ɫèapp Recognized as a 2024 Best Place to Work

ɫèapp is proud to announce that it has been named a winner in the San Diego Business Journal’s“Best Places to Work 2024” awards.Being recognized as #14 (mid-size companies) out of hundreds of entries in the highly-competitive program underscores HBG’s commitment to creating a dynamic and supportive workplace culture that fosters innovation, collaboration, and employee satisfaction.

“Our team is the driving force behind our success, and we are dedicated to maintaining an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to achieve their best,” said Nathan Peak, HBG President & Practice Leader.

ճSan Diego Business Journal’s Best Places to Work awards evaluate companies based on their workplace policies and practices, growth potential and opportunities for employees, corporate culture, benefits and compensation, access to management, and corporate values. This accolade is a testament to HBG’s ongoing efforts to create a thriving workplace where employees are motivated and engaged. The evaluation process was based on an employee survey conducted by Workforce Resource Group, assessing topics like management effectiveness, employee perks, growth opportunities, and overall company culture.

“We are incredibly grateful to our dedicated and energized team,”said Joe Baruffaldi, Orange Group Leader, “their commitment to our shared values is such an important part of what makes ɫèapp the kind of company where everyone is excited to contribute and be part of something really special.”


GOH Travel Scholarship Winner: My Unforgettable Journey Through Japan

Travel enriches our lives, broadens our outlook and opens our minds…In those moments immersed in another cultural context we learn about other perspectives. The GOH Travel Scholarship awards $7,500 annually to one employee to enhance experience-based learning through a purposeful international travel journey. Scholarship recipients share how their discoveries impact the way we look at life, appreciate culture and approach design. Shernina Carter was selected as the 2024 GOH Travel Scholarship Winner and after returning from her trip to Japan, she's back to share highlights from her journey. Watch below to enjoy Shernina's full presentation of her trip.

Shernina Carter Guest Blogger - GOH Travel Scholarship Trip to Japan

“The frog in the well knows nothing of the great ocean.”

This Japanese proverb struck me as I prepared for my journey to Japan. Combating fear, saying yes to new experiences, and embracing growth and change became the foundation of my trip.

ɫèapp Memphis Employee, Shernina Carter, Awarded 2024 GOH Travel Scholarship

If you'd like to experience my trip from beginning to end, I invite you to check out I recently shared with my co-workers. But first, here are some of my favorite highlights—let's dive in!

One Japanese phrase that resonated deeply with me is ichi-go ichi-e, meaning "one time, one meeting." It reminds us to cherish each moment and encounter, because they happen only once in a lifetime. Throughout my travels in Kyoto, Osaka, and Tokyo, I made it a point to stay mindful, fully immerse myself in the experience, and appreciate the beauty of the present moment.

Kyoto

Kyoto - The Golden Pavilion

One of my must-see spots was Kinkaku-ji, or as it's known in English, the Golden Pavilion. Its breathtaking beauty and rich history were calling me—and I knew I had to experience it for myself. The atmosphere was so serene, it set the tone for my entire adventure. I also visited Ryoan-ji, where the famous rock garden invited me to meditate and reflect on life’s simplicity and beauty.

One of the most memorable moments in Kyoto was when I donned a traditional kimono and participated in a matcha tea ceremony at Kimono Tea Ceremony Maikoya. The entire process of preparing and serving matcha felt like a meditative practice, reminding me to live in the moment and appreciate the uniqueness of each experience. It was a beautiful way to immerse myself in the history and mindful traditions of Japan.

Wandering through dzٴ’s Gion District, I learned about the rich traditions of geishas and kabuki performers, soaking in the cultural heritage of the city. I could almost feel the stories from centuries past lingering in the air as I walked through the historic streets.

dzٴ’s Nishiki Market, often called "dzٴ’s Kitchen," was a food lover’s dream. I strolled through the market, marveling at local delicacies like octopus on a stick and giant shrimp. The market’s history and its generations-old shops made it a truly captivating stop on my adventure.

Osaka

Wearing a yukata at Solaniwa Onsen Osaka Bay

My journey to Osaka took me to Solaniwa Onsen Osaka Bay, where I fully embraced Japanese wellness culture. Wearing a yukata, I challenged myself to endure a 140-degree sauna, followed by a refreshing dip in an outdoor onsen. The experience was both physically and mentally refreshing, especially after a traditional Sabai Sabai Thai massage that left me feeling completely rejuvenated.

Tokyo

Tokyo was a whirlwind of excitement. One of my favorite experiences was participating in Kintsugi, the traditional art of repairing broken ceramics with gold. The process was intricate and time-consuming, but it taught me the beauty of embracing imperfections, both in objects and in life.

One critical lesson I learned about myself while practicing Kintsugi was that sometimes we go through processes or situations in life where we may think it’s taking too long, or that we’ve done enough. We may not realize that we need a little more patience, or a little more knowledge, or a little more of some other skill that can only be developed or strengthened if we continue to move forward and work a bit longer. If we move on too soon, we won’t be ready, nor will we be as successful or shine as bright! So...my lesson learned is to stay in the process if it’s not time yet. Don’t give up even if you’re getting tired. It will all make sense once you’ve moved through the process to your next level and can shine so bright!

Of course, no trip to Tokyo would be complete without visiting TeamLab Planets Tokyo Museum, which holds the Guinness World Record as the most visited museum from 2023-2024. I walked barefoot through a waterfall, marveled at digital flower displays, and splashed through water filled with colorful, animated koi fish. One room was filled with giant, inflatable balls that bounced around in sync with a stunning light show—it was pure joy and wonder.

Skytree Tower

After the museum, I stumbled upon Vegan Ramen Uzu, a rare find in Japan. The ramen was delicious, made with love and care, and it was one of the most memorable meals of my trip.

Shibuya District

I also visited Skytree Tower, the world’s tallest tower. Standing at the top and gazing out over Tokyo, I felt an overwhelming sense of accomplishment and fearlessness. It was a reminder of how far I had come—both literally and figuratively.

My exploration of the Shibuya District was equally exhilarating. The neon lights, bustling streets, and famous Shibuya Crossing felt like stepping into a different world. I spent hours discovering hidden gems in this vibrant area, and each corner revealed something new and exciting.

This trip was truly life-changing. Japan’s perfect blend of tradition and modernity, paired with the kindness of its people, made my journey unforgettable. I returned home with a deep appreciation for the culture, a newfound fearlessness, and a heart full of incredible memories.

I believe in manifestation, and I believe in speaking your dreams and goals into fruition. I always knew I had dreams to see the world, and I knew it would happen, but I did not know that being at ɫèapp would open that door for me. When I first began working here, it opened my eyes to greater: greater office culture and camaraderie; greater work experiences and career growth, and it showed me that ‘better’ was available and attainable if I only took the step to seek. This company has allowed me the opportunity to operate in a greater capacity and given me opportunities to continue to grow. Receiving this travel scholarship was another instance where ɫèapp aided in my growth and elevation. The GOH Travel Scholarship was founded in honor of founding partner, Gregory O. Hnedak, FAIA, whom I only met for the first time this week during my presentation. Yet, his legacy has forever impacted me…allowing me to release fear, experience the big ocean outside my small well, and inspire others to do the same.


Caption by Hyatt Recognized by ENR ‘Best Projects’

We’re thrilled to share that the Caption by Hyatt Beale Street Hotel, a project close to our hearts at ɫèapp, has received the prestigious !

This recognition celebrates the culmination of our passion for innovative design and the remarkable transformation of the historic Ellis Building into the captivating Caption by Hyatt. It’s a testament to our commitment to preserving history while infusing modern elements in the heart of Memphis.

We are immensely proud of our team’s dedication, navigating challenges like historic integration, supply shortages during the pandemic, and the revitalization of downtown Memphis. Our approach was to honor the historical value of the 1878 Ellis and Sons Ironworks, breathing new life into its structure and design.

This award is a testament to our collaborative spirit, working alongside Carlisle Corporation and an incredible team of professionals, including Flintco, Uzun+Case, Innovative Engineering Services LLC, Canup Engineering Inc., Catalyst Design Group, and JPA Inc., to achieve this milestone.

Together, we’ve created a distinctive, unique space that redefines hospitality in the heart of downtown Memphis.

 


Four Winds South Bend: Casino Foodservice

From

By Donna Boss

December 01, 2023

The owners of Four Winds Casino wanted to expand its gaming to accommodate more guests at peak times. Casino leadership also wanted guests to have a multiday experience that included staying at the hotel and visiting the restaurants and spa. In addition, a conference center was added to accommodate businesses and groups to host meetings and other events.

Four Winds Casino South Bend opened on Jan. 16, 2018. In 2022, the casino expanded to 98,000 square feet, and at the same time the gaming floor included 1,900 slot machines. On March 1, 2023, the hotel, outdoor pool, Cedar Spa, Edgewater Café, and Ribbon Town Conference and Event Center opened.

“The external and internal property design integrates tribal cultural references and symbolism with contemporary details to achieve the elegant lodge style now synonymous with the Four Winds brand,” says Paul Bell, AIA, principal/project manager, ɫèapp, Memphis, Tenn.

Four Winds Casino FoodService

Situated on the third floor, the Edgewater Café serves as the hotel’s main restaurant and provides food and beverages for the adjacent outdoor rooftop pool area.

“Natural light streams through clerestory windows and a retractable glass partition wall that connects to the pool atmosphere,” Bell says.

Glass-enclosed fireplaces extend from the glass partition wall into large skylights, providing guests with views of the towering hotel above and a vertical ribbon light show in the evening.

“The restaurant mingles a multicolored textural tile accent wall, stone, and wood detailing into the warm contemporary palette,” says Joseph La Vallee, lead interior designer, HBG.

One main challenge the Edgewater Café project team faced was fitting the kitchen below a hotel tower that required many structural columns for support. “Therefore, we aligned the traffic aisles for the servers and chefs with space between the columns,” says Trish Jass, senior operations project manager, Rippe Associates, Minneapolis.

“We also made use of some oddly spaced areas for the dish room and storage areas,” says Mike Wrase, senior project manager, Rippe Associates. “Another challenge, the exhaust hood in low ceilings, was addressed by installing an exhaust hood that is shallower and deeper than it would have been with higher ceilings.”

After menu items arrive at the hotel/event center dock, staff bring them through the back of the house to elevators and up to the third-floor kitchen, which contains a walk-in cooler, a walk-in freezer and dry storage. Storage areas reside at the back of the kitchen, so the food can flow forward toward the customers.

Staff take trash and materials that can be recycled from the third floor down the back-of-the-house elevators to the dock.

Four Winds Casino FoodService

 

 


Caption by Hyatt Wins 2023 Fay Jones Alumni Design Citation Award

ɫèapp is pleased to announce that the Caption by Hyatt Beale Street in Memphis, TN, is the recipient of the Citation Award for Historic Preservation / Interior Design from the 2023 competition.

The 136-room Caption by Hyatt Hotel in Memphis, Tennessee marries the 144-year old facade of the Wm. C. Ellis & Sons Machine Shop with a contemporary hotel design. The structure attempts to elevate the awareness of the Machine Shop facade to the status of artifact, in which the highly detailed ornamentation and lost construction technique, original to the year 1878, can be observed and appreciated by both the project's guests and the urban visitor.

The Machine Shop facade along Front Street also acts as a passive functional design element, aiding the lower public levels of the project as a shading device, minimizing the impact of the harsh morning sun. Situated behind the facade is an outdoor courtyard space in which guests can understand design relationships between the old and new elements, as the lower level fenestration and elevation heights of the new design are strategically articulated to mimic the historicity of the existing condition.

The public amenities include a coffee and liquor bar, grab and go market, gallery, outdoor urban courtyard, fitness center and meeting spaces. The first level of hotel rooms is elevated to the parapet of the existing Ellis facade, respecting both the historic elevations and allowing guests to peer into and over the facade deeper into the city.

Reflective of the brand’s eclectic contemporary-meets-urban industrial aesthetic, the interior features open light-filled spaces with a strong industrial flare. The property combines a layering of historic structural elements like exposed brick and original wooden beams, vibrant colors, textures, and hand-painted murals that nod to the storied city it calls home.

The heart of Caption by Hyatt Beale Street Memphis is Talk Shop, the brand’s re-imagined arrival experience where guests enjoy a multi-functional welcome area, all-daylounge and workspace, coffee shop, eatery, grab-and-go artisanal market and cocktail bar. Energy reverberates throughout the colorful space, which was designed to encourage social interaction– a place to eat, drink, and connect – inside, and outside at the adjoining beer garden courtyard. Open to the street’s pedestrian walkway, the expansive patio is uniquely housed within the building’s historic façade in a way that allows guests to fully engage with the active downtown neighborhood.

Eclectic personality and industrial-inspired design continue to the guestrooms, which feature re-purposed non-traditional materials, bold colors, contemporary fabric patterns, and quirky Memphis-inspired graphic wallcoverings. Modular closets and work-play lounges with accessible power outlets allow guests to work, eat and relax separatelyfrom the sleeping area.


A Solid Decade as a BD+C Hotel Design Powerhouse

ɫèapp is honored to share that the firm has once again been ranked among the Top 5 Hotel Design firms in the Nation by Building Design + Construction Magazine’s Giants 400 Survey. This milestone marks a decade of unwavering commitment to excellence, as a Top 10 ranked hotel design giant since 2012.

A Decade of Consistency:

For ten consecutive years, ɫèapp has been a force to be reckoned with in BD+C's Hotel Architecture Firms survey. Our consistent presence in the top 10 is a testament to our ability to navigate the evolving landscape of hospitality design trends, client expectations, and industry dynamics while maintaining an unwavering commitment to innovation and quality.

Navigating Change with Precision:

Hyatt Centric and Caption by Hyatt in Downtown Memphis, Tennessee

As a BD+C Hotel Design Giant, ɫèapp has not merely adapted to change; we've embraced it with precision. Our designs reflect an understanding of the dynamic nature of the industry, ensuring that each project remains not just relevant but a trailblazer in its own right.

Client Trust: The Cornerstone of Our "Design Giants" Status:

The Spa Tower at Winstar World Casino Resort Completed in 2023

At the core of our‘Design Giants’status is the trust and satisfaction of our clients. ɫèapp’s client-centric approach, a hallmark of our success, ensures that every project is a collaborative journey, resulting in designs that not only meet but exceed expectations.

Team Synergy and Expertise:

The journey to becoming a BD+C Hotel Design Giant is a collective effort, and our talented team at ɫèapp stands at the forefront. Architects, designers, and support staff collaborate seamlessly, bringing forth their expertise to craft spaces that tell unique stories and elevate the guest experience.

Looking Forward to the Next Decade:

As we celebrate a decade of excellence at the top of the BD+C Hotel Design Giant charts, ɫèapp is geared up for the next chapter. Our commitment to designing experiences remains steadfast, and we look ahead to setting new standards, exploring innovative avenues, and continuing to be a giant in hotel design.

 

 


Celebrating 9 Years of Excellence: ɫèapp Named Top Workplace

We are thrilled to announce that ɫèapp has once again secured its place among Memphis's Top Workplaces, marking an impressive 9-year streak of excellence! This recognition by the Commercial Appeal is a testament to our unwavering commitment to cultivating a workplace that values collaboration, innovation, and the well-being of our incredible team.

A Legacy of Workplace Excellence

For nearly a decade, ɫèapp has been honored as a top workplace, a distinction that reflects the dedication and passion of our outstanding team members. This achievement is a source of immense pride for us, and it speaks volumes about the positive and inclusive culture we've worked hard to create.

Thank You to Our Amazing Team

Our success is a direct result of the hard work and talent that each team member brings to ɫèapp. We extend our deepest gratitude to our exceptional employees who contribute their skills, creativity, and enthusiasm every day. Your commitment is the cornerstone of our success, and we are grateful to have such a remarkable team driving our continued growth.

Recognition from the Commercial Appeal

We are honored to receive this recognition from the Commercial Appeal, a respected source for news and insights in our community. Being listed among Memphis's Top Workplaces is not just an accolade for us—it's a celebration of the positive work environment we've collectively built.

A Commitment to Continued Excellence

As we celebrate this milestone, we are more committed than ever to maintaining a workplace that inspires, supports, and empowers our team members. Our journey doesn't end here; it's a continuous pursuit of excellence, growth, and creating a workplace where everyone feels valued.

Join Us in the Celebration

Join us in celebrating this incredible achievement! Follow our journey on social media, and stay tuned for insights into what makes ɫèapp a top workplace in Memphis.

Thank you to our dedicated team, the Commercial Appeal, and our community for supporting us on this remarkable journey. Here's to many more years of success, collaboration, and a thriving workplace culture at ɫèapp!


Hospitality Design Giants: ɫèapp Shines

Ranked among the Top 5 Hospitality Design Giants in the Nation by ɫèapp continues to soar.

With a record-breaking 552 AEC firms contributing data to BD+C's 2023 Giants 400 Report, our spot in the prestigious list showcases our unwavering commitment to excellence in the realm of hospitality design.

Over the years, we've steadily ascended the ranks of the Top 10 Hospitality Design Giants, going from #7 in 2020 to an impressive #5 in 2023. Our journey signifies our remarkable history and consistent success.

A History of Excellence

Founded in 1979, ɫèapp has remained a premier hospitality design firm. Our team, comprising more than 100 professionals specializing in architecture and interior design, excels in creating exceptional hotel designs, resorts, and gaming and entertainment venues.

We've contributed to over 30,000 hotel rooms and have developed more than 35 million square feet of gaming and entertainment spaces, food and beverage establishments, hotels, conference facilities, event spaces, and retail areas in the last two decades. Our enduring influence underscores our commitment to setting industry standards in hospitality design.

Exploring Recent Projects

Our most recent work consists of a diverse array of unique hospitality design experiences, with each one showcasing our ability to seamlessly blend creativity with functionality.

  1. Winstar World Casino & Resort: The Spa Tower and Winstar Spa

Winstar World Casino & Resort - Spa Tower Lobby

Located in South-Central Oklahoma, this 16-story, 304-key Spa Tower radiates contemporary elegance and invites guests to a 230,000 square foot realm of tranquility and indulgence.

  1. Cascades Pool Complex at Winstar World Casino & Resort

Cascades Pool Complex at Winstar World Casino & Resort

Spanning over 5 ½ acres, this meticulously designed pool complex offers a variety of pools, private cabanas, and amenities for relaxation and entertainment.

  1. Four Winds South Bend Casino, Hotel and Spa

Four Winds South Bend Casino, Hotel and Spa

This 23-story glass hotel stands as a testament to the Pokagon Tribe's rich heritage. The 317-key hotel, 82-suite hotel, Cedar Spa, and conference and events expansion celebrate culture and the natural elements of native lands.

  1. Caption by Hyatt Beale Street

Caption by Hyatt Beale Street

Designed in Memphis, Tennessee, this upscale Caption by Hyatt hotel offers a dynamic hospitality experience with a neighborhood feel, reflecting the spirit of the community.

Our consistent presence on the Building Design+Construction Giants 400 list is not just a reflection of our past success but a promise of what lies ahead. Our commitment to delivering excellence in hospitality design remains unwavering.


Chris Wood Named an Emerging Leader of Gaming 40 Under 40

Chris Wood, a lead interior designer and key member of ɫèapp, has been honored as an Emerging Leader of Gaming in the prestigious 40 Under 40 program. Organized by The Innovation Group and Global Gaming Business magazine, this recognition celebrates outstanding professionals under the age of 40 who have already left a significant mark on the casino gaming sector. Chris Wood's contributions and leadership exemplify the innovation and excellence driving the industry forward, making him a deserving recipient of this esteemed distinction.

2024 EMERGING LEADERS OF GAMING 40 UNDER 40 ANNOUNCED

LAS VEGAS – The Innovation Group, organizers of the Emerging Leaders of Gaming (ELG) program, and Global Gaming Business magazine (GGB) have announced the honorees of the Emerging Leaders of Gaming 40 Under 40, a program that recognizes professionals under the age of 40 already making significant impacts in the casino gaming industry.

The honorees were selected from a record-breaking number of nominations solicited from the broader gaming industry, and reviewed by an esteemed selection committee, including: Justin Carter, Senior Vice President, Regional Operations, PENN Entertainment; Kirsten Clark, Executive Director, International Association of Gaming Advisors (IAGA); Alex Dixon, President & CEO, Q Casino and DRA; Daron Dorsey, Executive Director, Association of Gaming Equipment Manufacturers (AGEM); Alan Feldman, Distinguished Fellow in Responsible Gaming, International Gaming Institute at UNLV; Kelly Hatch, Executive Director, Global Gaming Women (GGW); and Sheila Morago, COO and Partner, Trilogy Group.

From professionals across commercial and tribal operations, to supplier-side innovators and professionals driving new industry segments, the latest class of honorees reflects a diverse cross-section of gaming and an industry in evolution. “It’s an honor to help identify and showcase the remarkable individuals driving our industry into the future,” said Michael Soll, president of The Innovation Group. "The gaming industry will prosper and thrive because of the impact of young and talented people," continued Roger Gros, publisher of Global Gaming Business magazine, "The innovation and creativity they bring with them is truly the lifeblood of gaming. Our congratulations to all the honorees."

 

 

 


Alexandra Milkovich Named a 2023 Influencer of Architecture & Design

Our warmest congratulations go out to Alexandra Milkovich, IIDA, NCIDQ, an Associate and Senior Interior Designer at ɫèapp San Diego, for her recent recognition as a 2023 Influencer of Architecture and Design by the San Diego Business Journal!

 

Alexandra Milkovich, IIDA, NCIDQ, is Associate / Senior Interior Designer at ɫèapp. An award-winning hospitality and entertainment industry market leader and an enthusiastic member of San Diego’s design community, Alexandra was a 2022 ‘40 Under 40’ Emerging Leader of Gaming and served on the 2023 SpArc thought leader roundtable. Over her 14+ year career, she has crafted an impressive project portfolio, including Sycuan Casino Resort, Caesars Entertainment, and the Premier Rock & Brews Casino and restaurant.

Spotlight on Alexandra Milkovich: A Rising Star in Interior Design

A Passionate Design Enthusiast

SDBJ InfluencerAlexandra Milkovich is not only a talented designer but also a passionate member of San Diego's design community. She's actively engaged in thought leadership, serving on SpArc Interiors' industry roundtable in 2023 and contributing her expertise to the Southern California Chapter of the

A Rising Star in Hospitality and Entertainment Design

ELG Top 40 U 40Alexandra's impressive journey includes being named a '40 Under 40' Emerging Leader of Gaming in 2022 by Global Gaming Business magazine. Her influence extends to high-profile casino and hotel projects, as well as unique food and beverage venues both locally and nationally. Alexandra's dedication to understanding restaurant operations and product design through food blogging sets her apart in the industry.

Designing Experiences Worth Remembering

 

Eagle Mountain Casino

One of Alexandra's standout accomplishments was leading the interior design of the $226 million transformation of Sycuan Casino Resort in El Cajon, CA, where she brought four-diamond resort elegance to life. Her creativity also shines through at venues like Rank + File, a vintage-industrial craft brew house. Alexandra's expertise has not only elevated gaming establishments but also shaped the brand concepts for the premiere Rock & Brews Casino, Caesars Entertainment properties, and Eagle Mountain Casino, where she integrated cultural elements to create unique and targeted spaces.

Service Beyond Design

Alexandra's commitment extends beyond her design work. She's a sought-after expert, having served on the Practicum Item Writing Committee of the Council for Interior Design Qualification (CIDQ), where she played a pivotal role in shaping the NCIDQ Practicum Exam. She's also been actively involved with the International Interior Design Association (IIDA) in both the Southern California and Dallas Chapters, earning recognition for her groundbreaking designs.

Alexandra’s dedication to her craft, commitment to thought leadership, and impressive portfolio make her a well-deserving recipient of the 2023 Influencer of Architecture and Design award from the San Diego Business Journal!