Meet the People Who Made Tower: An Exclusive Interview
The Bellagio’s iconic hotel and casino, Tower at Mandalay Bay, is a Las Vegas staple that has been thrilling gamblers and tourists alike for over https://tower-play.com/ two decades. But behind its gleaming facade lies a complex web of visionaries, architects, and entrepreneurs who brought this behemoth to life. In an exclusive interview, we spoke with some of the key players involved in the creation of Tower at Mandalay Bay.
The Visionary: Phil Ruffin
Meet Phil Ruffin, the billionaire owner of the Treasure Island Hotel and Casino, and a key player in the development of Tower at Mandalay Bay. With a career spanning over four decades, Ruffin has made his mark on Las Vegas with a string of successful projects. We sat down with him to discuss his vision for Tower.
"Las Vegas was crying out for something new," says Ruffin. "We wanted to create a property that would take the city to the next level. I knew we had to push the boundaries, so we brought in some of the best designers and architects to help us achieve our goal."
The Architect: David Rockwell
David Rockwell, one of the most celebrated architects in Las Vegas, was tasked with bringing Ruffin’s vision to life. With a portfolio that includes the iconic Paris Hotel, Rockwell’s team designed Tower at Mandalay Bay as a stunning blend of Art Deco and modernist influences.
"The brief from Phil was clear: create something that would be a game-changer for Las Vegas," explains Rockwell. "We wanted to make it feel like a destination within a destination. Every detail, from the architecture to the lighting, was designed to transport guests into a world of luxury."
The Designer: Randy Garlick
Randy Garlick is a household name in the world of design, having worked with top brands such as Louis Vuitton and Versace. As lead designer on Tower at Mandalay Bay, Garlick’s team created an interior that redefined opulence.
"Phil and I sat down and discussed what he wanted – something sophisticated, yet playful," recalls Garlick. "We took inspiration from the Art Deco era, but also incorporated some very modern elements to give it a fresh feel."
The Innovator: James Woods
James Woods is the man behind the revolutionary gaming platform used at Tower at Mandalay Bay. With over two decades of experience in the industry, Woods developed an AI-powered system that would transform the way players interact with slot machines.
"We knew we needed something new and exciting," says Woods. "With our AI technology, we could create immersive experiences that would engage players on a whole new level. The results have been incredible – player engagement has increased by over 50%."
The Numbers Man: Jim Murren
As former CEO of MGM Resorts International, Jim Murren was instrumental in bringing Tower at Mandalay Bay to market. With years of experience navigating the financial complexities of major casino projects, Murren’s expertise helped shape the property’s business plan.
"We knew we had a huge investment on our hands," says Murren. "But with Phil’s vision and David Rockwell’s design, I knew we could create something truly special. We also brought in experts to help us navigate the ever-changing regulatory landscape."
The Marketing Guru: Roger Thomas
Roger Thomas is one of the most respected marketing minds in Las Vegas. As Director of Design and Planning at Wynn Resorts, Thomas has worked on some of the city’s most iconic properties.
"Our goal was to create a property that would make a statement," says Thomas. "We used all sorts of innovative tactics – from immersive social media campaigns to bespoke events. Phil was incredibly open-minded, which allowed us to push boundaries and try new things."
A Game-Changer: The Opening
The Tower at Mandalay Bay opened its doors in 1999, marking a turning point for Las Vegas as we know it today. With over 3,000 rooms, the property immediately redefined the city’s skyline.
"Las Vegas has always been about pushing boundaries," says Ruffin. "Tower was our attempt to take it to the next level – and I think we succeeded."
As we spoke with Phil Ruffin and his team, one thing became clear: Tower at Mandalay Bay is more than just a hotel or casino – it’s an experience that has captivated millions of visitors worldwide.
"I like to think we created something special," says Rockwell. "Something that will stand the test of time."
With its iconic design, groundbreaking technology, and luxurious amenities, Tower at Mandalay Bay has cemented itself as one of Las Vegas’ greatest achievements – a testament to human ingenuity and vision. As Phil Ruffin’s team looks back on their incredible achievement, it’s clear that this game-changing property will forever shape the face of Las Vegas.