16 Jun Spotted: Speakeasy Collection at Hollywood Park Casino by JCJ Architecture

We spoke with Kaylee Miner of JCJ Architecture about the installment of our Speakeasy carpet collection designed by Stacy Garcia for Brintons. The carpet is used in the new Hollywood Park Casino in Inglewood, California to create a sense of luxury, decadence, and lavish self-indulgence.

The new casino houses three extravagant bars, 125 card game tables, and a variety of dining options. Kaylee tells us why she chose our Speakeasy carpets for this project and how it influenced the re-branding and logo of the the new Hollywood Park Casino.

What was the inspiration/story behind this project? 

In its heyday in the 1940s, Hollywood Park Casino & Racetrack in Inglewood, California was a destination for the rat pack and the likes of Cary Grant, Liz Taylor, Katherine Hepburn, Rita Hayworth and more. It was a place to “see and be seen.” Our design for the new Hollywood Park Casino, aptly named “The Cary Grant Pavilion,” is a sophisticated and glamorous homage to this era with a modern spin.

The interiors were inspired by distinctive, mid-century modern fashion, which was prevalent at the racetrack during its prime.  The underlying theme of the casino is a “dance” between a man and woman, impeccably dressed in high fashion of the period.

Women’s clothing was elaborate, patterned and fluid, contrasted with men’s structured and tailored attire. The juxtaposition between dynamic patterns and tailored elements is found throughout the property.

What does your creative process look like?

I like to begin with a story that weaves our clients’ expectations with significant design themes and elements. For the Hollywood Park Casino project, we carefully cultivated inspirational imagery of authentic mid-century fashion and icons such as Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire.  The elements and personalities featured in this “gallery” shaped the direction of the interiors.

Where do you find design inspiration?

I like to begin by thoroughly researching the history, context and community of the project. I draw a lot of design inspiration from the culture, background and landscape surrounding the property.

What drew your team to our Speakeasy carpet collection?

We first came upon the gaming floor carpet, which perfectly showcased the story of the “dance” as viewed from above. In our eyes, the pattern perfectly illustrated a woman’s dress spinning among the linear movements of the dance.  The other patterns fell perfectly into place soon thereafter.

You had mentioned that the carpet collection played a major role in the re-branding and logo of Hollywood Park Casino. Can you explain the story behind this?

Yes! The graphic designer gained inspiration through our finishes. They saw the carpet as a poker chip spinning on its side and thus birthed the logo. It’s remarkable how the same pattern can inspire two entirely unique stories that still come together to unite the property.

Which part of the casino was your favorite space to design and why? How did you make it stand apart from the rest?

The Lounge is centrally-located in the casino. With its darker color palette, lifted floors and large feature bar, it offers an air of grandeur, exclusivity and voyeurism that I simply love. The space is wrapped in bold, large-scale, geometric patterns including a dramatic, hexagonal light fixture and several metal “grills” that adorn the walls and ceilings which add layers of interest and complexity to the space.

Have you used Stacy Garcia products in previous projects?

Between Stacy Garcia’s wallcovering, fabrics and carpets, I’ve just about chosen at least one of her patterns for every project.

What are some vital tips to remember when designing for longevity in commercial/hospitality spaces?

Durability and function are paramount in a hospitality environment. If materials can’t stand up to wear and tear, the designer hasn’t done their job, no matter how good the space looks on opening day.

What trends are you seeing in interior design (both commercial/hospitality and residential spaces)?

We are seeing an emphasis on daylighting across the board. Even casinos, which are traditionally dark spaces, are bringing in natural light by adding windows.

If you weren’t an interior designer what would you be?

That’s a toss-up between a professional organizer or a wedding planner. I love seeing things come together.

Do you have any upcoming projects you can share with us?

I am currently working on several confidential hospitality projects in California and on the east coast.

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