GOH Travel Scholarship 2025 Winner: Paul Patterson
HBG Design is proud to celebrate the presentation of our 9th GOH Travel Scholarship Award, honoring one of our founding partners, Greg Hnedak. This annual legacy award embodies Greg’s passion for immersive learning and transformative travel experiences, providing a unique opportunity for our staff to connect with new cultures, discover inspiring places, and explore the roots of design in meaningful ways.
This year, we are thrilled to announce Paul Patterson as the GOH Travel Scholarship 2025 winner. Paul’s concept for his journeys pushes the boundaries of the scholarship, presenting the idea of contrast in ways our jury had never seen before. His proposal exemplifies how design connects the familiar and the unfamiliar, inspiring creativity through juxtaposition.
Paul’s travels will take him on two transformative, week-long journeys to countries with similar cultures, design sensibilities, and awe-inspiring natural beauty – Iceland in the darkness of winter and Norway in the endless light of summer. This unique itinerary stretches the GOH Travel Scholarship’s purpose, exploring extreme contrasts in season, light, and environment to deepen our understanding of unity, adversity, and inspiration.
Experiencing Iceland in Winter’s Darkness
Paul’s first journey will lead him to Reykjavik, Iceland, a place where winter's darkness envelops urban life and natural wonders alike. His exploration will include:
- Visits to art and history museums showcasing Icelandic culture and traditions.
- Architectural studies of modern public and religious buildings.
- An immersive journey through the Golden Circle, a 190-mile route that highlights Iceland’s rugged landscapes, powerful waterfalls, geysers, and volcanic terrain.
- A hopeful glimpse of the Northern Lights, a natural spectacle that transforms the darkness into magic.
Paul’s focus on the stark beauty of Iceland’s harsh winter will uncover how design responds to extreme conditions, creating spaces of comfort amid adversity.
Experiencing Norway in the Light of Endless Summer
In stark contrast, Paul’s second journey will take him to Norway at the height of summer, where the midnight sun stretches the days into near-perpetual light. His itinerary includes:
- Visits to Oslo’s cultural hubs, exploring museums and contemporary Scandinavian architecture.
- Studie
Paul received his award at HBG's annual end of the year presentation. s of ancient stave churches, standing as historical counterpoints to modern design.
- Exploration of Norway’s breathtaking fjords, remote towns, and natural wonders through hiking and kayaking.
- Insights into how endless daylight influences urban living, culture, and the human experience.
Paul’s experience in Norway will showcase how light shapes life and design, revealing both similarities and profound contrasts to his time in Iceland.
Paul’s Vision for the GOH Travel Scholarship
In his own words, Paul expressed how this journey represents the ultimate contrast:
“The juxtaposition of seasons in these two places will beautifully represent the idea of comparison and extreme contrast; one in the depth of its harshness but also at the height of its ability to provide comfort along with some of the most amazing natural beauty a person can witness. The other, at the height of splendor that can only be attained with almost never-ending sunshine at the opposite of nearly endless darkness.” *
Honoring the Spirit of Exploration
Paul Patterson’s journey embodies the very essence of the GOH Travel Scholarship – exploration, learning, and inspiration through immersive experiences. We believe his travels will offer a compelling perspective on design, human connection, and the profound influence of environment and light.
Please join us in congratulating Paul Patterson, HBG Design’s GOH Travel Scholarship 2025 Winner! We look forward to sharing Paul’s insights and discoveries as he embarks on this extraordinary journey.
For more information on the GOH Travel Scholarship and to follow Paul’s journey, stay connected with HBG Design on our website and social media channels.
HBG Design voted a 2024 Top Workplace: Thank You, HBG Team!
We are incredibly proud to announce that HBG Design has been recognized as a 2024 Top Workplace by the Commercial Appeal for the 10th year in a row! This remarkable milestone reflects the dedication and enthusiasm of our team, and we couldn’t be more honored to receive this recognition.
In addition to this decade-long achievement, our San Diego office has been named a Best Place to Work for the second consecutive year. These awards are particularly meaningful because they are based entirely on employee feedback. The most significant aspect of these honors is not the awards themselves but what they represent: a shared commitment to fostering a thriving, inclusive, and inspiring workplace culture.
A Culture That Drives Us Forward
At HBG Design, we believe that people are at the heart of everything we do. This recognition speaks volumes about the strength of our culture, the dedication of our employees, and the visionary leadership that guides
us. It also highlights the bright future we are building together.
Here are some of the 2024 Top Workplace employee survey results that we are especially proud of this year:
- 97% of employees say their managers care about their concerns.
- Based on the Energage survey, HBG Design ranks in the top 20% of national design firms for caring and supportive managers.
- 92% of employees believe their managers and the firm support their professional growth and development. This also places HBG in the top 20% nationally for professional development opportunities within our industry.
- 94% of employees feel enabled to work at their full potential.
- 92% feel appreciated for their work.
These statistics underscore our commitment to empowering every team member to grow, thrive, and achieve their best.
Values That Define Us
This year, we were particularly thrilled to see these additional 2024 Top Workplace survey results:
- 92% of employees recognize HBG Design for its strong values.
- 91% of employees view HBG as an inclusive company.
These qualities are essential to our success and are at the core of how we operate every day. Fostering a Top Workplace environment of inclusion and upholding strong values isn’t just a goal—it’s how we achieve meaningful, impactful results as a firm.
Our Gratitude to the HBG Team
The Top Workplace recognition we’ve received over the years is a testament to YOU—our talented and passionate team. You are the heart of HBG Design, and your feedback drives us to keep improving, innovating, and delivering excellence.
Thank you for making HBG Design a truly exceptional place to work. Together, we will continue building on this legacy, shaping a workplace where everyone can thrive and making an impact across the industry for years to come.
Here’s to you, and here’s to the bright future ahead!
Ferran Espin Named 2024 HBG Employee of the Year!
Ferran Espin is the recipient of the 2024 HBG Employee of the Year legacy award. As Practice Leader Nathan Peak shared with fellow HBG employees during the award ceremony,
“Ferran is someone who embraces empathetic leadership, inspires others and positively impacts HBG’s culture. He is a champion of professional development, prioritizes mentorship, and demonstrates a passion for sharing knowledge and experience while capably directing project teams on some of our most complicated and multifaceted assignments.”
As the Senior Project Architect for the successful WinStar Tower 4/Lucas Oil Live project in Thackerville, Oklahoma, for The Chickasaw Nation, Ferran demonstrated exceptional ability in coordinating one of the firm’s largest and most complex undertakings to date.
“From our contractors to our clients and expansive consultant teams, the people who work with Ferran respect him as a great and knowledgeable leader,” added Peak, “His self-assured and zen-like personality emanates an unmatched level of experience and knowledge that comes across as authentic, professional, and thoughtful.”
HBG’s Principals recognized Ferran as someone who ‘moved the needle’ farther than anyone in 2024 and expressed confidence he will continue to be an integral part of HBG’s ability to ensure longevity in the years to come.
At the close of each year, the Principals at HBG Design uphold a cherished tradition: the Employee of the Year award. Originating nearly forty years ago, the firm’s founders intended this accolade to be the most prestigious honor bestowed upon an HBG employee, highlighting someone whose contributions leave a significant mark on the firm's practice or operations. Today, this vision continues to resonate powerfully. Congratulations, Ferran, 2024 HBG Employee of the Year!
Celebrating HBG Design’s 2024 Promotions
At HBG Design, leadership is defined by actions that align teams toward a collective vision and inspire collaboration to achieve shared goals. This year, we’re proud to announce the promotion of five exceptional individuals whose dedication, innovation, and leadership exemplify these values. Congratulations to Alexandra Milkovich, Senior Associate, and Associates Kristen Dixon, Ryan Callahan, Kalyn Johnson, and Patty Sprecco Johnson. Read more about their incredible contributions below:
Alexandra Milkovich, Senior Associate
Alexandra Milkovich has been a trailblazer in HBG Design’s San Diego office, showcasing remarkable growth from her early days in documentation support to her current role as a Senior Interior Designer. Known for her empathetic leadership, Alexandra fosters collaboration and mentorship within her team, empowering
junior designers with real-time feedback and opportunities to grow. Her commitment to design excellence and her role as an advocate for innovation through firm-wide initiatives have positioned her as a thought leader within the industry. Notably, Alexandra’s work has garnered recognition from prominent publications and organizations, including Global Gaming Business Magazine’s Top 40 Under 40 and the San Diego Business Journal’s “Leaders of Influence” in design. As a Senior Associate, Alexandra continues to inspire and lead by example, ensuring HBG’s future success.
Kalyn Johnson, Associate
Kalyn Johnson’s calm confidence and proactive approach have made her an indispensable leader at HBG Design. Her ability to seamlessly step into key roles demonstrates her adaptability and dedication to excellence. Kalyn’s technical expertise, combined with her strategic thinking and mentorship, has set a high standard within the interiors group. She has spearheaded risk management initiatives and created a knowledge hub to support her colleagues’ growth. Kalyn’s rare blend of technical precision, conceptual creativity, and empathetic leadership makes her a true unicorn in the industry. Her ability to connect and inspire her team ensures that HBG continues to deliver innovative and successful projects.
Kristen Dixon, Associate
Kristen Dixon has emerged as a vital contributor to HBG Design’s success, excelling in her role as a project architect and team leader. Kristen’s dedication to delivering meticulously coordinated and high-quality designs is matched by her ability to foster collaboration among project stakeholders. She approaches challenges with a solutions-oriented mindset and a focus on maintaining strong client relationships. Kristen’s commitment to professional growth and her passion for mentorship have left a lasting impact on her colleagues. As an Associate, Kristen is poised to further strengthen HBG’s reputation for excellence in design and project delivery.
Ryan Callahan, Associate
Ryan Callahan’s enthusiasm for community-focused design has defined his career at HBG Design. His work on projects such as Third Church of Christ Scientist exemplifies his ability to create spaces that inspire connection and enrich communities. Ryan’s thoughtful design approach and attention to detail have earned him recognition as a trusted team member and leader. His collaborative spirit and dedication to fostering innovation within his team make him a natural fit for his new role as Associate. Ryan’s vision and leadership will undoubtedly contribute to HBG’s continued success.
Patty Sprecco Johnson, Associate
Patty Sprecco’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping the operations and culture of HBG Design’s San Diego office. Since joining HBG seven years ago, Patty has played a key role in managing the office’s operations, including
overseeing service contracts, coordinating with building management, and navigating California’s complex regulatory landscape to ensure compliance. She has also been a driving force behind fostering a positive work environment that has supported the San Diego office’s growth to four times its original size. Now as HR Coordinator, Patty has taken on the responsibility of leading performance management processes for the San Diego and Dallas offices, demonstrating her ability to handle sensitive and impactful conversations with professionalism and care. Her dedication and leadership have left an indelible mark on HBG Design, and as an Associate, Patty continues to champion the firm’s values and mission.
Please join us in congratulating these outstanding individuals on their well-deserved promotions. Their dedication, leadership, and passion for design excellence ensure that HBG Design’s future is brighter than ever.
HBG Design’s KBCI Volunteer Days – Dallas in Action: Building Stronger Communities with Hearts and Hammers
At HBG Design, our dedication to creating meaningful connections with our communities shines through the Kirk Bobo Creating Impact (KBCI) Grant and Outreach Initiative. This program, named in honor of our co-founder, combines financial support, design expertise, and employee volunteerism to make a tangible difference in the lives of others.
Following the success of our Memphis team’s efforts at Windridge Park, the spotlight shifted to our Dallas office, where the team embodied the spirit of the KBCI initiative by partnering with Hearts and Hammers to preserve a cherished home and uplift a homeowner in need.
Revitalizing a Home, Uplifting a Life
On Tuesday, November 19, the HBG Design Dallas team joined forces with Hearts and Hammers, a nonprofit organization that provides essential exterior home repairs for low-income homeowners, including senior citizens, disabled individuals, and veterans.
During this impactful volunteer day, the Dallas team worked diligently to assist a 93-year-old homeowner, ensuring they could continue living independently in the home they love. The team’s efforts included:
- Trimming and painting to give the home a fresh, vibrant exterior,
- Staining the front door to create a polished and inviting look,
- Repairing gutters for improved drainage and long-term protection, and
- Completing minor but crucial repairs that enhance safety and functionality.
This heartfelt work reflects HBG Design’s core mission of enhancing lives and building stronger communities.
The Mission of Hearts and Hammers
For over 30 years, Hearts and Hammers has been a beacon of hope in the Dallas community, helping homeowners address structural and aesthetic issues that can compromise their ability to remain in their homes. By tackling these repairs, the organization creates stability and security for vulnerable individuals, often providing them with the support needed to avoid relocation.
Our partnership with Hearts and Hammers exemplifies the powerful impact that collaborative volunteerism can have—not only for the recipient but for the neighborhood as a whole.
Building Team Spirit and Connection
Beyond the physical improvements made to the home, this volunteer day fostered meaningful connections—both with the homeowner and within our team. As the Dallas colleagues worked side by side, they strengthened bonds and reinforced their shared commitment to giving back. The day was a testament to how teamwork and compassion can drive impactful change.
Looking Ahead: San Diego on Deck
With Memphis and Dallas having successfully completed their KBCI Volunteer Days, the focus now turns to HBG Design’s San Diego office. Next up, our San Diego team will collaborate with Fred Finch Youth & Family Services to create inspiring spaces for at-risk youth and families.
Stay tuned for the final installment of our three-part series, where we’ll celebrate the efforts of our San Diego colleagues and continue the KBCI legacy of service and transformation.
Thank you to our Dallas team for exemplifying the heart of HBG Design and for bringing our mission to life through meaningful action! Together, we’re creating lasting change—one community at a time.
Thankful for Global Design Explorations: Nathan Blair's Colombian Adventures
In the world of architecture and interior design, travel offers invaluable insights, influencing how we approach materials, space, color, how we translate culture into the built environment, it even informs our own place in the world. In addition to the adventures by our numerous GOH Travel Scholarship winners, other HBG Design team members regularly embark on distinct journeys of their own. Traveling through regions such as Eastern Europe, Western Europe and South America, they encounter rich tapestries of contrasts and vibrant influences that provide fresh perspectives on life, inspiration, and creativity. HBG's global design explorations directly inform and help shape our project designs.
This holiday season, as HBG Design waits patiently for the announcement of our 2025 GOH Travel Scholarship recipient, we invite you to follow along as we share personal and professional insights from HBG Principal Architectural Designer, Rob Jurbergs, AIA; HBG Lead Architectural Designer, Nathan Blair, AIA; and Lead Interior Designer, Christine Wass, IIDA, NCIDQ, through their own international explorations!
HBG's Global Design Explorations:
Lead Architectural Designer, Nathan Blair's Insights from a Journey Through Colombia
This year, I was fortunate to explore a few places, but Colombia stood out as the most unique by far. One of my close friends got married there over Memorial Day weekend, so we thought, why not turn it into an adventure? We decided to spend the week before the wedding touring around the country, diving into its vibrant culture and history, and discovering firsthand what makes Colombia special.
Bogota: A City of Layers and Influence
The trip began in Bogota, Colombia's bustling capital, a sprawling metropolis with the energy and challenges of a fast-growing urban center. It was a bit of a culture shock at first, so to ease into the local culture we hired a guide to help navigate Bogota’s streets and nuances, giving us great insight into the country. As a gateway between North and South America, Colombia has influences from both continents, though the Spanish impact is more visible. Bogota’s architecture and culture vividly reflect its Spanish colonial roots intertwined with influences from ancient indigenous cultures, including Incan elements. We saw this blend in everything from architecture to food. Speaking of food, it was incredibly fresh, with a variety of fruits we rarely see in the U.S.
Bogotá is a city on the rise, but like many growing cities, it faces challenges. Traffic is intense, with inadequate public transport options, which makes commuting difficult for those who can't afford to live in the city center. There's also a water shortage despite the frequent rain, as the aquifer struggles to keep up with demand. Bogota's challenges with infrastructure and water scarcity spark considerations on sustainable urban design—how can we plan spaces that serve and sustain growing populations without straining natural resources?
Cartagena: Urban Design Adapted to the Climate
After Bogotá, we headed to Cartagena, a vibrant city along the Caribbean coast founded by the Spanish in the 1600s. This experience brought lessons in adapting architecture for modern uses and to the climate. We stayed in a former Spanish convent from the 1650s, beautifully repurposed in the 1950s as a hotel, and expanded in the 2000s, which itself demonstrates a commitment to adaptive reuse.
The heat was intense, but the architecture in Cartagena is designed to handle it. Many buildings have deep courtyards filled with trees for shade, and most daytime activity happens on the ground floor, with high ceilings to allow the heat to rise. At night, the upper-level rooms take advantage of the evening breeze—a simple yet effective way to beat the tropical heat. Cartagena is relatively quiet during the day, but as the sun sets, it transforms into a lively, vibrant city.
Pereira and Filandia: Nature and Culture Collide
The final leg took us to Pereira, the largest city in Colombia's coffee region, where the lush, high-elevation jungle teems with color and life. Flying into the area, we saw coffee plantations stretching for miles among the vivid green mountains. Outside the city, it’s practically a jungle. We discovered a vibrant, sensory world of exotic creatures and plants. The wedding took place at a boutique hotel in the jungle, where we encountered all sorts of wildlife—giant iguanas, snakes, birds, and insects.
Colombia’s flora and fauna influenced the local design aesthetics, which are lively and multihued, embodying its own unique sense of place through architecture and design. This was evident during a visit to Filandia, a tourist village perched high on a mountain with stunning views. Filandia caters mostly to Colombian tourists, unlike Cartagena, which is more international. The day after the wedding, we traveled there on a chiva bus, a colorful party bus where the celebration continued all the way to the village.
Colombia’s rich palette and eclectic design language starkly contrasts with the streamlined aesthetics common in the U.S. They embrace bold, vibrant choices without fear—a design approach that feels liberating. This experience served as a reminder to stay playful and open to layering elements in our projects.
Lessons Learned in Design and Culture: HBG's Global Design Perspectives
Colombia was an incredible experience, filled with culture, color, and warmth. I left feeling like I'd glimpsed something truly inimitable. This journey through Colombia was a personal trip, but I found examples everywhere in how design, climate, and culture interweave, each reflecting and responding to the other.
- Nature as a Palette: Colombia’s landscape, with its tropical climate and diverse ecosystems, showcases vibrant colors and textures. This inspired a fresh approach to using color in design, especially as a tool to connect indoor spaces with their surroundings.
- Adaptive Solutions for Climate: Cartagena’s architectural techniques to cope with heat—high ceilings, shaded courtyards, and spatial arrangement—are reminders of the power of low-tech solutions tailored to the environment.
- Embracing Design Experimentation: The lack of stringent design codes and lower costs allow Colombians to experiment freely. This approach creates dynamic, layered spaces. In the U.S., we often start with similar ideas, but costs and codes tend to streamline our designs. But Colombia’s spirit of design experimentation can inspire new thinking, within the codes, of course.
- Communicating Design Language: In Colombia, we found that basic Spanish and hand gestures went a long way in bridging the language gap, with Google Translate helping in a pinch. Staying in hotels made communication a bit easier, but the experience underscored an important reminder: in design, we often need to find new ways to clearly convey our ideas to clients or laypeople who may not speak the same "design language." Embracing different perspectives and adapting our communication approach is essential for creating understanding and connection.
As I reflect on my trip, here are a few more general takeaways for those planning a trip to Colombia:
- Colombia lacks extensive interstate or rail connections, so air travel is the quickest way to get around.
- Much of Colombia is at high elevations, which, combined with rain and the equator, makes for unique growing conditions.
- The food is fresh, diverse, and features many fruits that are rare in the U.S.
- The country is filled with vibrant birds and flowers, including more hummingbird species than anywhere else.
- Prices in Colombia are a stark contrast to what we're used to in San Diego. Where coffee costs $5+ at home, we enjoyed excellent coffee and a pastry for less than $2.
- Colombian coffee is delicious, and, thankfully, everywhere!
At HBG Design, we see travel as a powerful source of inspiration, broadening our perspectives and enriching our work. This month, we honor the impact of global exploration on our designs—a legacy rooted by our co-founder, Gregory O. Hnedak, FAIA, whose passion for experiential learning lives on in HBG’s GOH Travel Scholarship. Greg believed that immersing oneself in diverse cultures opens doors to deeper, more meaningful design. His challenge to us remains:
Thankful for Global Design Perspectives: Rob Jurbergs Explores His Baltic Heritage
In the world of architecture and interior design, travel offers invaluable insights, influencing how we approach materials, space, color, how we translate culture into the built environment, it even informs our own place in the world. In addition to the adventures by our numerous GOH Travel Scholarship winners, other HBG Design team members regularly embark on distinct journeys of their own. Traveling through regions such as Eastern Europe, Western Europe and South America, they encounter rich tapestries of contrasts and vibrant influences that provide fresh perspectives on life, inspiration, and creativity. HBG's global design perspectives directly inform and help shape our project designs.
This holiday season, as HBG Design waits patiently for the announcement of our 2025 GOH Travel Scholarship recipient, we invite you to follow along as we share personal and professional insights from HBG Principal Architectural Designer, Rob Jurbergs, AIA; HBG Lead Architectural Designer, Nathan Blair, AIA; and Lead Interior Designer, Christine Wass, IIDA, NCIDQ, through their own international explorations!
HBG's Global Design Perspectives:
Principal Architectural Designer, Rob Jurbergs, Journeys Through Finland, Estonia, and Latvia
This past summer, I embarked on an incredible journey to Finland, Estonia, and Latvia. My last name, Jurbergs, originates in Latvia, a Baltic state tucked between the west side of Russia and Poland, and just south of Sweden. After World War II, a significant Latvian community settled in Senatobia, Mississippi, including my grandparents, aunt, and uncle. Growing up, I heard countless stories of Latvia’s rich traditions, especially the Midsummer celebration, the biggest holiday of the year. Latvians celebrate both the nights of Midsummer, Līgo, and the next day, which is known as St. John’s Day or Jāņi (Jani). This is a time when people gather, light bonfires, and celebrate the longest day of the year—much like how Americans celebrate the Fourth of July. This tradition has been on my bucket list for as long as I can remember, and this trip became my opportunity to experience it firsthand.
Flying into Helsinki, Finland, a friend and I stayed in the heart of downtown. I found myself surrounded by this modern city and striking architecture, with the only goal being to immerse myself in my surroundings of this centuries-old waterfront commerce hub that continues to thrive today. Helsinki’s architecture reflects its history, and intriguing Orthodox church architecture, with designs that hint at Russian influence.
Helsinki is now known as a design capital, and the city’s blend of modern innovation with rich arts immediately resonated with me. I visited the Kamppi Chapel, an iconic wooden structure resembling a large boat, and was captivated by its simplicity and peacefulness. Kamppi Chapel has been featured in numerous design publications; and it’s a powerful reminder of how architecture can create serene, introspective spaces in the middle of bustling cities.
I was excited to visit the Oodi Public Library, a significant piece of architecture that appears to float like a sail. The wood exterior rises vertically like an inverted ribbon and curves seamlessly into a canopy, with light flooding in to create a feeling like you’re at the prow of a ship. The building even ramps up at the end offering overlook areas—just a pure, immersive experience. This incredible space was filled with angular structure and expansiveness, with steps leading up to sit and take in the amazing light quality. The glass also had a special print that helps reduce heat and glare. It’s amazing how thoughtful design can elevate a public space such as a library, making it functional, communal, and inspiring.
A highlight of my Finnish travels was visiting the Loyly sauna, an experience I'll never forget the rest of my life. This waterfront spa merges the region’s traditional sauna culture with incredibly unique design. Built with a double skinned system of exterior wood slats and slides and sheer glass behind, the building allows glimpses of the sea from within while appearing impenetrable from the outside, like a rock from the harbor. This emphasized to me how nature and architecture can combine to create spaces that benefit our well-being—a concept I hope to incorporate in my future projects.
In the co-ed sauna, I experienced Finland’s communal culture, where people gather weekly to unwind and refresh. Jumping from a sweltering sauna into the Baltic Sea was a sensory shock unlike any other! You feel completely relaxed, almost like a drunkenness hits your system. The heat of the sauna was so intense that even holding my glasses hurt—the metal was scalding. Then, plunging into the freezing water, your body reacts instantly, releasing a rush of endorphins. It’s an incredible sensation to go back and forth between the two extremes.
Crossing into Estonia by ferry, I found myself in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Tallinn, a perfectly preserved medieval city. Walking through Tallinn was like stepping into Disneyland in a way, but with authentic buildings, meandering cobbled streets and fortress walls dating from the 1400s. Every corner seemed to tell a story. Tallinn’s rich history and historical structures made me think about how the medieval city’s scale and layout create an almost theatrical experience for visitors. There was still evidence of the more recent influence from communism, but the town is working to embrace its medieval story and working to restore the town. Tallinn is an example of design that fosters a living, breathing connection to the past.
Finally, I arrived in Latvia via bus on roads that cut through pastoral fields and wooded sections. Latvia’s landscape was every bit as breathtaking as my grandmother’s stories described, with beautiful forests, bucolic landscaped rivers very close to the ocean, and just an awesome natural environment. This is when I finally felt that I was truly experiencing my heritage. Riga, the capital, felt like a blend of the old and new, with medieval buildings alongside contemporary structures. My Airbnb in Riga was a cozy loft with timber rafters, perfect for taking in the city's charm and history.
Right outside stood a monument that is essentially Latvia’s equivalent of the Statue of Liberty. This is their monument symbolizing independence. Remarkably, they built it in the early 1920s as an independent nation before World War II. My family immigrated after the war as war refugees. Latvia, however, remained under Soviet control until 1990, when they regained independence.
Many Latvians who left initially thought they’d return after a short time. But once Latvia fell under communist control, few returned, not wanting to live under such restrictions. My grandparents, along with others, built their lives here in America. Communication with family in Latvia was limited, especially between generations. My aunt and uncle, now in their 70s, learned to speak Latvian as children, but connections to family there gradually faded.
Communism left a dark mark on Latvia’s history. Our tour guide told us about the deep distrust Latvians felt during the Soviet era—even with neighbors, as the KGB could detain people at any moment. Some of my distant relatives were even sent to Siberian work camps, essentially a death sentence, for opposing the Soviet regime.
Exploring Riga, we saw layers of this history. Coming from Helsinki, a modern city with a carefully preserved history, Riga felt like a blend of both worlds. The old squares, churches, and architecture brought centuries of history to life, going back to the 1300s and 1400s, well before America was founded. There is also a blend of newer architecture inserted through the town. Also, not many people know that the first Christmas tree was decorated in Riga.
The highlight and main reason for my trip was to experience Midsummer. I joined locals in their traditional festivities. Latvia has very old cultural roots, with traditions that celebrate nature, centered around the sun as a source of energy and life, especially for crops. Given its northern latitude—similar to Fairbanks, Alaska—Latvia experiences long, dark winters. So, the summer solstice, the longest day of sunlight each year, is a time of major celebration. People come together for dancing, singing, and wearing traditional dress. Men wear oak wreaths and women wear flower wreaths on their heads. I donned an oak leaf headpiece, sang traditional folk songs and danced around the bonfires. This experience was surreal—here I was, celebrating the Midsummer solstice as my ancestors had, feeling a profound connection to my roots. At the end of the night, we threw our oak leaf wreaths into the bonfire as is customary.
The tradition is to light the bonfire and stay up all night to make the most of this special day. Did I stay up all night? Almost! We stayed out late, but I had a flight early the next day, so I didn’t sleep much, just to make sure I didn’t miss my flight!
Also, I lost weight leading up to this trip, and a big part of it was shifting my mindset. I started to see this journey as an opportunity to improve my health and fitness on multiple levels. It made me realize that I need to focus on my own well-being and take better care of myself. I gained a new perspective—walking everywhere is just a natural part of daily life in Europe, and it made me appreciate the benefits of staying active.
This Baltic adventure wasn’t just a journey through historic architecture or beautiful landscapes; it was a lesson in how heritage, meaningful places, and traditions shape humanity, well-being, and create connections. It was my glimpse into a deeply communal culture that prioritizes shared experiences, staying active, and finding joy, qualities I think are overlooked in today's fast-paced world.
At HBG Design, we see travel as a powerful source of inspiration, broadening our perspectives and enriching our work. This month, we honor the impact of global exploration on our designs—a legacy rooted by our co-founder, Gregory O. Hnedak, FAIA, whose passion for experiential learning lives on in HBG’s GOH Travel Scholarship. Greg believed that immersing oneself in diverse cultures opens doors to deeper, more meaningful design. His challenge to us remains:
HBG Design’s KBCI Volunteer Days - Memphis in Action: Revitalizing Windridge Park with Memphis City Beautiful
Part 1: Memphis Sets the Standard for Beautification and Service
At HBG Design, our passion for community engagement comes to life through the Kirk Bobo Creating Impact (KBCI) Grant and Outreach Initiative. Named in honor of co-founder Kirk Bobo, this annual program combines financial support, design expertise, and employee volunteerism to drive meaningful change in the communities we serve.
This year, our Memphis, San Diego, and Dallas offices are taking part in a series of KBCI Volunteer Days, each partnering with local nonprofit organizations to make a difference. First up: the Memphis office.
A Fresh Start for Windridge Park
On Friday, November 15, the Memphis team joined forces with Memphis City Beautiful to revitalize Windridge Park and Elementary School. With tools in hand and a mission to create a more inviting space, our volunteers:
- Cleared litter from the playground and park grounds,
- Refreshed landscaping to enhance the park's appearance, and
- Restored the park’s natural beauty for families and children to enjoy.
This collaborative effort left a lasting impact on the community while fostering teamwork and camaraderie within our own office.
Partnering with Memphis City Beautiful
Since its founding in 1930, Memphis City Beautiful has been a trailblazer in environmental stewardship as the nation’s first beautification commission. Their mission—to create a clean, green, and beautiful Memphis—perfectly aligns with HBG Design’s commitment to improving the quality of life in our communities.
By working together, we’re not only enhancing public spaces but also supporting a vision for a brighter future.
The Legacy of KBCI in Memphis
Over the years, HBG Design’s Memphis office has contributed to many transformative projects under the KBCI initiative, including:
- Tillman Sculpture Park with Carpenter Art Garden: Creating an outdoor space for art and nature to come together in the Binghampton community.
- Paint Memphis Mural Arts Festival: Adding vibrant, large-scale murals that celebrate the city’s creativity and diversity.
- Heights CDC at Treadwell Middle School: Designing and implementing a welcoming new entryway for this vital community hub.
These projects underscore our dedication to using our expertise to build stronger, more vibrant communities.
Coming Soon: San Diego and Dallas Join the Effort
With the Memphis project complete, the spotlight now shifts to HBG Design’s San Diego and Dallas offices, which are gearing up for their own KBCI Volunteer Days.
- In San Diego, our team will partner with Fred Finch Youth & Family Services to enhance spaces that support at-risk youth and families.
- In Dallas, our office will collaborate with Hearts and Hammers to repair and improve homes for those in need.
Each project will bring a unique opportunity to make a meaningful difference, furthering the KBCI mission across the country.
Stay Tuned for More!
This post marks the first in a three-part series celebrating HBG Design’s KBCI Volunteer Days. Check back soon for updates from San Diego and Dallas as they continue this legacy of service and impact.
Together, we’re transforming communities and creating lasting change—one project at a time.
Crafting Memorable Stays: HBG Celebrates 45-Years Designing Branded Hotels
As the #3 ranked hospitality design firm in the U.S. by Hotel Business magazine, HBG Design has built its expertise in designing branded hotels over a 45-year history. From developing vertical prototypes for Holiday Inn to creating design extensions for the Gaylord Hotels brand (now part of Marriott), HBG Design has played a key role in shaping the landscape of commercial hotel brands. Over the past two decades, the firm has expanded its portfolio to include notable projects for brands such as Canopy by Hilton, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, IHG, Hyatt, and Marriott. HBG Design’s deep experience and innovative approach to hospitality design have established the firm as a leader in this space.
A History of Excellence in Branded Hotel Design
HBG Design’s journey in branded hotel design began with early projects like vertical prototypes for Holiday Inn and helping establish the Homewood Suites brand for Hilton. As the firm expanded, it took on more complex projects such as designing Gaylord Palms and Texan Resorts, contributing to the growth of these iconic brands. In recent years, HBG has collaborated with major hotel brands to craft properties for Hilton’s Canopy and Tapestry Collection, and enhanced prototypes for IHG and Hyatt properties.
These decades of experience have resulted in a deep understanding of brand standards, market expectations, and guest preferences, allowing HBG to create cohesive and brand-aligned experiences that appeal to both hotel owners and guests alike.
HBG Design’s Collaborative Approach
At the heart of HBG’s design process is collaboration. The firm’s strategic and creative workshop-style approach fosters active engagement between owners and designers, ensuring that each project is tailored to enhance guest experiences, while also meeting operational and budgetary needs. By diving deep into discussions about customer preferences, design aesthetics, and operational priorities, HBG Design aligns its concepts with long-term property goals for both new builds and renovations.
HBG's proprietary workshops and visualization processes help stakeholders make informed decisions early in the design process. This collaborative approach accelerates coordination, leading to seamless communication and faster design iterations that keep the project on track.
Expertise in Hotel Design Elements
HBG Design’s expertise spans every element of hotel design, from guestrooms and suites to food and beverage (F&B) venues, event spaces, spas, and back-of-house operations. The firm’s integrated architecture and interior design teams work hand-in-hand to ensure that each aspect of the hotel environment is thoughtfully considered and aligned with the overall design vision.
- Guestrooms and Suites: HBG focuses on creating spaces that balance comfort, durability, and operational efficiency, with a deep understanding of how guests interact with their rooms.
- F&B Venues: HBG’s expertise in designing flexible and multifunctional F&B spaces ensures that these venues not only meet guest needs throughout the day but also elevate the overall guest experience. From vibrant coffee bars to sophisticated fine dining, the firm designs F&B spaces that adapt to changing guest dynamics while maintaining brand consistency.
- Public and Event Spaces: Whether designing conference centers, meeting rooms, or event spaces, HBG ensures these areas provide seamless functionality for both guests and staff. The goal is to craft spaces that inspire and facilitate memorable guest experiences.
- Spa Amenities: With years of experience designing spa environments, HBG understands how to create tranquil, wellness-focused spaces that are both visually appealing and operationally efficient.
Design that Aligns with Brand Vision and Operational Efficiency
HBG Design’s approach goes beyond aesthetics, focusing on how design can drive operational success. The firm works closely with hotel stakeholders to ensure designs not only align with the brand’s vision but also improve operational efficiency. This includes strategic design decisions that optimize guest flow, staff workflows, and overall functionality, while also ensuring durability and ease of maintenance.
Additionally, HBG is known for its meticulous documentation process, which includes comprehensive design guides that ensure every detail is well-documented and ready for implementation. This integrated process helps streamline construction, reduce delays, and improve overall project outcomes.
Elevating Guest Experience through Design
HBG Design’s commitment to delivering top-tier hospitality environments is driven by its understanding of the guest experience. The firm crafts spaces that tell a cohesive design story, creating a sensory journey for guests as they move from one area of the hotel to another. Whether it’s a serene guestroom or a bustling F&B venue, every element is carefully curated to enhance the overall experience while reinforcing the brand identity.
HBG Design also integrates wellness, sustainability, and market needs into each project, ensuring that the final design is not only beautiful but also functional and future-proof.
A Proven Track Record in Hotel Renovations and Prototype Enhancements
With a wealth of experience in property improvements and brand prototype implementations, HBG Design brings valuable perspective to renovation projects. The firm’s expertise enables it to find innovative solutions that elevate both aesthetics and operational efficiency while staying within budget constraints.
HBG Design also stays ahead of industry trends by incorporating the latest technology, finishes, and design strategies that meet the evolving expectations of both hotel owners and guests. This forward-thinking approach ensures that every project stands out in an increasingly competitive market.
HBG Design’s decades of experience in branded hotel design have made the firm a leader in creating exceptional hospitality environments. Through its collaborative, workshop-driven design process and deep expertise in every element of hotel design, HBG delivers high-quality, innovative solutions that drive guest satisfaction and operational success. From new builds to renovations, HBG Design consistently meets the needs of both guests and stakeholders, ensuring long-term project success.
Beyond the Floor: Energizing Casino Perimeters
At HBG Design, our entertainment design specialists understand that today’s casino resort guests crave dynamic, immersive amenity experiences. That's why energizing the perimeter of the casino with the right food, beverage, and entertainment options is critical to shaping a well-rounded, engaging environment. Our recent renovation work at the Atlantis Bahamas Casino, which includes the enhanced Moon Bar and the newly introduced Bar Sol, demonstrates the power of thoughtfully integrated design in transforming the casino experience.
Strategic Floorplan and Sightlines: Enhancing Guest Interaction
In designing and renovating casino environments, the layout of the space plays a pivotal role. Sightlines and spatial flow are essential in creating a connection between the gaming floor and the surrounding venues. At Atlantis Bahamas, our goal was to invite guests to interact with the casino even when taking a break from the games.
The Moon Bar was reimagined and expanded to feature an elevated lounge area that overlooks the gaming floor. This elevated position allows guests to stay visually connected to the energy of the casino, maintaining their engagement with the gaming action while enjoying a cocktail or socializing. The design draws guests into a space that feels both intimate and part of the larger casino experience, a balance that is key to energizing the perimeter of a gaming environment.
Entertainment as a Bridge to the Gaming Floor
The integration of live music and entertainment options is another critical element in keeping the casino perimeter vibrant. We designed Bar Sol, a newly added venue inspired by the late Sol Kerzner’s dedication to Bahamian art and culture, with this concept in mind. Bar Sol's central location on the casino floor, paired with its raised stage and nightly live music performances, creates a fluid interaction between the casino and its entertainment offerings.
As guests gather at Bar Sol, whether for a drink or to enjoy live music, they remain visually connected to the gaming floor, experiencing the energy of the casino from a new vantage point. By incorporating entertainment venues like Bar Sol directly into the casino floorplan, we create opportunities for guests to transition effortlessly between gaming and entertainment, ensuring that the excitement never stops.
Design and Atmosphere: Reflecting Local Culture and Elegance
In addition to strategic layout and entertainment, the atmosphere of these venues is key to their success.
“At Moon Bar, we enhanced the "celestial sky" theme by incorporating illuminated and reflective materials that create a shimmering, sophisticated ambiance,” says Christine Wass, lead Interior designer for the Atlantis renovation, “This atmosphere draws guests in, offering an elevated experience that contrasts with the high energy of the gaming floor while still feeling connected to it.”
Bar Sol, inspired by Bahamian music and culture, features a restored Chihuly chandelier as its centerpiece. This stunning art piece, with its warm gold hues, sets the tone for a venue that blends elegance with vibrant entertainment. Guests are not only drawn to Bar Sol for its artistic design but also for its immersive cultural experience, making it a must-visit destination within the Atlantis Casino.
Energizing the Perimeter: A Comprehensive Approach
The work we’ve completed at Atlantis Bahamas Casino highlights how food, beverage, and entertainment venues can be thoughtfully integrated into the casino environment to keep guests engaged throughout their stay. By strategically designing sightlines, enhancing floorplans to allow for interaction between the gaming floor and surrounding venues, and incorporating live entertainment, we create spaces that elevate the overall casino experience.
At HBG Design, we understand that modern casinos are multifaceted entertainment destinations. Energizing the perimeter with well-curated, beautifully designed venues like the Moon Bar and Bar Sol not only extends the time guests spend on property but also enhances their connection to the casino’s dynamic environment, ensuring a memorable and engaging experience.