Top Hospitality Design Firm: HBG Design #2 in 2025
At HBG Design, our passion for hospitality design continues to shape the future of resort and hotel experiences across the country. We’re thrilled to announce that Hotel Business magazine has ranked HBG Design #2 on its 2025 list of Top Architects & Designers—marking our sixth consecutive year among the top
five hospitality design firms in the nation.
This continued recognition underscores our position as a top hospitality design firm known for vision, creativity, and technical excellence. At HBG Design, our integrated architecture and interior design teams work in close collaboration to create immersive, memorable environments that resonate deeply with guests and elevate our clients’ brands.
Milestone Openings in 2025
This year marks an exciting chapter for our hospitality studio as we celebrate the completion of three signature casino resort hotel projects:
- Gun Lake Casino Resort in Wayland, Michigan – A bold expansion of this established property, the new hotel and spa experience delivers upscale comfort and signature design tailored to the Gun Lake brand.
- Golden Mesa Casino Hotel in Guymon, Oklahoma – This project introduces new overnight accommodations and hospitality offerings to an area rich in culture and gaming excitement.
- Rain Rock Casino Hotel in Yreka, California – Nestled at the base of the Siskiyou Mountains, this new hotel brings boutique luxury and elevated guest amenities to the region’s premier gaming destination.
These milestone openings showcase the creative and operational strength of our team, and reflect the level of quality that defines HBG Design’s work as a leading hospitality design firm.
A Legacy of Experience and Innovation
Over the past two decades, HBG Design has planned and designed more than 35,000 hotel and resort rooms across the United States, ranging from boutique and lifestyle hotels to large-scale integrated resort destinations. These include three-, four-, and five-star luxury properties that combine impactful design with operational insight.
Our longstanding reputation as a top hospitality architecture and interior design firm is built on our ability to create environments that are both strategically sound and emotionally engaging. We anticipate shifting traveler preferences and deliver solutions that exceed expectations for both owners and guests.
Designing What’s Next
As we look ahead, our team continues to focus on delivering bold architecture and interior design solutions that reflect a strong sense of place and story. Every project is a reflection of our commitment to innovation, collaboration, and excellence in hospitality design.
We are proud to be recognized once again as one of the top hospitality design firms in the country. Thank you to Hotel Business for this national recognition, and congratulations to our team members, clients, and creative partners who continue to drive our success forward.
The best is yet to come.
Smart Strategies for Casino Expansion in a Changing World
As Seen in Casino Design Magazine: "Nips, Tucks, Dollars, & Cents" - HBG's Strategies for Casino Expansion in Today's Changing World
In a time of record-setting gaming revenues but persistent economic headwinds, the stakes for casino resort development have never been higher. That’s why we're proud to share that HBG Design President Nathan Peak is featured as a key voice in Casino Style Magazine’s latest article, “Nips, Tucks, Dollars & Cents,” exploring how savvy operators and designers are rethinking renovation and expansion strategies in today’s unpredictable environment.
The article outlines how operators across the country—both commercial and tribal—are navigating inflation, shifting tariffs, labor challenges, and supply chain unpredictability. Nathan Peak offers insight into how HBG Design is helping clients move forward with confidence through phased development, data-driven flexibility, and proactive sourcing strategies. As Nathan notes,
“Flexibility is built into our process, but it hinges on having a strong communication chain among the owner, architect and contractor.”
With a deep portfolio of hospitality and gaming projects across the U.S., HBG Design is uniquely positioned to guide clients through capital investment decisions that balance guest experience with economic resilience. Whether it's identifying high-performing zones within a casino footprint, maximizing revenue-generating amenities, or phasing construction to match market conditions, our integrated team of architects, interior designers, and procurement experts helps clients transform challenges into opportunities.
Read the full article to learn how HBG Design is shaping the next generation of resort experiences.
Wawyé Oasis Lands the Cover of Casino Style Magazine
We’re thrilled to share that Casino Style Magazine’s Summer 2025 issue features Wawyé Oasis at Gun Lake Casino on its cover—and for good reason. As the centerpiece of the resort’s transformative $300 million expansion, Wawyé Oasis is a first-of-its-kind, indoor tropical retreat and entertainment venue designed by HBG Design to deliver a bold, immersive escape in the heart of West Michigan.
Created in close collaboration with the Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians and Gun Lake Casino leadership, the new 32,000-square-foot, glass-domed atrium is more than a pool—it’s an all-season, all-occasion destination. By day, lush greenery, radiant natural light, and sparkling pools invite guests into a serene tropical haven. By night, it morphs effortlessly into a vibrant concert venue or special event space, replete with dynamic lighting, state-of-the-art acoustics, and energy that rivals the biggest entertainment hot spots.
“When you look at the array of amenities—a hotel, a spa—some of them are natural, because we’re shooting for four-diamond status or higher,” says Gun Lake CEO Sal Semola. “The big differentiator is the Oasis.”
In the article "Deep Dive", writer Marjorie Preston explores the innovation, collaboration, and vision that brought this complex new environment to life. From the dome’s engineering marvels to the intricate planning behind its multi-functional spaces, Wawyé Oasis represents a bold new chapter in resort amenity design—one that’s turning heads, drawing visitors, and redefining what’s possible in a four-season casino resort.
Read the full story in Casino Style Magazine to see how HBG Design and Gun Lake Casino are making a splash in the world of resort entertainment.
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.