Jan 29, 2026
Regional casino resorts don’t win anymore by adding square footage — they win by designing experiences that keep guests longer and spending more. That’s the focus of this episode of #NoVacancyNews.
I’m joined by Kelly Devine, Principal and Partner, and Emily Marshall, Principal and Interior Design Leader at HBG Design, and guest host Dr. Suzanne Bagnera to talk about the evolution of regional gaming resorts and what operators should be paying attention to right now.
We use Gun Lake Casino Resort in Michigan as the case study, breaking down how design decisions directly affect length of stay, guest behavior, operational efficiency, and profitability. This isn’t about pretty spaces for Instagram — it’s about building resorts that actually perform.
What stood out to me is how intentionally HBG starts with operations first. They design the engine before the body, which explains why these projects drive measurable business results instead of just visual impact.
We cover:
🎰: Why regional casinos now compete with Vegas-style destination
resorts
🏨: How hotel design influences gaming behavior and length of
stay
🧠: Designing rooms guests enjoy — without keeping them away from
the casino
🧹: Why housekeeping flow, durability, and turnover time matter more
than finishes
🎤: Programming spaces to keep locals and repeat guests coming
back
📈: How smart design directly ties to revenue growth
For hotels and casino operators, this conversation shows how design becomes a business tool, not a vanity project.
Special thanks to
Actabl —
Actabl gives you the power to
profit.
Visit Actabl.com.