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
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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.
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Escapism in Amenities:
We 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. -
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.
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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.
We 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.
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:
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:
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.
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.
Spanning over 5 ½ acres, this meticulously designed pool complex offers a variety of pools, private cabanas, and amenities for relaxation and entertainment.
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.
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.
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.
Spotlight on Alexandra Milkovich: A Rising Star in Interior Design
A Passionate Design Enthusiast
Alexandra 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
Alexandra'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
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!
Creating Physical Connections: Sylvamo Global Headquarters
Sylvamo, a top global paper company employing more than 6,500 people worldwide, is focused on creating connections that only paper can foster. The company’s new global headquarters in Memphis, Tennessee, is designed to reflect its commitment to providing its employees with a balance of collaboration and privacy, a space with a strong sense of branding and cultural identity.
The clean, modern office design features a neutral color palette that allows the treescape views to shine as a major player in the design story.
Muted tones of Sylvamo’s signature purple brand color highlight key spaces. A large custom painting in the lobby features an abstract design that flows well with the connection to nature and the contemporary brand. The Sylvamo Global Headquarters regularly hosts international staff and visitors, and the office’s boardroom is equipped with an elegant white marble table and privacy measures for business meetings, including electronic frosted glass interior walls that can be clear or opaque depending on the level of privacy necessitated.
Light-Filled Work Spaces
A repeating baffled ceiling element runs from the entry lobby through office wayfinding paths and collaboration spaces to symbolize forward motion while echoing Sylvamo’s logo design.
A hint of industrial inspiration is provided from the open mechanical ceiling plane that serves to elevate the office height for an open feel.
Every Memphis-based employee has a universally sized workstation or semi-private office with adjustable height desks, and access to multiple open and closed collaboration spaces throughout the workplace.
Workstations are located along the exterior floor to ceiling window walls allowing light to permeate through the main spaces into the internal glass fronted offices at the nucleus.
In-Person Collaboration
Situated in an existing Class B office building, the office floor plan enables various open and closed workspace and collaboration zones for employees and leadership who work on hybrid office schedules.
Formal and Informal Break-Out Spaces
Because most employees work on hybrid schedules, the office space is designed to be highly collaborative with numerous styles of formal and informal break-out brainstorming and meeting spaces.
Each of the Sylvamo Global Headquarters' three floors contain a Work Cafe that honors the Memphis location, named Soulsville, Beale, and Graceland, respectively. These café hubs serve as central, informal gathering areas, providing counter seating and dining table seating, and can be opened to collaboration areas to accommodate events. These floating kitchenettes are located at the angular building’s end point and their geometric configurations help maximize space and flexibility during events.
‘Sip and Print’ stations are the office’s printer kitchenette break out spaces. Each ‘Sip and Print’ is centrally located for ease of access and wayfinding for guests.
Unveiling a Tranquil Oasis: WinStar's Spa Tower
Nestled amidst the allure of undulating hills, rolling waters, and the natural setting of South-Central Oklahoma, the captivating new 16-story, 304-key Spa Tower at WinStar World Casino and Resort emerges as a haven of respite and escape.
Merging contemporary elegance with upscale appeal, this boutique-style hotel tower extends an irresistible invitation to guests, transporting them to a 230,000 square foot realm of unrivaled tranquility and indulgence that pays homage to the region’s beauty through its design.
Site Design Inspiration
Drawing inspiration from the breathtaking scenery of the Red River, at the border between Oklahoma and Texas, natural hues and contemporary style converge in the lobby, flowing seamlessly throughout the public spaces.
Throughout the tower, warm wood tones, sleek stone, and metallic accents create a feast for the senses. Stepping into the lobby, the layered composition of different materials and textures adds visual depth and dimension, inviting guests to explore and engage with the designed experience. Axminster carpet ion the lobby features an abstract design of the site’s topography.
As guests venture beyond the lobby, they discover a sanctuary of comfort and relaxation within the guestrooms and suites. Guest rooms draw their inspiration from the rolling plans in display outside the tower’s windows.
Incorporating the latest in immersive spa and wellness trends, the WinStar Spa is a hallmark of modern leisure design. The two-level spa features communal aquathermal bathing and touchless technology, with a size and scale designed to attract customers from nearby Dallas/Ft. Worth and Oklahoma City urban markets. Continuing the fluid aesthetic of the Spa Tower, the WinStar Spa’s design is regional and contemporary, reflecting the texture and form of the local geography in its carpet pattern and overall materiality.
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AIA TN Conference 2023: Our Top 5 Moments
1. Excellence Shines at the AIA TN Conference: Showcasing HBG Design's Impact
The recent AIA TN Conference held in our hometown of Memphis was not just an event; it was a testament to the indelible mark that HBG Design continues to leave in our local design community. As the conference unfolded at the Hyatt Centric Beale Street – designed by HBG Design – the resonance of our team's commitment to innovation, diversity, and professional growth reverberated throughout the event.
2. Nurturing Emerging Professionals: A Prestigious Acknowledgment
HBG Design was honored to be recognized as an Emerging Professionals Friendly Firm at the conference. This prestigious award underscores our dedication to creating nurturing environments that foster the growth and development of emerging talents within our industry. As firm believers in the power of mentorship and professional development, we are humbled to receive this recognition.
3. Diverse Voices Resound: Carmen Fluellen Jr. & Jeanne Myers Featured in 'Say it Loud' Exhibition
The "Say it Loud" exhibition celebrates the invaluable contributions of diverse designers, architects, engineers, and planners, amplifying their voices and experiences within the architecture and design fields. HBG Design team members Carmen Fluellen and Jeanne Myers were featured in this year's exhibition.
Carmen Fluellen
Carmen Fluellen's contributions have been pivotal in the development of notable projects such as the new 23-story, 317-room Four Winds South Bend Casino Resort in South Bend, Indiana, and the impressive $44.5 million, 155,600 SF Hyatt Centric in Memphis, Tennessee. His expertise was also key in the master planning of the proposed 85-acre, multi-building BLP Film Studios complex in the Whitehaven area of Memphis, Tennessee. This ambitious project is set to become the second largest African American-owned film studio in the U.S.
Carmen's commitment to excellence extends beyond the project site, as seen through his involvement with the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) Memphis Chapter and his leadership in our Emerging Professionals Studio (EPS) program.
Jeanne Myers
Jeanne's dedication to architecture and design is paralleled by her deep involvement with AIA Tennessee. Serving as the current AIA Tennessee Treasurer since 2020, Jeanne's leadership has played a pivotal role in the organization's success. Her commitment extends to the AIA TN Conference on Architecture Committee, where her innovative ideas have led to the creation of meaningful engagement opportunities for fellow professionals.
An embodiment of mentorship and support, Jeanne champions the achievements of emerging professionals through her leadership in the Newly Licensed Award since 2013. Jeanne's dedication to supporting the growth of young professionals and her commitment to fostering a sense of belonging within the architectural community are truly inspiring. Jeanne's journey also extends beyond her professional involvement to her feature in the "Say it Loud" exhibition.
4. Celebrating Achievement: Ryan Callahan's Architectural License
HBG Design's Ryan Callahan was recognized at this year's conference for achieving his architectural license. The architectural license is not merely a piece of paper; it represents years of hard work, continuous learning, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. It embodies a profound understanding of the built environment and the impact that architecture has on shaping communities and enhancing lives. The HBG Design Emerging Professionals Studio thrives on mentorship, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas, and Ryan’s success is a reflection of these principles in action.
5. Embodied Excellence: The Guest House at Graceland Tour
As the conference unfolded, attendees were offered a unique opportunity to delve into one of HBG Design's remarkable Memphis projects – The Guest House at Graceland. This tour showcased the marriage of design innovation and cultural resonance that defines our work. The Guest House at Graceland exemplifies our commitment to crafting transformative design experiences.
Embark on a New Era of Resort Amenities: Introducing the Cascades Pool Complex
WinStar World Casino & Resort Redefines Luxury and Entertainment with a Transformative Outdoor Oasis
The Cascades pool complex, the newest casino amenity at WinStar World Casino and Resort in Thackerville, Oklahoma, emerges as an expansive outdoor retreat for relaxation and entertainment.
Spanning over 5 ½ acres, this meticulously designed pool experience encompasses a series of six exquisite pools, varying types of private cabanas, and seven distinct buildings accommodating bars and lounges, food and beverage and guest services, and retail. Every amenity has been thoughtfully positioned to maximize sunlight and water access and lounging, while offering ample shaded space for social interaction.
Site Design Inspiration
Inspired by the mesmerizing forms of ocean currents and naturally shaped archipelagos, the design of the Cascades pool complex is formed by organic, curvilinear shapes that adjoin to provide intimate lounge and cabana spaces in between. The graceful lines and grotto-like edges of the pools create a sense of harmony and serenity, while white cast stone edging and white and gray integral colored concrete surfaces with a textured salt rock finish offer cool and durable surfaces to help ensure guest comfort and enjoyment. Set within lush landscaping and winding pathways, a multi-level site design creates zones of personalization and exclusivity, whereby the ground level pool experience is maintained for families, and mid-tier and upper tier experiences are reserved for ages 21+ and for VIP guests.
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