IGA Tradeshow and Conference Recap: HBG Design Shines in San Diego!
What a fantastic week in San Diego at the 2025 Indian Gaming Association Tradeshow and Conference (IGA)! Our team made a bold statement this year, showcasing HBG Design’s thought leadership, immersive exhibit design, and next-level hospitality.
Educational IGA Conference Panel
We kicked things off with a packed house at our educational session, “Scaling Your Casino Operations for Success,” which drew over 75 attendees! The panel was expertly moderated by our very own Danny Valle, Principal, and featured a powerhouse group of speakers:
- Jon Greendeer, President, Ho-Chunk Nation
- Evan Anderson, Director of Preconstruction, Connect Advisors
- Robert Blankmeyer, Operations Manager, PCL Construction Services Inc.
The panel offered incredible insights into the challenges and strategies behind expanding and optimizing casino operations—from capital planning to execution.
A Booth to Remember
We debuted our new interactive tradeshow booth, located right near the entrance—and you couldn’t miss it! A jumbo screen showcased some of our most exciting recent projects, and a touchscreen kiosk gave attendees a deeper dive into HBG’s Event Center Design portfolio, the Gun Lake Casino expansion, Pool and Spa concepts, and our master planning expertise. A big shoutout to Kelly DeVine, Ray Mabry, and Joe Baruffaldi for representing HBG at the booth and connecting with clients and industry partners throughout the show!
Party on the Harbor
Of course, no IGA week would be complete without our legendary industry party, and this year’s event was one for the books! We co-hosted with FS Advisors, Connect Advisors, Western Alliance Bank, Procopio, GMA, and Yates Construction aboard the Adventure Hornblower, a 3-story yacht docked in the beautiful San Diego Harbor. Over 500 guests joined us for cocktails, networking, and stunning sunset views from the open deck. It was truly a night to remember!
From our high-energy panel to our eye-catching booth and unforgettable party, the 2025 IGA Tradeshow was a huge success that continues to position HBG Design as a top firm in Indian Gaming. Big thanks to everyone who helped make this event a standout moment for our team and our brand!
Indian Gaming Asks the Experts: Kelly DeVine
Long-term growth planning helps tribal and financial clients uncover new investment opportunities and highlight the importance of strategic design-thinking from the very start.
“It’s all about planning smarter, thinking long-term, and making well-informed decisions. After all, as the saying goes, it’s easier to erase pencil than concrete.” - Kelly DeVine, Principal, HBG Design
Jan/Feb 2025
- INDIAN GAMING MAGAZINE -
By Kelly DeVine, as seen in Indian Gaming Magazine:
As we look ahead, we’re seeing tribal clients continue to tap into their deep expertise in casino development, expanding into new markets and project types, introducing exciting amenities, and even reimagining what next-gen casinos can be. These ventures reflect the resilience and forward-thinking spirit that have always defined tribal enterprises.
It’s all about planning smarter, thinking long-term, and making well-informed decisions. After all, as the saying goes, it’s easier to erase pencil than concrete.
We’re noticing a big uptick in requests for 20-year master plans. These plans help tribal and financial clients uncover new investment opportunities and highlight the importance of strategic design-thinking from the very start. Casino developments are often decades-long endeavors, involving careful coordination with environmental impact studies, land-use planning, and navigating approvals at multiple levels. Balancing economic factors, competitive dynamics, and community priorities is no small task. Starting early and thinking big—considering everything from market trends to land-into-trust requirements—lays a foundation for adaptable strategies that can evolve with changing conditions.
Another interesting shift we’re seeing is in how casinos are designed and built to meet evolving economic and customer needs. There’s a growing trend toward more open and streamlined gaming floors that maximize flexibility for slot machine placement. Sportsbooks and sports betting are also taking center stage, often integrated with other entertainment features right on the casino floor. This blending of spaces activates the entire area, driving revenue while creating a dynamic, immersive experience for guests.
On the construction side, new methods like cold-form metal framing and stick-built delivery are gaining popularity. They’re cost-effective alternatives to traditional materials like post-tension concrete, allowing operators to get more value without sacrificing quality or style. These innovations are a win-win for owners and guests alike.
Gun Lake Casino Resort Hotel is Open!
We're excited to announce the official opening of Gun Lake Casino Resort's new hotel, designed by HBG Design! HBG project leaders, Paul Bell, Thor Harland, and Lucas Holwerda, were on hand for the grand opening events in Wayland, Michigan on March 7, with Gun Lake Casino CEO, Sal Semola.
Read more about the hotel grand opening events:
Michigan’s Gun Lake Casino debuts 16-story luxury hotel in $300M expansion - mlive.com
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!
Celebrating the Live! Casino Louisiana Grand Opening
Project Grand Opening Celebration for Live! Bossier City Casino & Hotel - Casino designed by HBG Design
HBG Design was thrilled to celebrate the grand opening of Live! Casino & Hotel in Bossier City, Louisiana, on February 13!
Perched along the scenic Red River, this transformation of the former Diamond Jacks Casino by The Cordish Companies delivers an electrifying gaming and entertainment experience. The 47,000+ SF gaming floor boasts 1,000+ slots, electronic table games, and 40+ live-action tables—designed to flow like the river itself, culminating in a striking whirlpool-inspired canopy at the center bar.
Led by Architect-of-Record KdG, a division of Shive-Hattery, with HBG Design leading casino design, the property also features a luxurious 550-room hotel, vibrant dining venues, a sportsbook/bar, a resort pool, a fitness center, and a dynamic 25,000-SF event center for top-tier entertainment, meetings, and conferences. Live! Bossier City is igniting a thrilling new era of gaming and entertainment, redefining the region’s hospitality scene!
How Travel Influences HBG's Hospitality Designs
At HBG Design, our work is driven by one guiding principle: our clients’ visions. We don’t approach projects with a one-size-fits-all aesthetic. Our teams delve deeply into our clients’ missions, goals, and cultures. We also consider the local context and our travel influences. This approach helps us create designs that resonate with distinct audiences and purposes.
This commitment drives HBG designers to create immersive guest-focused spaces where architecture and interior design unite seamlessly. Designed environments enrich personal experiences and deliver lasting value, and foster meaningful connections.
Global Travel: A Catalyst for Creativity
A significant influence on our design philosophy comes from global travel, which offers profound insights into form, materials, spatial relationships. Through the global explorations of our GOH Travel Scholarship winners and the personal journeys of our team, we gain perspectives that inspire creativity and authenticity in our work.
Whether it’s studying intricate biophilic patterns in Spanish architecture or marveling at Finland’s innovative modern structures, these experiences inform our design thinking. Each HBG project becomes an opportunity to draw from these travel inspirations, creating environments with authenticity, creativity, and cultural resonance.
Nathan Blair’s Design Insights from Colombia
HBG Project Architect Nathan Blair, AIA, recently embarked on a journey through Colombia, a vibrant exploration of culture, climate, and design that reawakened his creative spirit. From Bogotá’s layered architecture to Cartagena’s climate-adapted spaces and the colorful energy of the coffee region, Nathan discovered how design responds to its environment.
His exploration revealed low-tech sustainable solutions and playful aesthetics free of rigid constraints, inspiring him to bring that sense of color, freedom, and storytelling into his work. This journey reminded him of design’s profound ability to connect people to place.
Christine Wass’ Travels Through Italy Shape Her Creative Worldview
HBG Interior Designer Christine Wass’ travels through northern Italy shaped her creative worldview, offering rich insights into history, culture, and design. In Florence, she admired Renaissance heritage through a climb to see the Duomo’s stunning views. Siena emphasized storytelling with intricate wolf-shaped motifs tied to local legends. Portofino unfolded as a hidden gem, its vibrant harbor embodying the beauty of discovery.
Christine also found inspiration in Milan’s intuitive subway wayfinding, an elegant example of functional design. Her journey reinforced the power of travel to inspire and shape community-driven, story-rich interior design projects.
Rob Jurbergs Explores Baltic Heritage and Design
HBG Principal Architectural Designer, Rob Jurbergs’ adventure through Finland, Estonia, and Latvia connected him to his Baltic roots while exploring innovative design and tradition. Helsinki’s Kamppi Chapel and Oodi Library offered examples of modern, community-focused architecture, while the Loyly sauna showcased the inimitable Finnish communal sauna culture.
In Tallinn, medieval charm provided a glimpse into preserved history, and Riga, Latvia, reflected resilience through a blend of old and new in a celebration of Latvia’s Midsummer traditions. In deepening his connection to heritage, Rob drew equal inspiration from wellness-focused, culturally thoughtful design approaches.
Travel Influences Promote Intentional and Holistic Design
By drawing on our travel inspirations, we create designs that respond not only to the physical environment but also to the experiential identity of each location.
From the 19th-century Spanish Colonial charm of Gaylord Palms Resort near Orlando, FL, to the sleek, desert-inspired abstractions of Desert Diamond West Valley Casino near Phoenix, AZ, HBG’s portfolio showcases how diverse inspirations can shape distinctive environments.
For instance, our design of the Cache Creek Resort Hotel and Spa in Capay Valley reflects the California sophistication and natural charm of its agricultural surroundings. Every design decision—from material selection to the nuanced integration of outdoor elements—was informed by a deep appreciation of the region’s unique landscape and agrarian character.
At Eagle Mountain Casino in Porterville, CA, the lodge-style aesthetic is infused with cultural references, celebrating the heritage of the local community.
Similarly, our design for Gun Lake Hotel and the Wawye Oasis near Grand Rapids, MI, demonstrates how contextual insights inform functionality and aesthetics. The striking glass-clad design is a direct response to the local climate, inviting natural sunlight and warmth to flood interior spaces while being engineered to endure the region’s demanding lake-effect weather conditions.
By weaving global travel influences and inspiration with an understanding of local context, HBG Design creates environments that transcend boundaries and deliver a distinctive sense of place. Each project is a testament to how travel, culture, and thoughtful design converge to enhance guest experiences and celebrate the uniqueness of every location.
Hospitality Design Trends for 2025
HBG Design Thinking: From Sustainable Innovations to Immersive Guest Experiences
As the hospitality industry gears up for 2025, the landscape continues to shift in response to economic, cultural, and technological forces. Insights from recent conferences such as The Lodging Conference, BDNY, and HD Expo provide a roadmap for what’s next in hospitality design. From sustainable innovations to immersive guest experiences, the trends shaping the future align closely with HBG Design’s mission to craft inspired and transformative spaces. HBG leaders Nathan Peak, Emily Marshall, Alexandra Milkovich and Landon Shockey weigh in on the trends.
Here’s what to expect in 2025 and how these trends will impact hospitality projects.
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Sustainability as a Core Value
HD Expo 2024 Show Floor
Sustainability is no longer optional—it’s integral to the guest experience and the development process. Hotels are weaving sustainable practices into their brand narratives, using them as a competitive advantage.
Key Takeaways:
- Material Choices: Expect an emphasis on eco-friendly materials, such as rattan, rich wood tones, and recycled metals.
- Operational Practices: Digital keys, water refill stations, and large-format amenities reduce waste and align with consumer expectations.
- Circular Design: Designers are scrutinizing supply chains to reduce carbon footprints, inspired by innovations like Styrofoam-free casegoods and eco-conscious packaging.
"HBG Design’s approach prioritizes solutions that enhance both operational efficiency and environmental stewardship – focusing on product longevity and sustainably made products, creating spaces that resonate with eco-conscious travelers," says Nathan Peak, AIA, LEED GA, HBG Principal and Practice Leader.
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Wellness and Well-Being Take Center Stage
The wellness economy continues to flourish, influencing everything from luxury spa design to guestroom amenities.
"Wellness isn’t just a trend—it’s a fundamental expectation for guests," says HBG Sr. Interior Designer, Landon Shockey, ASID, NCIDQ.
Key Takeaways:
- Holistic Offerings: Wellness extends beyond spas. Guests seek spaces that nourish mind and body, from sound baths to in-room wellness features like sleep-enhancing technologies.
- Luxury Wellness: Hotels like Six Senses are redefining luxury by integrating sleep science, spiritual well-being, and sustainable design into the guest journey.
- Flexible Programming: Spaces designed for multi-use programming—yoga classes by day and stargazing at night—offer unique experiences while maximizing ROI.
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Technology: Enhancing, Not Replacing, the Human Touch
Guest rooms and suites at Oaklawn Resort, Hot Springs, feature in-room tablets as digital concierges, offering seamless access to dining, promotions, events, and more.
"As artificial intelligence and automation advance, successful hospitality design will balance technology with human-centered experiences" explains Emily Marshall, IIDA, NCIDQ, HBG Principal / Interior Design Leader.
Key Takeaways:
- AI-Powered Guest Experiences: From personalized room preferences to virtual concierge services, AI adds convenience while preserving the essence of hospitality.
- Connected Spaces: Smart room technology enhances intuitive design, providing guests with seamless control over lighting, climate, and entertainment.
- Community Connection: Digital platforms are enabling guests to engage with one another, enhancing the sense of belonging and discovery.
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Elevated Design: Nostalgia Meets Modern Luxury
Design trends are leaning into warm palettes, nostalgic textures, and tactile materials, creating spaces that feel both luxurious and welcoming.
Key Takeaways:
- Color Trends: Deep plums, cranberry reds, olive greens, and butterscotch tones evoke a cozy, grounded atmosphere.
- Biophilia and Texture: Rich biophilic elements and layered textures add visual and sensory depth.
- Experiential Elements: Thoughtful design moments—like curated art installations or locally inspired storytelling—leave lasting impressions on guests.
"HBG Design excels at blending these elements into cohesive narratives that connect deeply with guests and reflect the property’s location and brand identity," offers Alexandra Milkovich, IIDA, NCIDQ, HBG Sr. Associate / Sr. Interior Designer.
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The Rise of Lifestyle and Extended-Stay Models
The Hadsten Solvang, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, blends a “vineyard vibe” with vintage Danish charm, the design reflects the rich heritage of Solvang and the allure of its wine-country surroundings.
"Increased demand for lifestyle boutique hotels and extended-stay options is reshaping the market, driven by the need for flexible, experience-rich accommodations," adds Marshall.
Key Takeaways:
- Lifestyle Hotels: Brands like Moxy and Virgin focus on curated experiences, from local art displays to intimate dining.
- Extended Stay: Accommodations catering to 30-, 60-, or 90-day stays provide opportunities for innovative design that bridges home and hospitality.
- Personalization: These models emphasize creating environments that feel unique and personal, offering a sense of discovery with every stay.
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Storytelling: Creating Emotional Connections
Milkovich adds: "The art of storytelling is redefining hospitality. Guests crave narratives that shape every aspect of their journey, from booking to departure."
Key Takeaways:
- Unique Branding: Fictional personas or cultural references—create memorable, cohesive brand stories.
- Local Integration: Leveraging neighborhood influences, such as street art or regional culinary themes, creates authentic connections.
- Consistent Messaging: Every touchpoint, from architecture to amenities, must reinforce the story and immerse guests in the experience.
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Looking Ahead: Opportunities for 2025
"The year ahead promises growth, innovation, and creativity in hospitality design," says Peak. "HBG Design remains committed to staying at the forefront of these trends, helping clients achieve their vision while crafting spaces that inspire and endure."
By combining sustainable practices, cutting-edge technology, and emotionally resonant storytelling, HBG is creating destinations that not only meet guest expectations but exceed them—ensuring properties thrive in an ever-evolving market.
Let’s start the conversation about how these trends can elevate your next project. Reach out to our team at HBG Design to explore the possibilities.
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!