From Neon to Natural: The Use of Light in Casinos
Approved for AIA CE credit – 1.5 Learning Unit
After growing up in the hospitality industry, Gillian Wynn’s passion has become biophilic design, the concept used within the building industry to increase connectivity to the natural environment through direct or indirect nature. Roger Thomas, Emeritus EVP Design Wynn Resorts, Interior Hall of Fame 2015, will speak to the evolution of light in architecture and design in Las Vegas, citing the buildings he designed, including the Mirage, Treasure Island, Bellagio, Wynn, and Encore. Roger will speak to the evolution of light in Las Vegas resorts and casinos over the decades. Todd-Avery Lenahan, President, and Chief Design Officer for Wynn Design Development, will add to the conversation about contemporary resort design and how light affects the visitor’s experience.
“When I was 17 and started my career in casino design, I was told “no natural light, no clocks, and no birds.” This was the dictum of designing the most important and lucrative public spaces in Nevada until Steve Wynn created the Mirage with its tropical atrium. The discoveries we made about the human attraction to natural light was revelatory and changed my design philosophy and the course of our casino design forever. I’m excited to discuss this development and many more with my esteemed colleagues Gillian Wynn and Todd Avery Lenahan at Duck Duck Shed.” – Roger Thomas