Roger Thomas: The Inventor of Evocatechture
The man who transformed the interior designs of the modern day casino resorts in Las Vegas is none other than Roger Thomas. He and he alone is responsible for elevating the level of hospitality design by placing his mark on the development of Mirage, Bellagio and Wynn Las Vegas, as well as Wynn Cotai (Macau). Thomas called his style ‘evocatechture’. “If I create a space, I want people to feel delighted and surprised and have an immersive experience that leaves an indelible memory which simply makes them want to come back over and over again.
Roger Thomas Career
Roger Thomas is an esteemed interior designer who has made significant contributions to the world of luxury resort design, particularly in the casino industry. He is best known for his work with Steve Wynn and his designs for several iconic Las Vegas resorts.
Thomas began his career at the design firm of Michael Taylor, where he honed his skills and developed a keen eye for creating sophisticated and elegant interiors. In the late 1980s, Thomas joined forces with Steve Wynn and became the Executive Vice President of Design for Wynn Design and Development.
Working closely with Wynn, Thomas played a pivotal role in shaping the distinctive and opulent aesthetics of several Las Vegas resorts. He is renowned for his attention to detail, use of lavish materials, and incorporation of artistic elements into his designs.
Thomas has been involved in the interior design of notable properties, including The Mirage, Bellagio, Wynn Las Vegas, Encore Las Vegas, and Wynn Macau. His designs often feature grand entrances, meticulously crafted lobbies, luxurious suites, and carefully curated art collections.
“In all those 35 years of my professional hospitality design career I have always and solemnly had the pleasure to work on behalf of Steve Wynn, my one and only client”
The Legacy of Roger Thomas in Las Vegas
Roger Thomas is celebrated for his ability to create immersive environments that transport guests into a world of elegance and luxury. His designs seamlessly blend classic and contemporary elements, resulting in timeless and visually stunning spaces.
Throughout his career, Thomas has received numerous accolades for his contributions to the field of interior design. His work has been recognized with prestigious awards, including multiple honors from the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID).
Roger Thomas continues to be an influential figure in the realm of luxury resort design. His creativity and ability to create extraordinary spaces have left an indelible mark on the casino industry, helping to redefine the concept of luxury and elevate the guest experience in resorts worldwide.
Thomas still has a home in Las Vegas (Summerville), but mostly spends his life in California and Venice, together with his wonderful partner Arthur. Roger Thomas is still incredibly active, sitting on the board of many musea and preservatory institutions, as well as serving multiple clients in the field of design.
