architect-of-record KdG, a Shive-Hattery company, Live! Casino Louisiana rises from the shell of the former Diamond Jacks property with a fresh identity rooted in bold vision and local energy. The design—led by HBG Principal Paul Bell, AIA—draws direct inspiration from the dynamic flow of the nearby Red River, informing a guest experience that is both visually fluid and emotionally vibrant.
From the moment guests arrive, they are immersed in a high-energy, art-forward environment, beginning with a show-stopping LED media ribbon that flows from the porte-cochere through the casino’s entry sequence—creating a signature Instagrammable moment that sets the tone for what’s inside.
Inside, every detail—from the vibrant, curving casino floor to the whirlpool-inspired Center Bar and the luxury of the High Limit area—is designed to evoke motion, discovery, and elevated entertainment. This project exemplifies HBG Design’s ability to create contextually inspired, guest-centric experiences that not only transform properties—but elevate their market impact.
Read more in Casino Style Magazine’s June 2025 issue to see how Live! Casino Louisiana is sparking a new era of gaming in the South—with a signature look and feel that only HBG Design can deliver.
👉 Read the full article: “Red River Energy” at Casino Style Magazine
The Next Generation of Regional Resorts
As guest expectations rise and competition for discretionary spend intensifies, today’s regional casino resorts are boldly stepping into a new league—transforming into destination-worthy experiences that rival the best of Las Vegas. In the newly published Casino Style Magazine article, “Super-Regional Momentum,” HBG Design’s thought leader Nathan Peak explore how next-level design strategy is propelling this powerful shift across the gaming and hospitality industry.
With insight drawn from decades of experience, President Nathan Peak shares how HBG Design is helping operators craft resort environments that do far more than house gaming—they create immersive, flexible experiences that attract guests from hundreds of miles away. These are not just expansions or renovations—they are bold reimaginings of what it means to engage, entertain, and elevate the guest journey.
From high-impact, multi-use amenities like the Wawyé Oasis at Gun Lake Casino to the strategic layering of entertainment, wellness, and culinary design, HBG Design is leading the charge in shaping the super-regional resort model—one defined by purpose, placemaking, and performance.
As Dike Bacon, VP of Development for Fremont-Wright notes, “These amenities aren’t just program elements—they’re destination-makers.” And in today’s fast-evolving resort landscape, that distinction matters more than ever.
Whether you’re planning phased growth, repositioning your market presence, or envisioning a signature new guest experience, this article offers valuable perspective on the design-led strategies that are redefining success for operators across the country.
Read the full feature in Casino Style Magazine
A Magical Memphis Evening: BBQ, Breezes & Big Cheers at HBGathers+
What happens when you combine a perfect summer evening, savory barbecue, and the smooth, soulful sounds of Nashville’s own Saaneah? You get HBGathers+ Memphis—an
unforgettable night under the stars that brought our team together in the heart of the city we love.
Held at the iconic Overton Park Shell, this year’s annual HBGathers+ event was all about celebrating connection, community, and the people who make HBG Design such a vibrant place to work. With golden sunlight fading into a warm dusk, team members and their families gathered on the venue’s elevated decks, enjoying cool breezes through the oaks and unbeatable views of the stage and each other.
From the first bite of mouthwatering BBQ to the last note of Saaneah’s effortlessly cool performance, the atmosphere was nothing short of electric—easy conversation, genuine laughter, and the kind of camaraderie that comes from years of shared creativity and collaboration.
At HBG Design, we believe in making space to celebrate each other—and HBGathers is how we do just that. Every year, each of our
office locations hosts their own HBGathers event at a fun, local destination. These gatherings are a time for our teams to connect outside the studio, enjoy great food and entertainment, and just have fun together. It’s one of our favorite traditions, and a reminder that our culture is built just as much on personal connection as it is on professional collaboration.
Events like HBGathers+ are more than just a fun night out. They’re a reflection of who we are: a team that values connection, celebrates our people, and thrives on creating memorable experiences—both in our designs and in our shared moments together.
And the celebration doesn’t stop here—HBGathers events are happening in our San Diego and Dallas offices too. Stay tuned for more highlights!
Here’s to more magical nights like this one.
From Trends to Takeaways: HBG Interior Designers Reflect on HD Expo 2025
Every spring, the Hospitality Design Expo in Las Vegas sets the stage for what’s next in the world of hospitality interiors. For HBG Design’s Interior Design team—recognized leaders in resort, casino, and entertainment design—HD Expo is more than just a tradeshow. It’s a dynamic opportunity to engage with emerging trends, discover innovative products, and strengthen connections that drive our work forward.
This year, Senior Interior Designer / Senior Associate Alexandra Milkovich, NCIDQ, IIDA, and Junior Interior Designer, Maddie Cognasso, walked the floor with an eye toward what will shape the next generation of unforgettable guest experiences. Here’s what stood out to them—and why it matters for our clients.
“HD reminds me how vital it is to stay current with trends,” says Maddie. “Our clients trust us to craft experiences that attract guests. Knowing what’s new and exciting helps us keep venues fresh, relevant, and tailored.”
Tactile, Textural, and Transportive: Top Design Trends
Across the show floor, trends pointed toward texture, tactility, and transportive aesthetics—key ingredients in storytelling design.
Fluted surfaces, 3D wallcoverings, and ribbed tiles emerged as dominant styles, offering dimension and drama.
Outdoor furniture—especially woven, corded, and rattan styles—was front and center, reflecting the growing demand for integrated indoor/outdoor experiences.
Warm, earthy materials like Saltillo tile, terracotta, and basket-woven finishes offered nods to tradition and craft.
Color palettes were bold and comforting: emerald green and blush pink maintained their presence, while navy and golden ochre brought richness and depth to FF&E and finishes.
“These finishes are more than just aesthetic—they’re cultural storytelling tools,” Alexandra notes. “Textiles and textures inspired by basket weaving or natural fibers can connect directly to the heritage and identity of many of our tribal clients.”
Products That Popped: Custom, Crafted, and Statement-Making
Both designers were drawn to custom furniture and textiles that add personality and polish to hospitality environments:
Loloey Carpets, with painterly patterning and color blends, stood out as a compelling flooring option—especially for clients who draw inspiration from natural environments or water symbolism.
Couristan’s subtle metallic fibers in carpet added depth and luxe detail, ideal for designated high-impact areas.
TileBar’s waterjet marble mosaics caught Maddie’s eye for their artistry and scale—perfect for venues that need “a piece of art” integrated into functional surfaces.
The Tuuci Ombre Blossom umbrella brought whimsy and wow factor to outdoor spaces—something Alexandra is eager to propose for the right client and setting.
Design with Purpose: Supporting Wellness, Engagement, and Revenue
From multi-generational travel reshaping hotel programming to "big impact on smaller budgets" guiding material selections, industry discussions continue to echo many of the design principles that HBG is already championing in our work.
Our team noted the buzz around:
- AI in design—not to replace, but to enhance creative output
- Continued emphasis on wellness-focused design
- Movement toward emerging hospitality markets beyond major metros
These insights reinforce our approach: creating meaningful spaces that are responsive to guest behavior, driven by experience, and attuned to each client’s story and market goals.
Design that Resonates: Turning Trends into Experiences
Ultimately, the HD Expo affirmed something our team experiences daily: that great hospitality design is rooted in understanding both people and place.
From rattan lounge chairs and fluted tiles to culturally resonant color palettes and material finishes, today’s trends offer tools to help our clients connect with guests in more personal, lasting ways.
“Seeing applied materials and products to scale was huge,” says Maddie. “It reminds me how important it is to think not just about design concepts—but how they’ll actually be felt and experienced by the people who use them.”
Want to bring these insights into your next project?
Let’s talk. HBG Design is helping resort and hospitality clients elevate their guest experience with strategies rooted in trend awareness, cultural storytelling, and bold design thinking.
HBG Design Takes on the Form Follows Fitness 5K in Dallas!
On a crisp and misty Saturday morning, team members from HBG Design’s Dallas office laced up their running shoes and joined thousands of architecture and design professionals for the Form Follows Fitness 5K—Dallas’ premier race celebrating the city’s rich architectural landscape. 
Designing Connections Through Community and Fitness
This unique event, presented by Blackson Brick and benefiting The Architecture and Design Exchange (AD EX), winds through some of Dallas’ most architecturally significant neighborhoods, including Uptown, the Arts District, and the West End. The race raises funds to support scholarships, fellowships, and professional development grants for aspiring architects and designers, as well as K-12 educational programs that inspire future generations in the field.
Representing HBG Design at the event were Ray, Omnia, Diane, Maria, and Michael from our Dallas office, along with Morgan from Memphis, who made the trip to participate! What started as a simple fitness goal between coworkers soon grew into a team-wide initiative, leading HBG to sponsor both a race team and a booth at the event.
Race Day Highlights
From pre-race networking to crossing the finish line, the day was filled with team spirit, industry connections, and celebration. The team enjoyed hosting a booth, engaging with race participants, connecting with industry peers, and showcasing HBG’s presence in the Dallas design community.
Looking Ahead
Participating in the Form Follows Fitness 5K was a fantastic way to strengthen our team culture, promote wellness, and engage with the local design community in a meaningful way. A huge thank-you to everyone who participated and made this event a success!
Way to go, Team HBG!
🚀 Interested in being part of a firm that values community, design, and collaboration? Check out career opportunities with HBG Design!
Nathan Peak Named to GGB’s 25 People to Watch in 2025
HBG Design’s President Honored for Shaping the Future of Gaming and Entertainment Design
At HBG Design, we’re thrilled to celebrate our President, Nathan Peak, AIA, LEED GA, for being featured in Global Gaming Business (GGB) Magazine’s prestigious "25 People to Watch in 2025" list. This annual recognition highlights individuals who are shaping the future of the gaming industry through innovation, leadership, and impactful contributions.
Nathan’s journey at HBG Design exemplifies dedication and growth. Starting with two internships in the late 1990s and early 2000s, he has spent the past 23 years shaping our firm and the broader gaming and entertainment design landscape. Since becoming President in 2022, Nathan has guided HBG Design through a transformative period of strategic growth and regional expansion.
Driving Growth and Innovation
Under Nathan’s leadership, HBG Design has doubled the size of its San Diego office and solidified its presence in Dallas with the appointment of a new location leader, Ray Mabry. These expansions are part of a cohesive strategy to enhance client service and project execution across the Midwest and West Coast—regions that account for the majority of the firm’s client base.
Nathan is also spearheading efforts to expand HBG’s capabilities, ensuring the firm delivers exceptional quality on projects of all scales. This includes creative approaches to design and construction, such as cost-effective framing methods that maximize client ROI while maintaining a premium guest experience.
Beyond project delivery, HBG Design is investing in master planning and land-use planning services, positioning the firm to provide value at the earliest stages of project development. From environmental impact studies to visioning long-term investment opportunities, Nathan and his team are focused on helping clients realize their goals from the ground up.
A Vision for 2025 and Beyond
Looking to the year ahead, Nathan is particularly excited about HBG Design’s involvement in landmark projects like the Gun Lake Casino expansion in Michigan. The centerpiece of this project, the Wawyé Oasis, exemplifies innovation, transforming from a resort pool by day to a performance complex by night within a six-story glass-enclosed structure. 
Nathan also recognizes the importance of evolving gaming floor designs to enhance customer experiences. His vision incorporates streamlined layouts for improved flow and wayfinding, while integrating sportsbooks with other entertainment amenities—a trend that blurs traditional boundaries and creates immersive environments.
Recognizing Leadership in Gaming Design
Nathan’s inclusion in GGB’s "25 People to Watch in 2025" underscores his significant contributions to gaming and entertainment design and his forward-thinking leadership at HBG Design.
As Roger Gros, GGB Publisher, notes, “As usual, our 25 People to Watch reflect the best the industry has to offer. Every one of our choices [this year] has made an impact on the industry already, and we feel the sky’s the limit to what they’ll achieve next.”
For more updates on Nathan Peak and HBG Design’s innovative projects, follow us on social media or explore our website.
Hospitality Design Trends for 2025
HBG Design Thinking: From Sustainable Innovations to Immersive Guest Experiences
As the hospitality industry gears up for 2025, the landscape continues to shift in response to economic, cultural, and technological forces. Insights from recent conferences such as The Lodging Conference, BDNY, and HD Expo provide a roadmap for what’s next in hospitality design. From sustainable innovations to immersive guest experiences, the trends shaping the future align closely with HBG Design’s mission to craft inspired and transformative spaces. HBG leaders Nathan Peak, Emily Marshall, Alexandra Milkovich and Landon Shockey weigh in on the trends.
Here’s what to expect in 2025 and how these trends will impact hospitality projects.
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Sustainability as a Core Value
HD Expo 2024 Show Floor
Sustainability is no longer optional—it’s integral to the guest experience and the development process. Hotels are weaving sustainable practices into their brand narratives, using them as a competitive advantage.
Key Takeaways:
- Material Choices: Expect an emphasis on eco-friendly materials, such as rattan, rich wood tones, and recycled metals.
- Operational Practices: Digital keys, water refill stations, and large-format amenities reduce waste and align with consumer expectations.
- Circular Design: Designers are scrutinizing supply chains to reduce carbon footprints, inspired by innovations like Styrofoam-free casegoods and eco-conscious packaging.
"HBG Design’s approach prioritizes solutions that enhance both operational efficiency and environmental stewardship – focusing on product longevity and sustainably made products, creating spaces that resonate with eco-conscious travelers," says Nathan Peak, AIA, LEED GA, HBG Principal and Practice Leader.
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Wellness and Well-Being Take Center Stage
The wellness economy continues to flourish, influencing everything from luxury spa design to guestroom amenities.
"Wellness isn’t just a trend—it’s a fundamental expectation for guests," says HBG Sr. Interior Designer, Landon Shockey, ASID, NCIDQ.
Key Takeaways:
- Holistic Offerings: Wellness extends beyond spas. Guests seek spaces that nourish mind and body, from sound baths to in-room wellness features like sleep-enhancing technologies.
- Luxury Wellness: Hotels like Six Senses are redefining luxury by integrating sleep science, spiritual well-being, and sustainable design into the guest journey.
- Flexible Programming: Spaces designed for multi-use programming—yoga classes by day and stargazing at night—offer unique experiences while maximizing ROI.
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Technology: Enhancing, Not Replacing, the Human Touch
Guest rooms and suites at Oaklawn Resort, Hot Springs, feature in-room tablets as digital concierges, offering seamless access to dining, promotions, events, and more.
"As artificial intelligence and automation advance, successful hospitality design will balance technology with human-centered experiences" explains Emily Marshall, IIDA, NCIDQ, HBG Principal / Interior Design Leader.
Key Takeaways:
- AI-Powered Guest Experiences: From personalized room preferences to virtual concierge services, AI adds convenience while preserving the essence of hospitality.
- Connected Spaces: Smart room technology enhances intuitive design, providing guests with seamless control over lighting, climate, and entertainment.
- Community Connection: Digital platforms are enabling guests to engage with one another, enhancing the sense of belonging and discovery.
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Elevated Design: Nostalgia Meets Modern Luxury
Design trends are leaning into warm palettes, nostalgic textures, and tactile materials, creating spaces that feel both luxurious and welcoming.
Key Takeaways:
- Color Trends: Deep plums, cranberry reds, olive greens, and butterscotch tones evoke a cozy, grounded atmosphere.
- Biophilia and Texture: Rich biophilic elements and layered textures add visual and sensory depth.
- Experiential Elements: Thoughtful design moments—like curated art installations or locally inspired storytelling—leave lasting impressions on guests.
"HBG Design excels at blending these elements into cohesive narratives that connect deeply with guests and reflect the property’s location and brand identity," offers Alexandra Milkovich, IIDA, NCIDQ, HBG Sr. Associate / Sr. Interior Designer.
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The Rise of Lifestyle and Extended-Stay Models
The Hadsten Solvang, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, blends a “vineyard vibe” with vintage Danish charm, the design reflects the rich heritage of Solvang and the allure of its wine-country surroundings.
"Increased demand for lifestyle boutique hotels and extended-stay options is reshaping the market, driven by the need for flexible, experience-rich accommodations," adds Marshall.
Key Takeaways:
- Lifestyle Hotels: Brands like Moxy and Virgin focus on curated experiences, from local art displays to intimate dining.
- Extended Stay: Accommodations catering to 30-, 60-, or 90-day stays provide opportunities for innovative design that bridges home and hospitality.
- Personalization: These models emphasize creating environments that feel unique and personal, offering a sense of discovery with every stay.
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Storytelling: Creating Emotional Connections
Milkovich adds: "The art of storytelling is redefining hospitality. Guests crave narratives that shape every aspect of their journey, from booking to departure."
Key Takeaways:
- Unique Branding: Fictional personas or cultural references—create memorable, cohesive brand stories.
- Local Integration: Leveraging neighborhood influences, such as street art or regional culinary themes, creates authentic connections.
- Consistent Messaging: Every touchpoint, from architecture to amenities, must reinforce the story and immerse guests in the experience.
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Looking Ahead: Opportunities for 2025
"The year ahead promises growth, innovation, and creativity in hospitality design," says Peak. "HBG Design remains committed to staying at the forefront of these trends, helping clients achieve their vision while crafting spaces that inspire and endure."
By combining sustainable practices, cutting-edge technology, and emotionally resonant storytelling, HBG is creating destinations that not only meet guest expectations but exceed them—ensuring properties thrive in an ever-evolving market.
Let’s start the conversation about how these trends can elevate your next project. Reach out to our team at HBG Design to explore the possibilities.
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.