Ask the Experts: Indian Gaming – A Look Forward

Kelly DeVine Offers Insights for Indian Gaming Magazine's 2026 'Ask the Experts: Indian Gaming – A Look Forward'

Kelly DeVine, Principal & Director of Strategic Partnerships, HBG Design

From Indian Gaming Magazine January/February 2026 Issue

As tribes consider their long-term economic visions and land development options, there has been a shift in how casino resort destinations are being planned. While the destination resort has long been the goal, what’s emerging is a more holistic, integrated town-center style approach, reimagined as a larger, tribally owned economic ecosystem anchored by the casino resort.  

Signature resort “wow” amenities like gaming, hotels, pools, spas, and event centers remain critical. What’s changing is how those resort amenities are positioned within a broader planned vision – organized from the casino and hotel, layered with complementary amenities and community infrastructure. This more intentional approach supports longer stays, creates customer loyalty, and greater community economic opportunity.

Resort guests need basics as much as indulgences, and when those needs are met on tribal land – through convenience stores and fuel centers, health and wellness offerings including CBD retail, and destination-oriented shopping – it creates a more livable experience and greater benefit for all. 

Looking ahead, we expect this integrated planning approach will continue gaining momentum, with casino resorts anchoring more self-sufficient town centers. By keeping both guest and tribal member spending on tribal land, this strategy strengthens local economies and expands long-term opportunities for tribal communities.

by Dana Ramsey

Are Your Public Spaces Working Hard Enough?

Hospitality Design Trends 2026: Wellness, Dwell Time & Revenue Activation

With rising construction costs and increasing guest expectations, every square foot inside a hotel or casino resort must deliver measurable value. Yet many public spaces — lobbies, lounges, pre-function areas, and resort environments — remain underleveraged.

The most important question for owners and operators today is simple: Are your public spaces working hard enough?

Across the hospitality industry, a shift is underway. Spaces that were once designed primarily for circulation are now expected to drive revenue, extend guest stays, and strengthen brand loyalty.

The future of hospitality design lies in activated public environments.

The 2026 Shift in Hospitality Design

One of the defining hospitality design trends of 2026 is the shift from passive gathering areas to multi-functional, revenue-generating environments.

Two major forces are driving this change.

First, hospitality and retail research consistently shows a direct correlation between guest dwell time and spending. When guests stay longer in an environment, they are more likely to engage with food and beverage, entertainment, retail, and premium amenities.

Second, the global wellness economy has grown to $6.8 trillion, according to the Global Wellness Institute. Wellness is no longer limited to spas or fitness centers; today it encompasses social connection, relaxation, and shared experiences — all of which take place in public environments.

For casino resorts and destination hotels, this means public space has become one of the most powerful economic tools on the property.

Public space is no longer transitional — it is strategic.

What Is Public Space Activation?

Public space activation is the intentional design of hospitality environments to support both experience and economics.

These spaces are designed to:

  • Increase guest dwell time
  • Encourage social interaction and group gathering
  • Support multi-generational audiences
  • Flex across dayparts and programming needs
  • Strengthen brand identity
  • Generate direct or indirect revenue

When done well, activated public spaces become the connective tissue of a resort, linking hospitality, entertainment, dining, and gaming into a seamless guest experience.

Gun Lake Resort: Designing an Indoor Destination

At Gun Lake Casino Resort, public space activation takes the form of an immersive indoor resort environment—free to guests during the day as a vibrant pool experience that also builds anticipation for the events and entertainment the space hosts at night.

The Wawyé Oasis, a 32,000-square-foot indoor tropical atrium, creates a year-round destination that blends leisure, entertainment, and social gathering into a single environment. The climate-controlled space includes resort-style pools, cabanas, lounge seating, and integrated food and beverage venues arranged around a flexible event stage.

The key to the space’s success is programmatic flexibility. During the day, the Oasis operates as a relaxed indoor pool retreat for hotel guests and families, while its open layout and visual connections to the stage and surrounding venues create energy and anticipation for evening programming. At night, the same environment transforms into a concert venue, DJ lounge, or special event space—dramatically increasing utilization and guest engagement across dayparts.

The environment also expands the resort’s audience. By creating a destination amenity that appeals to couples, families, and younger social groups, the property broadens its demographic reach beyond traditional gaming audiences.

Since completing its $300 million resort expansion, which introduced a hotel, spa, and new entertainment amenities, Gun Lake Casino Resort has reported a 20% increase in revenue along with strong hotel occupancy—signaling demand for experiential resort environments that extend the guest journey beyond gaming.

In this model, public space is not simply decorative—it becomes a strategic connector that builds visibility, excitement, and demand for the resort’s revenue-generating amenities.

Golden Mesa: Cultural Identity as Competitive Advantage

At Golden Mesa Casino & Hotel in Guymon, Oklahoma, public space activation takes a different approach — one rooted in cultural storytelling and social connection.

The property’s $78 million expansion doubled gaming capacity while introducing a new hotel, dining venues, and multiple gathering spaces that together transform the property into the Oklahoma Panhandle’s only full-scale casino resort destination.

Rather than designing the lobby as a traditional circulation zone, the space functions as a hospitality hub.

Residential-style seating clusters encourage guests to gather and linger, while the adjacent Panhandle Press café and nearby Cimarron Ridge restaurant create natural activity throughout the day. These proximities were intentionally designed to increase visibility and engagement with food and beverage offerings.

Technology also plays a role in activating the environment. On the casino floor, a 12-foot CLEAR digital signage wall introduces dynamic content and branding while maintaining visual transparency between the high-limit room and the gaming floor — drawing attention and curiosity from guests moving through the space.

Another key moment occurs at the transition between hospitality and gaming. A dramatic geometric light portal connecting the hotel lobby to the casino floor transforms circulation into an experiential threshold, guiding guests from calm social space into the energy of gaming.

These types of architectural moments do more than create visual impact — they encourage exploration and movement throughout the property.

Golden Mesa demonstrates how culturally authentic environments can drive both guest engagement and long-term brand differentiation.

The Future of Hospitality Public Space

Across hospitality and gaming resorts, a clear pattern is emerging.

The most valuable square footage in a property may no longer be the gaming floor or guestrooms — but the spaces in between.

When designed intentionally, public environments can:

  • Extend guest stays
  • Increase cross-property spending
  • Support events and entertainment programming
  • Strengthen brand identity
  • Create memorable social experiences

For owners and operators navigating rising construction costs and competitive markets, activated public space represents one of the most powerful design strategies available.

The most successful resorts in the next decade will not treat public space as circulation.

They will treat it as performance.

by LINDSAY GRAY

HBG Design Participates in the Form Follows Fitness 5K in Dallas

On a bright, sunshine-filled Saturday morning, team members from HBG Design’s Dallas office laced up their running shoes and joined thousands of architecture and design professionals at the annual Form Follows Fitness 5K—Dallas’ premier race celebrating the city’s iconic architecture. With an outstanding turnout, the event once again demonstrated the strength and vibrancy of the North Texas design community.

Team members from both the Dallas and Memphis offices participated, making it a meaningful cross-office event centered around wellness, community engagement, and industry connection.

Supporting the Purpose Behind the Race

Sponsored by Blackson Brick, the Form Follows Fitness 5K benefits The Architecture and Design Foundation. The Foundation is dedicated to advancing the value and impact of architecture and design throughout North Texas.

HBG Design is proud to support the mission of the Form Follows Fitness 5K and the Foundation’s efforts to make careers in architecture more accessible, cultivate future design leaders, and strengthen public engagement with the built environment. Investing in initiatives that elevate education, professional growth, and community awareness aligns closely with HBG’s own commitment to advancing the design industry.

The race route winds through some of Dallas’ most architecturally significant neighborhoods—including Uptown, the Arts District, and the West End—offering participants a unique opportunity to experience the city’s built environment from a new perspective.

Race Day Highlights

Beyond the run itself, the event offered extensive opportunities for networking and community engagement. HBG Design hosted a well-branded booth that attracted steady traffic throughout the morning. Team members connected with industry peers, strengthened existing relationships, and introduced HBG’s work and culture to new audiences.

With thoughtfully curated merchandise and refreshments, the booth created a welcoming space for conversation and engagement. The event also provided a valuable opportunity to elevate brand visibility in the Dallas market and actively connect with potential future team members.

Looking Ahead

Participation in the Form Follows Fitness 5K reflects HBG Design’s ongoing commitment to supporting the design community, promoting professional development, and encouraging wellness among our teams. Events like this allow us to celebrate architecture while strengthening relationships across offices and within the broader industry.

Thank you to everyone who helped coordinate and organize HBG’s involvement and ensured the day was a success.

Way to go, Team HBG!

by LINDSAY GRAY

HBG Design Featured on No Vacancy: Why Casino Resorts Now Compete Like Destination Hotels

Regional casino resorts have evolved—and today’s most successful properties are no longer competing solely on gaming floors or square footage. They are competing as full-scale destination hotels, designed to extend stays, increase spend, and drive repeat visitation.

That shift is the focus of a recent episode of the No Vacancy podcast, hosted by Glenn Haussman with guest co-host Dr. Suzanne Bagnera, featuring HBG Design leaders Kelly DeVine, Principal, and Emily Marshall, NCIDQ, NEWH, IIDA, Principal and Interior Design Leader.

In the episode, Kelly and Emily discuss how design, operations, and profitability are inseparable in modern regional casino resorts—and why performance-driven design must start long before finishes and aesthetics are considered.

From Regional Casino to Destination Resort

Using Gun Lake Casino Resort in Michigan as a case study, the conversation explores how regional gaming properties now compete with Las Vegas–style destination resorts. Guests expect more than gaming alone: hospitality, dining, entertainment, and thoughtfully designed hotel experiences all play a role in attracting longer stays and repeat visits.

Kelly and Emily emphasize that this evolution requires a fundamental shift in how projects are approached—one that prioritizes operational strategy and guest behavior from day one.

Designing for Gaming Performance

One of the key insights from the episode is how hotel design directly influences gaming behavior. Guest rooms must strike a careful balance: they should feel comfortable and welcoming, but not so indulgent that guests disengage from the casino floor and resort amenities.

This intentional approach ensures that the hotel supports—not competes with—the core gaming experience, reinforcing the overall business model of the resort.

Operations First: The Engine Behind the Experience

At HBG Design, successful casino resorts begin with operations. Kelly and Emily discuss why elements such as:

  • Housekeeping flow and back-of-house efficiency
  • Durability and material selection
  • Turnover time and maintenance realities

are often more critical to long-term performance than purely visual considerations.

By designing the “engine” before the exterior experience, properties are better positioned to operate efficiently, control costs, and deliver consistent guest satisfaction over time.

Programming Spaces for Repeat Visitation

Beyond the hotel and gaming floor, the episode highlights the importance of programming spaces that keep guests coming back—especially local and regional visitors. Flexible entertainment venues, food and beverage offerings, and social spaces all contribute to building loyalty and extending engagement beyond a single visit.

Design as a Business Tool

Ultimately, the conversation reinforces a core HBG Design philosophy: design is not a vanity exercise—it is a business tool. When design decisions are grounded in operations, guest behavior, and measurable outcomes, they can directly support revenue growth and long-term success.

We’re proud to see Kelly DeVine and Emily Marshall share their expertise on No Vacancy and contribute to an industry-wide conversation about performance-driven design in today’s casino resorts.

Listen to the full episode of No Vacancy: Episode 1009 – Why Casino Resorts Now Compete Like Destination Hotels to hear the complete discussion and insights.

 

by LINDSAY GRAY

Designing a Better Stay: Golden Mesa’s Guestrooms Set a New Hospitality Standard

At Golden Mesa Casino & Hotel, the guestrooms and suites were intentionally designed to do more than provide overnight accommodations—they were conceived as a strategic extension of the resort experience, supporting guest satisfaction, brand perception, and long-term value. For hospitality operators, these spaces demonstrate how thoughtful interior design can directly enhance a property’s competitiveness within its market.

As part of the $78 million expansion, HBG Design approached the hotel tower with a clear objective: deliver guestrooms that feel warm, contemporary, and rooted in place, while aligning with the expectations of today’s resort guest. The result is a collection of rooms and suites that elevate comfort and atmosphere without unnecessary complexity—raising the design standard for hospitality in Oklahoma’s Panhandle.

A Cohesive Design Strategy from Arrival to Guestroom

The guest experience begins well before the room door opens. Elevator lobbies introduce a subtle dusk-to-dawn progression through shifting wallcovering tones, guiding guests vertically through the tower and reinforcing a sense of journey and arrival. Guestroom corridors continue this narrative with ambient lighting and a warm, textural palette—setting a calm, welcoming tone that supports guest satisfaction and wayfinding.

Inside the guestrooms, natural materials and a disciplined color strategy establish an immediate sense of comfort. Warm white oak millwork anchors the space, delivering durability, longevity, and a residential feel that resonates with today’s travelers. Custom headboard assemblies integrate upholstered panels and built-in reading lights, reducing visual clutter while enhancing functionality and ease of use.

Above the bed, landscape-inspired artwork reflects the open skies and sunlit plains of the Panhandle through layered blues, soft whites, and sandy neutrals. Rather than literal theming, these elements provide a sense of place that feels authentic and timeless—supporting brand identity without limiting future adaptability.

“We focused on creating depth and contrast rather than relying on expensive gestures. By layering rich, saturated colors against warm wood tones and soft neutrals, we created guestrooms that feel calm, refined, and highly livable—spaces that elevate the guest experience while remaining efficient to build and maintain.”

— Chris Wood, Lead Interior Designer

Accent walls in deep, atmospheric blue tones add contrast and visual interest, framing seating areas and window views while giving the rooms a stronger sense of identity. Layered window treatments—sheer panels paired with blackout drapery—offer guests control over light, privacy, and comfort, a critical expectation in resort and casino hospitality.

Custom-designed carpet introduces subtle movement through geometric patterns inspired by the surrounding landscape. The pattern adds energy and durability while visually tying the room together—an important consideration for high-traffic hospitality environments.

Lighting Designed for Comfort, Efficiency, and Atmosphere

Lighting was treated as a foundational design tool rather than a finishing layer. Integrated bedside sconces provide focused task lighting, while ambient and accent illumination shape the overall mood of the room. This layered approach supports both relaxation and functionality, allowing guestrooms to transition seamlessly from daytime retreat to evening sanctuary—enhancing guest comfort while supporting operational efficiency.

Suites Designed to Deliver Premium Value

Golden Mesa’s suites—offered in 1.5- and 2-bay configurations—were designed to meet the needs of longer stays, VIP guests, and premium players, while maintaining a strong sense of cohesion with the standard guestrooms.

A defining feature is the solid white oak slat feature wall, which creates separation between living and sleeping zones without sacrificing openness. Integrated twinkle light detailing adds a refined, hospitality-forward moment—introducing visual interest, warmth, and a sense of occasion that elevates the suite experience without adding operational complexity.

The suites introduce a deeper, more grounded color palette, with rich green walls that create a residential, intimate atmosphere. These tones are balanced by warm wood finishes, textured ceiling treatments, and tailored furnishings—enhancing the perception of value while maintaining a welcoming, approachable feel.

Custom millwork desks with stone-look surfaces provide flexible functionality for work or leisure, while curated lighting and accessories elevate the space beyond a typical hotel suite. In the bedroom, large-scale artwork continues the landscape narrative, reinforcing a consistent design story throughout the tower.

An organic-patterned carpet flows through the suite, visually connecting zones and reinforcing the natural inspiration behind the design—while offering durability and ease of maintenance for long-term operations.

Strengthening the Resort Through Guestroom Design

By investing in elevated guestrooms and suites, Golden Mesa Casino & Hotel strengthens the entire resort ecosystem. The hotel tower provides a refined counterbalance to the energy of the casino floor and entertainment venues, supporting longer stays, repeat visitation, and a broader guest demographic.

For hospitality clients, Golden Mesa demonstrates how strategic interior design—focused on materiality, lighting, durability, and sense of place—can enhance guest satisfaction, reinforce brand identity, and deliver long-term value. These guestrooms are not simply places to sleep; they are a critical component of the resort’s overall performance and positioning as a destination.

Guestroom and Suite Vendor List: 

by LINDSAY GRAY

HBG Design Thinking: Hospitality Design Report

In 2026, hospitality design is all about creating immersive, memorable experiences that resonate with guests long after they leave. From boutique hotels to large-scale resorts and entertainment destinations, the bar for innovation has never been higher. HBG Design, ranked #2 Hospitality and Entertainment Design Firm in the U.S., by Hotel Business Magazine for 2026, has decades of experience translating industry insights into transformative guest experiences. This year, our team has identified the design thinking that will define hospitality experiences and drive both engagement and operational success.

You can download the full 'HBG Design Thinking' Hospitality Design Report here.

Social Wellness: Connection as the New Currency

Wellness has evolved beyond serenity and self-care—connection is now central to well-being. Guests increasingly seek shared experiences that foster community and engagement. HBG clients are already ahead of this curve, with co-ed hydrothermal lounges at WinStar Spa and hydrotherapy pools at MnoYé Spa at Gun Lake Resort. These spaces blend luxury, functionality, and social interaction, transforming wellness into a destination activity rather than a solitary experience.

Open Edge Environments

Seamless indoor–outdoor environments are no longer just a coastal luxury—they’re expected year-round, everywhere. The Wawyé Oasis at Gun Lake Resort exemplifies this trend, featuring a six-story glass dome that creates a tropical, light-filled escape in Wayland, Michigan. Guests enjoy the sensation of being outdoors while designers control climate, programming, and operational flexibility, proving that immersive environments drive engagement and revenue alike.

Maximalism with Meaning

Color and material storytelling are taking center stage. For an upcoming boutique resort lobby, HBG Design collaborated with Schumacher Hospitality to transform iconic residential patterns into hospitality-grade fabrics and wallcoverings. Custom applications—from vibrant lobby wallcoverings to rooftop restaurant fabrics—combine durability with artistry, craft, and narrative inspiration drawn from the surrounding woodland landscapes and local industrial heritage.

Ready to explore all six trends in detail?

Download the full 'HBG Design Thinking' Hospitality Design Report to see more quotes, actionable owner checklists, and client case studies that bring these insights to life.

by LINDSAY GRAY

Project Delivery: Delivering Complexity with Confidence

Ensuring Design Intent for Large Scale Projects

At HBG Design, Construction Administration is not a back-end service. It is a core component of project delivery—bridging design intent and built reality. On large and technically demanding projects, Construction Administration becomes the engine that aligns teams and manages complexity from day one.

Embedded Specialization from Day One

HBG provides dedicated CA representatives who bring deep casino and large-scale hospitality experience. Our CA leaders are fully embedded in the construction process—participating in coordination sessions to help ensure decisions are clearly documented, communicated, and implemented.

In the field, our CA representatives operate with a clear mandate: be visible, accessible, accountable, and solution-oriented. Site observation debriefs are conducted at the conclusion of each visit, enabling real-time discussion. This proactive communication helps resolve questions early, reduce downstream impacts, and reinforce trust across the project team.

Managing Change with Clarity and Control

Change is inevitable on complex projects. What matters is how it is managed. HBG’s CA team works to identify potential changes early, evaluate impacts to design, budget, and schedule, and present clear options so Owners can make informed decisions.

By closely monitoring RFIs, Submittals, and field conditions, our team minimizes ASIs and increases opportunities for clarity. When changes are approved, we focus on value-based solutions that maintain quality, protect design intent, and support overall project goals.

Closing Out with the Same Discipline

Construction Administration doesn’t end at substantial completion. HBG streamlines punch list documentation, allowing items to be recorded efficiently and consistently across the CA team—often with reports generated before leaving the site.

Our services also include reviewing pay applications, coordinating close-out documentation, and assembling complete record drawings, including building signage. Deliverables are provided in the format preferred by Ownership, supporting smooth turnover and long-term facility operations.

by LINDSAY GRAY

A Tropical Escape in the Heart of Michigan: The Wawyé Oasis

When winter grips Michigan in icy temperatures, guests at Gun Lake Casino Resort are now floating beneath a sunlit glass dome in a lush, 82-degree tropical paradise. Debuting in May 2025, the six-story, 32,000-square-foot Wawyé Oasis redefines what’s possible for year-round resort design—seamlessly shifting from daytime pool retreat to high-capacity concert venue, nightclub, and banquet space. Shaped by solar studies and engineered as a massive glass “sundial,” the Oasis is both sculptural and supremely functional, capturing natural daylight while shielding guests from the region’s harsh climate.

As the architectural and experiential centerpiece of Gun Lake’s $300 million expansion, the Oasis anchors a new 252-room hotel and full-service spa—establishing the resort as a true “daycation” destination for guests across Michigan and major Midwest markets. From bird-safe, low-E glass and climate-responsive HVAC systems to flexible acoustics, dynamic lighting, and thoughtfully zoned guest experiences, every element was precision-engineered to support comfort, performance, and unforgettable entertainment.

The result is more than a building—it’s a fully immersive, adaptable environment where architecture, engineering, and guest experience converge in spectacular fashion.

Wawye Oasis Project Release

▶ Watch the full design thinking video to explore the innovation behind the Wawyé Oasis—and flip through the complete Project Design Release for detailed insights into the architecture, engineering, sustainability strategies, and guest experience that bring this extraordinary destination to life.

by LINDSAY GRAY

Five Standout Employee Promotions Announced at HBG

Ensuring Longevity & Celebrating Growth

HBG Design is proud to announce the promotion of four employees to Associate and one to Senior Associate—each exemplifying the firm’s commitment to cultivating leadership from within. These elevations reflect the depth of talent, drive, and creative excellence across our integrated practice.

Our newly promoted Senior Associate, Thor Harland, along with new Associates Lindsay Maggipinto, Megan Collier, Jim Wadlington, and Mark Rojas, represent the strength, diversity, and forward momentum of HBG’s growing team. Together, they embody the creative thinking, technical proficiency, and collaborative spirit that define our contribution to the built environment and enrich our firm culture.

Associates and Senior Associates play a vital role in shaping the future of HBG. They mentor colleagues, advance education and outreach, and support our ongoing efforts to integrate process improvements, innovation, and diverse perspectives into everything we do. Thor, Lindsay, Megan, Jim, and Mark are clear examples of these values in action.

Megan Collier, Associate – San Diego Office

Interior Designer Megan Collier is recognized for her thoughtful leadership, client engagement, and collaborative approach. Her work spans hospitality interiors, construction administration, and design presentations, all supported by a balance of creativity and pragmatism.

Promotion Highlights:

  • Provides patient, supportive mentorship to junior staff and interns, fostering a culture of continuous learning.

  • Builds trust through adaptive communication and strong relationship-building across diverse stakeholder groups.

  • Balances innovation with budget constraints, making strategic choices that lead to high-quality outcomes.

  • Contributes to a positive office environment by sharing insights, helping solve challenges, and organizing interdisciplinary team activities.

Jim Wadlington, Associate – Memphis Office

Jim Wadlington earned his promotion through impressive adaptability, leadership, and operational excellence during a pivotal transition period for the firm.

Promotion Highlights:

  • Quickly mastered company financial operations and a new accounting platform under tight deadlines and high pressure.

  • Built a cohesive, high-performing financial services team within a short period.

  • Improved financial reporting, accelerated month-end processes by 15 days, and strengthened project management support.

  • Demonstrated dependable, transparent leadership—consistently raising standards and earning firm-wide trust.

Lindsay Maggipinto, Associate – Memphis Office

Returning to HBG with expanded expertise, Lindsay Maggipinto made an immediate impact through her technical excellence, leadership, and project ownership.

Promotion Highlights:

  • Brings a unique career trajectory that includes years of experience both inside and outside HBG, enriching her leadership and perspective.

  • Leads complex project tasks with precision, often solving challenges rapidly and efficiently.

  • Mentors junior staff, providing technical guidance and reinforcing strong workplace habits and problem-solving skills.

  • Advocates for thoughtful, balanced design decisions while maintaining clear communication and a composed leadership style.

Mark Rojas, Associate – San Diego Office

Mark Rojas is celebrated for his resilience, technical expertise, and contributions to process innovation within the growing San Diego office.

Promotion Highlights:

  • Demonstrates an ability to navigate complex systems and shifting priorities with resourcefulness and calm.

  • Leads projects while also serving as BIM coordinator and contributing to firm initiatives focused on standards and quality.

  • Improved firm-wide consistency by developing a system for managing building envelope assemblies that streamlined scheduling.

  • Helps shape office culture through strong communication, professionalism, and a steady, positive presence.

Thor Harland, Senior Associate – Memphis Office

Thor Harland is recognized for his leadership, creativity, and holistic approach to design and project delivery.

Promotion Highlights:

  • Provides steady, focused leadership in high-stakes environments, guiding teams through demanding schedules and complex challenges.

  • Strengthens design impact through authentic concept development and strong, clear communication with stakeholders.

  • Mentors junior staff across offices, fostering collaboration, shared learning, and design innovation.

  • Bridges architecture and interiors to ensure cohesive project integration supported by detailed presentations and effective coordination.

by LINDSAY GRAY

A Curated Look at BDNY 2025: Materials, Trends & Designer Insights

Megan and Kristina attend BDNY 2025

Set in the cultural capital of New York City, Boutique Design New York (BDNY) brings together the hospitality industry’s leading voices, brands, and creators. It’s a vibrant convergence of design innovation—where boutique hotel concepts, emerging materials, and experiential environments take center stage. For designers looking to push boundaries, grow their expertise, and tap into what’s next, BDNY continues to be one of the most influential events of the year.

As part of HBG Design’s longstanding tradition of attending BDNY each year, we sent two talented interior designers—Megan Peel from our Memphis office and Kristina Hoang from our San Diego office—to experience the show firsthand. Their insights reveal the trends, materials, and moments shaping the future of hospitality design, and how those discoveries directly elevate HBG’s work for our clients.

 Spotlighting Emerging Trends: A Recap from Megan Peel, Interior Designer (Memphis)

Natural stone as sculptural furniture was an early standout for Megan, who noticed designers applying stone in unexpected ways—wrapping sofa backs, accenting dining chairs, and adding mass and luxury to typically lighter pieces. These approaches signal a shift toward furnishings that feel more permanent, architectural, and artful.

She also saw deep color saturation and color-drenched environments continuing to gain momentum. Many exhibitors reinterpreted vintage or elaborate stylistic elements through rich hues and layered finishes—showcasing how the past can be thoughtfully transformed into the present.

A notable aesthetic direction was the resurgence of East-Asian design influences, appearing in carpet patterns, screens, and subtle architectural accents. Complementing these quieter palettes were natural textures inspired by water, reflected in rippled metals and glass incorporated into ceiling panels, headboards, partitions, and tables.

For Megan, BDNY served as more than a trend-spotting opportunity—it was a relationship-building experience with real project impact. Designers were able to walk the show with a potential HBG client, gaining early insight into their aesthetic preferences and material expectations while meeting vendors who could support future project needs. The show also reinforced the power of storytelling and how physical materials can center the guest experience in unexpected ways.

Design Evolution & Elevated Detailing: A Recap from Kristina Hoang, Interior Designer (San Diego)

Kristina observed that the curved forms trending in recent years have evolved into a more refined, contemporary language. Exhibitors showcased cleaner detailing, more intentional craftsmanship, and unique ways of expressing organic shapes—making these silhouettes feel sophisticated and fresh.

Across material palettes, she noted a noticeable pivot toward richer, more vibrant earth tones. Instead of the muted desert colors popular in past years, designers embraced mossy greens, deep plums, caramels, woven textiles, and exaggerated pattern scales. The overall direction was tactile, bold, and layered.

While exploring furniture, lighting, and art curation, Kristina found multiple moments of inspiration that will help infuse that same energy into HBG’s hotel and resort projects.

How BDNY Strengthens HBG’s Design Leadership

As both Megan and Kristina shared, BDNY offers powerful advantages for our project teams and our clients:

  • Early access to the products, materials, and ideas shaping the next era of hospitality
  • Direct connection with manufacturers and vendors, strengthening the sourcing and specification process
  • Unique opportunities to walk the show with clients, gaining real-time insights into their preferences
  • Inspiration that fuels fresh, guest-centered design solutions

BDNY continues to push the industry forward—and HBG’s designers return each year with renewed energy, deeper knowledge, and a stronger network of partners to support exceptional hospitality environments.

by LINDSAY GRAY