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.”
We’re excited to announce that two of our standout spa projects, the WinStar Spa at WinStar World Resort & Casino in Thackerville, OK, and the Cedar Spa at Four Winds Casino Hotel & Spa in South Bend, IN, are highlighted in the 4th edition of the Global Wellness Institute’s , setting the industry standard in spa design.
The WinStar Spa is particularly notable for housing the largest hydrotherapy tub/pool in the U.S., exemplifying innovation and HBG’s commitment to wellness-focused design. This recognition by the Global Wellness Institute underscores our role in setting new standards for luxury spa and wellness experiences across the country.
Wellness industry specialist Don Genders, of , was instrumental in creating this comprehensive guide, which has become a key resource for developers, architects, designers, and builders interested in incorporating hydrothermal wellness elements into their projects. As spa and wellness facilities continue to grow in demand, the updated edition provides essential insights on integrating features such as saunas, steam rooms, and cold plunges into both residential and commercial spaces.
We are proud that ɫèapp's work is helping shape the future of wellness design and are thrilled to be included in this global resource, available now for complimentary download. Whether it's the large-scale hydrotherapy features at WinStar or the tranquil luxury of Cedar Spa, our team’s projects continue to define the industry standard for spa and wellness environments.
For more details, and explore how hydrothermal spa elements can elevate wellness experiences in any space.
ɫèapp and our spectacular WinStar World Casino Resort project recently took center stage on with hospitality industry experts and personalities, Glenn Haussman and Anthony Melchiorri (host of the Travel Channel’s Hotel Impossible). During the episode, HBG's Rob Jurbergs, AIA, Principal and Senior Architectural Designer, and Ray Mabry, Principal and HBG Dallas Office Leader, revealed fascinating insights into the design and creation of this iconic resort in Thackerville, Oklahoma, just 90 minutes from the booming Dallas-Ft. Worth area. Catch up on all the behind-the-scenes details that make WinStar a must-see destination!
Since 2017, No Vacancy News has been the go-to source for the hotel industry, providing actionable insights, expert interviews, and educational content through its podcasts, videos, and live branded experiences. Hosted by Glenn Haussman, a leading voice in hospitality, No Vacancy Live! has been recognized as the #1 hospitality show by the International Hospitality Institute since the award’s inception. We were honored to join Glenn to share our experiences with the casino resort’s design and our collaboration with the Chickasaw Nation to create a world-class destination.
A Look Inside WinStar
WinStar, one of the most recognized gaming resort destinations in the country, offers an unparalleled guest experience through its luxurious amenities and entertainment spaces. In their podcast interview, Rob Jurbergs, Principal and Architectural Designer at ɫèapp, and Ray Mabry, Principal and Dallas Office Leader, highlight the resort’s design evolution and how HBG, with over 45 years of casino resort expertise, established the property's architectural identity.
Key elements of the project include:
Lucas Oil Live: A 6,500-seat, multi-purpose performance venue for concerts, boxing, MMA events, banquets, and more. The space includes a VIP area with a private lounge, full bar, and kitchen.
304-room Hotel: Offering guests a modern and comfortable stay, the hotel's interiors are inspired by natural tones and earthy elements reflective of the Red River region, featuring rich woodsy designs and warm rust orange accents.
Cascades Pool Area: This signature outdoor area includes multiple pool tiers and food and beverage options, making it a dynamic hub of activity and relaxation. The distinctive sundial-like roof design enhances the ambiance and complements the open, airy environment.
Strategic Location and Market Positioning
Rob and Ray also discussed the importance of WinStar’s location in attracting guests from the growing Dallas-Fort Worth area. Just a short drive from one of the nation’s largest metropolitan areas, WinStar provides a sought-after escape, drawing visitors for its high-quality amenities and entertainment offerings.
One of the venue’s notable successes is the Lucas Oil Live performance venue, which has hosted some of the biggest names in rock and country music. The venue was even nominated for Casino of the Year-Theater by the Academy of Country Music, solidifying WinStar’s position as a premier entertainment destination.
Thoughtful Design and Guest Experience
Inspired by the natural beauty of the Red River region, ɫèapp’s architectural and interior design teams brought elements of the local landscape into the resort’s design. From the organic shapes and curvilinear forms used in the building’s layout to the earthy color palettes and natural materials, every detail is crafted to create an inviting, comfortable atmosphere.
The V-shaped design of the hotel maximizes guest views while creating a sense of embrace, and the wind-blocking structure enhances comfort in the outdoor areas. The intentional design of the pool area offers guests multiple experiences, from relaxed lounging to lively social spaces, all centered around the beautiful landscape.
Tune in to the No Vacancy News podcast episode with Rob Jurbergs and Ray Mabry to hear more about the incredible design journey behind WinStar World Casino Resort. Learn how strategic design decisions, collaboration, and attention to detail have transformed this resort into a world-class destination.
Celebrating its first full year in operation, the Tule River Tribe's relocation of its Eagle Mountain Casino from the original reservation location to a more accessible and visible site in Porterville, California, represents a significant milestone in the tribe’s history.Driven by a blend of strategic, economic, and site motivations, the casino relocation became a transformative initiative that unlocked new opportunities for community growth and market differentiation through cultural integration.Featuring architectural and interior design by ɫèapp, the new Eagle Mountain Casino is well-positioned to capture vast market opportunities from local customers and traffic traveling among the region’s major cities.
Drawing from unique regional elements and the tribe’s rich cultural heritage, the design team at ɫèapp set out to create an entertainment escape with an authentic sense of character that connects people to place. The new Eagle Mountain Casino provides over 100,000 square feet of amenity features that include 1,750 slots, 20 table games, multiple dining venues including the Ember center bar, the Redwood Taphouse, The River Steakhouse, the Acorn Diner, Yokuts Coffee House, and the Cedar Food Court, as well as a 2,000-seat event center. These amenities not only enhance the casino's entertainment appeal, but also address community wishes, such as meeting a need for a large venue space that could cater to sporting and entertainment events.
Inspired by relaxed lodge aesthetics, the casino’s design expression exudes a sense of comfort, approachability, and hospitality. The tribe’s indigenous homeland is where the Great Sequoia tree grows. The Sequoia’s canopy, trunk, and roots became inspirational elements to link the story of the tribe's culture and heritage to the design aesthetics, from the arrival experience to the art, patterns, and imagery within. Soaring vertical features recall the majesty of the Giant Sequoia and the Golden Eagle. Entry water features and flowing forms recall the winding Tule River and organic curves of nature.
Inside, guests are greeted by a grand redwood carving of the tribal Big Foot pictograph, known as “Big Foot Hairy Man”, symbolizing the tribe's deep-rooted traditions. Carved by Bill Farmer, a Tule River Tribal Member, the material for the Big Foot carving came from a giant Redwood that had fallen across one of the roads on the Tule Reservation.
Historical tribal basket patterns adorn custom pendent light fixtures, ceilings soffits, and custom terrazzo floor medallions, serving as a wayfinding guide toward the entertainment offerings within.
The Flight of the Butterfly and Quail Tufts is a prominent Tule River tribal motif that intertwines through the casino culminating at the Ember Bar ceiling soffit with a silhouette mountain design that mimics the regional landscape. The vertical Ember bar design represents the elements of wood and fire, symbolizing hospitality, a place where the community can gather, relax, and socialize.
The ɫèapp team is honored to have worked alongside the Tule River Tribe since 2015 in the design and delivery of the new Eagle Mountain Casino. Throughout the process, Tule River stakeholders immersed HBG designers in tribal culture and heritage research and graciously embraced conceptual storytelling as it extends into the architectural and interior design aesthetic. This personal integration creates a one-of-a-kind, memorable experience for Eagle Mountain Casino guests. #Eagle Mountain's Successful Year One
Located in Thackerville, OK, WinStar World Casino and Resort attracts visitors from Oklahoma, North Texas, and the bustling Dallas metro area, just 90 minutes away. This strategic location has fueled WinStar's growth, tapping into the vibrant urban market of one of the country’s fastest-growing regions. Recently, WinStar completed its largest non-gaming expansion in the property's 30-year history.
Expansive New Amenities at WinStar World Casino and Resort
The new expansion covers nearly 20 acres of event, pool, hotel, and spa amenities, all opened within the past year.
“The new 6,500-seat Lucas Oil Live, the 304-key Spa Tower, WinStar Spa, and the five-acre Cascades pool complex were all developed in response to market and guest preferences," says Jack Parkinson, President of WinStar. "Our aim is to create a well-rounded resort environment catering to traditional gamers and guests seeking immersive non-gaming experiences.”
From Bingo Hall to Global Hospitality Leader
Originally opened as a bingo hall in 1994 and expanded in 2003 as WinStar Casino, the property has continually evolved. Owned and operated by the Chickasaw Nation, WinStar offers over 10,500 electronic games, 100 table games, and more than 1,700 guestrooms, earning the title of 'The Biggest Casino in the World.'
“Our strategic branding partnerships, like with Lucas Oil, and our long-standing design collaboration with ɫèapp, have shaped WinStar's innovative evolution,” adds Parkinson.
Lucas Oil Live, a 6,500-seat venue, has been nominated nine times for the American Country Music Awards 'Casino of the Year - Theater.' "Country music remains a highlight of our performance lineup," Parkinson explains. "Lucas Oil Live offers an enhanced event experience for our customers."
Designed with the energy of rock and country music, Lucas Oil Live features a state-of-the-art audio-visual system and amphitheater-style seating. “The vibrant design and advanced technology make every performance unforgettable,” says Rob Jurbergs, Principal Architectural Designer at ɫèapp.
Session House Gastropub and VIP Amenities
Session House Gastropub offers pre-and post-event dining, connecting the event center excitement with the serene Spa Tower and WinStar Spa amenities. The exclusive club seating level, complete with a private lounge, full bar, and kitchen, enhances the guest experience.
The new 230,000 square foot Spa Tower, featuring a 26,000 square foot European-style spa, has become a popular destination for wellness enthusiasts. “The spa offers communal experiences, including a VIP Party Suite and coed aqua thermal area with a hydrotherapy tub and ambient experience shower,” says Landon Shockey, Lead Interior Designer at ɫèapp.
Spanning over five acres, Cascades pool complex offers a vibrant outdoor retreat. “The design features wading and lounge pools, semi-private cabanas, and bar pavilions inspired by ocean currents,” says Jurbergs. The upper tier is reserved for VIP guests, offering exclusive amenities like a private kitchen, dining area, and pool entry.
Relentless ɫèapp on Unforgettable Experiences
“Our focus on creating unforgettable experiences at Cascades, Lucas Oil Live, and the WinStar Spa reflects our commitment to exceeding guest expectations,” says Parkinson. “The national attention we've received is a testament to our vision and continuous innovation.”
For more information on WinStar World Casino and Resort's non-gaming amenities, visit .
Welcome to the newly redefined Atlantis Casino at Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas. ɫèapp is thrilled to have designed this casino , marrying contemporary brand aesthetics with the timeless charm of this iconic resort destination.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ATLANTIS PARADISE ISLAND UNVEILS $150 MILLION RESORT-WIDE RENOVATION Redefined Atlantis Casino, The Royal Guestrooms, Paranza, and Bar Sol Debut at the Iconic Resort
PARADISE ISLAND, BAHAMAS (July 9, 2024) – Atlantis Paradise Island, the most iconic resort destination in the Bahamas and the Caribbean, has completed a $150 million resort-wide transformation, including updates to the casino, guestrooms, restaurants and lounges. The resort unveiled refashioned guestrooms at The Royal, Atlantis’ iconic towers; an entirely redefined Atlantis Casino; and Paranza, a new restaurant at The Cove, where the esteemed Michelin-starred chef Michael White brings his culinary mastery to the table. The updates emulate the ethos of Atlantis and include custom fixtures and design details evocative of the ocean and ecosystems found throughout the Bahamas. Other additions include Bar Sol, Cleito’s private gaming, Silan, Perch, the Caribbean’s first Shake Shack, FIELDTRIP, Cartier, Thistle, and coming soon, Christian Louboutin and Paradise Links mini-golf course.
“Atlantis continuously elevates the guest experience, and recent developments at The Royal, Paranza and the Atlantis Casino provide guests with upgraded, modern toucheswhile retaining the resort’s integral identity that visitors know and love,” said Audrey Oswell, President and Managing Director of Atlantis. “Atlantis’ experiential-driven programming allows our guests and visitors to create lifelong memories while visiting the resort and the Bahamas. The new designs throughout Atlantis demonstrate our commitment to providing an unsurpassed vacation experience.”
The Redefined Atlantis Casino Introduces a New Look and Bar Sol
The 85-table, 700-game casino, one of Atlantis’ landmark features, is home to four instantly recognizable one-of-a-kind glass sculptures by internationally renowned artist Dale Chihuly. The Sun and The Moon glass installations were created specifically for the Atlantis Casino 25 years ago, uniting color, light, form, and space to deliver a uniquely immersive experience.
By re-lighting the glass sculptures and minimizing the surrounding structure, the new design interacts harmoniously with light and space, which Chihuly is known for in his work.
The custom carpet features 26 shades, drawing on the jewel tones seen in the casino’s recognizable art. Deeply saturated hues and gold accents, combined with shimmering textures and flowing lines, echo the refractions of the sea, adding a sense of place and creating a cohesive, sophisticated look.
The beloved murals throughout the casino have been artfully restored, and nearby light features have been updated to give the spaces a modern yet classic feel incorporating Atlantis’ signature design elements. The ceilings, previously covered by canopies, are now open, creating a more spacious and airier atmosphere with a clear view of the entire casino.
The central Moon Bar inside the casino has been upgraded with a circular deck, allowing guests to take a break from the action or step up to overlook the casino floor.
The Atlantis Casino has recently opened Bar Sol, inspired by the late Sol Kerzner's passion for Bahamian artists, music, and entertainment. It offers a stylish and sophisticated atmosphere where guests can enjoy a well-crafted cocktail and dance beneath a raised stage and DJ booth. The centerpiece of Bar Sol is a restored Chihuly chandelier that exudes warm gold hues, creating a unique ambiance complemented by the venue's lineup of nightly live music performances.
Read the Full Atlantis Press Release Announcement>>
For more information about Atlantis Paradise Island, please visit .
In the evolving landscape of tribal gaming, non-gaming amenities have emerged as significant profit centers, enhancing the overall guest experience and driving new revenue streams. As the industry shifts towards providing comprehensive entertainment experiences, ɫèapp stands at the forefront, partnering with tribal clients to innovate and tailor non-gaming amenities to meet local market demands.
WinStar World Casino & Resort: Setting New Standards
One of the most notable projects by ɫèapp is the WinStar World Casino & Resort in Oklahoma. Nathan Peak, Principal and Practice Leader for ɫèapp, underscores the critical role of non-gaming amenities in reinforcing overall revenues. At WinStar, ɫèapp has introduced several key non-gaming elements, including the Lucas Oil Live facility. This 6,500-seat venue, offering optimal acoustics and aesthetics, caters to the Dallas/Fort Worth market and hosts top-tier performers like Miranda Lambert and Rod Stewart. This project sets a new standard for live entertainment in the region, enhancing the guest experience with VIP event lounge suites and a dynamic LED-lit concourse.
Adjacent to Lucas Oil Live is the Session House Gastropub, seamlessly connecting the entertainment venue to the new 16-story, 304-key contemporary Spa Tower hotel. This integration exemplifies how ɫèapp leverages non-gaming amenities to create holistic entertainment environments that attract a diverse array of guests.
Eagle Mountain Casino: Cultural Sensitivity and Unique Design
ɫèapp’s commitment to integrating tribal culture and heritage into their projects is evident in the new 105,000-square-foot Eagle Mountain Casino operated by the Tule River Tribe in Porterville, California. Nathan Peak highlights how the design reflects the tribe's cultural symbols, with soaring vertical features recalling the giant sequoia and golden eagle, and flowing forms inspired by the Tule River. This thoughtful incorporation of cultural elements creates a distinctive and immersive environment for guests, setting the casino apart in the competitive market.
Expanding Horizons at Gun Lake Casino
At the Gun Lake Casino in Michigan, ɫèapp is pushing the envelope with the Wawye Oasis, a multi-purpose pool and event center atrium complex. This innovative space will offer a climate-controlled indoor environment shaped like a large sun dial, maintaining a cozy 82-degree climate year-round. The versatility of this space, transitioning from a resort pool oasis by day to a dynamic performance complex by night, exemplifies ɫèapp’s ability to create multifunctional amenities that maximize return on investment.
Enhancing Convenience with Parking Solutions
Parking facilities are often overlooked but critical components of non-gaming amenities. Nathan Peak emphasizes the importance of parking structures for guest convenience, particularly in regions with adverse weather conditions. ɫèapp’s strategic planning ensures that these facilities not only protect guests but also provide quick and easy access to the gaming floor, thereby enhancing the overall guest experience and contributing to the property's profitability.
Conclusion: Innovating for the Future
ɫèapp continues to lead the way in integrating non-gaming amenities into tribal casinos, recognizing their crucial role in attracting diverse guests and extending their stay. By blending cultural sensitivity with innovative design and strategic planning, ɫèapp helps tribal casinos create unique, immersive experiences that drive revenue and set new industry standards. As the market for non-gaming amenities grows, ɫèapp remains dedicated to partnering with tribal clients to deliver tailored solutions that meet their specific revenue objectives and enrich the guest experience.
We are thrilled to announce a transformative project that promises to elevate the gaming industry and the regional economy of Beloit, Wisconsin. After years of planning and anticipation, the Ho-Chunk Nation is set to break ground on the new $405 millionHo-Chunk Gaming Beloit casino complex in fall 2024. As the chosen design firm for this landmark project, ɫèapp is honored to bring our expertise in hospitality design to this exciting development.
A Milestone in the Making
The journey to this point has been long and complex, marked by the crucial approval from the Bureau of Indian Affairs in May 2022. This decision allowed for the construction of the casino on a 33-acre site at Willowbrook and Colley roads, near Interstate 39-90. The approval is the result of extensive federal processes, discussions, and negotiations between tribal representatives, local authorities, and community stakeholders. It symbolizes a significant step forward for the Ho-Chunk Nation and the city of Beloit.
Vision for a Comprehensive Entertainment Experience
Robert Mudd, Executive Director of Business for the Ho-Chunk Nation, shared his enthusiasm: “We are thrilled to advance our development plans in time for a fall groundbreaking, moving forward with the final design by ɫèapp, the infrastructure work and construction. In the gaming market, our competitors are stepping up, as they should. Each offers a unique product, and that’s our aim too.”
The development will feature a 1,500-to-1,800-slot casino with 44 table games, an 18-story, 300-key hotel tower, a multi-purpose convention center, and multiple food and beverage venues. Additionally, sports betting facilities will be available, thanks to an agreement between the Ho-Chunk Nation and the state of Wisconsin. This comprehensive array of amenities underscores the project's commitment to providing an unparalleled entertainment experience.
Economic Impact and Community Benefits
The construction of Ho-Chunk Gaming Beloit is expected to span 18 to 24 months, creating an estimated 3,000 direct and indirect jobs. Once operational, the complex will offer around 1,500 permanent positions. The economic benefits extend further with revenue-sharing agreements anticipated to provide up to $3 million annually to Beloit and Rock County, supporting local infrastructure improvements and community services.
Beyond its economic contributions, the new complex will significantly enhance Beloit’s tourism and hospitality sectors. The expansive convention center and other amenities will attract business conventions, expos, concerts, and more, positioning Beloit as a regional hub for entertainment and commerce.
A Legacy of Excellence
Ho-Chunk Gaming Beloit will be the seventh casino owned and operated by the Ho-Chunk Nation in Wisconsin, joining a prestigious lineup including Ho-Chunk Gaming Black River Falls, Madison, Nekoosa, Tomah, Wisconsin Dells, and Wittenberg.
ɫèapp is proud to continue our longstanding partnership with the Ho-Chunk Nation. Our expertise in designing high-profile large-scale resort destinations is exemplified in our previous projects for the Ho-Chunk Gaming brand, including expansions and renovations at Wisconsin Dells, Black River Falls, and Wittenberg. These projects, completed in 2018 and 2019, set the stage for the innovative and comprehensive design approach we bring to Ho-Chunk Gaming Beloit.
Looking Ahead
As we prepare for groundbreaking in fall 2024, ɫèapp is excited to contribute to a project that promises to be a game-changer for the Ho-Chunk Nation, Beloit, and the broader Wisconsin region. Stay tuned for more updates as we embark on this journey to shape the future of gaming and entertainment in Beloit.
The casino industry has witnessed a significant transformation in slot floor design, driven by trends in game design and economic changes. The days of tightly packed rows of slot machines are fading, giving way to more spacious, creatively designed floors that enhance both functionality and guest experience.
ɫèapp's Vision
Kevin Burke, Senior Architectural Designer for ɫèapp, highlights how the pandemic catalyzed this change. "Covid did a great thing in a way by creating this openness to the gaming floor," Burke states. The emphasis shifted from the sheer number of games to the overall size and openness of the gaming floor, allowing for better spacing and a more pleasant environment. Burke emphasizes the importance of careful planning with clients to achieve these open spaces and amenities, integrating gaming with a more holistic entertainment experience.
Enhanced Guest Experience
Burke further notes, "The last 10 years have seen an entertainment focus, with an elevated guest experience on the gaming floor." ɫèapp's approach involves crafting a story and a strong concept that starts from the street and permeates throughout the property, including the gaming floor. This evolution from the previously smaller, tighter, and darker spaces to more open and engaging environments allows for better wayfinding, sightlines, and connection to surrounding amenities.
Adapting to New Machine Designs
Changes in slot machine designs have also influenced floor layouts. Modern machines are taller and more immersive, requiring adjustments in floor design to maintain a balance between visibility and player experience. "We’ve been going through what we need as our dimensions for gaming floors. It’s a much different-looking machine than it was even a few years ago," Burke explains. ɫèapp aims to create flexible spaces that can adapt to various layout options, catering to both privacy and social interaction needs.
Future Trends
Looking ahead, Burke sees a continued trend towards integrating entertainment directly on the casino floor.
"Entertainment offerings on the casino floor will be a key focus. Stadium gaming is here to stay," he says.
As sports betting expands, there's potential for further blending of sports with gaming experiences, creating a more dynamic and engaging environment for patrons.
The Memphis Business Journal recognizes Emily Marshall ɫèapp Interior Design Leader as a "Women Who Lead Design" Honoree.
Emily Marshall is proudly decisive about her biggest career achievement. It “undoubtedly lies in the growth and development of ɫèapp’s interior design group.” Over her 14 years with the firm, she helped grow the team from four to 21 pros, calling it a rewarding endeavor. She says that’s given HBG a “unique edge in our integrated resort, entertainment, and hospitality market sectors.”
She adds that what also sets HBG apart is the teams’ collaborative approach of its architects and interior designers working hand-in-hand from the inception of projects.
Emily is focused on a few big professional goals, one of which is expanding the interior design team within its national offices, especially Dallas. Soon, she’ll work on designing a new Marriott hotel at the 100 North Main development. And she’s “profoundly invested in the holistic development” of team members — seeing their successes gives Emily pride and joy.
On trends: “One of the most exciting trends I’m seeing in our industry is the emergence of experiential and immersive food and beverage/restaurant designs. These spaces are meticulously crafted with attention to detail, where every design selection is thoughtfully curated and resonates purposefully with intention. What I find particularly captivating are the rooftop patio restaurants, uniquely designed to blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces. These spaces offer a harmonious environment that engages all the senses, creating unforgettable experiences for guests.”