By Jessica Villano

“A lot of the resort, from an interior perspective, remained very much in harmony with what was there,” said Mancini. “We enhanced some of the fabrics but didn’t make major changes to the architectural intent of the property. Our goal was to make sure that what was developed complemented the original hotel.”

But one place reflecting the newer design is the casino floor and the new gourmet restaurants. The Design Group created more movement for guests to explore the property and new restaurants that surround the casino floor, all which have their own personality due to a collaborative effort with outside design firms – Jeffrey Beers created the rustic Todd English’s Olives, Duncan & Miller Design crafted the classic BR Prime and Cleo Design conceptualized the exotic Jia. They also opened the center of the casino to draw the eye to the high-limit area, serving as a centerpiece, as well as the poker room.

“It really is the biggest jump in style. You can see it in the ceiling coppers, the chandeliers and the overall mix of coloration,” said Mancini. He explains that the poker room – featuring great architectural detail, leather inset panels and a relief-panel ceiling – is also very different. It has an upscale feel, describing it as an “incredibly handsome environment and a beautiful addition to the property.”

At the end of the day – after color palettes had been determined, fabrics and textures chosen and plans drawn up – the Beau Rivage project was not like other jobs the MGM MIRAGE Design Group has tackled: “This was unique. It wasn’t about design, it was about our employees and rebuilding the community in Biloxi,” said Mancini.