Photo Credit: MGM Resorts International
The Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino has completed a $100 million redesign and remodel to its 2.1-million-square-foot convention center. The expansive facility — the second-largest convention center in Las Vegas — now sports an updated contemporary design with superior lighting, upgraded technology infrastructure and state-of-the-art digital signage. The final touches were just added to the remodeled ballrooms, while many of the improvements have been gradually unveiled over the past two and a half years.
Because meetings business is so vital to the success of the property, explained Mandalay Bay vice president of hotel sales Ernest Stovall earlier this year, the decision to invest $100 million in the convention center's renovation was an easy one. "We had to look at this as what we would lose if we didn't do the refresh," he said. "Maintaining the facility's appeal for groups, and keeping it updated with state-of-the-art technology was absolutely essential."
Upgraded technology
New digital signage in the facility is customizable for each group, and large, impactful “digital walls” — giant screens, the largest of which is 13-by-24 feet — convey show information and sponsor messaging at key locations. There are 11 such screens, strategically placed for exposure.
Because demand for bandwidth has surged and the tech segment is of particular significance to the venue, one of the most important aspects of the refresh was the investment in CAT 6A internet cabling, now present throughout the facility. The upgraded cables double the frequency of data transmission, allowing for Internet speeds up to 9,400 percent faster. All meeting-room doors are now outfitted with RFID locks, and more than 200 motion-detection cameras have been added, as well.
A brighter, more practical design
The new look by the MGM Resorts International Design Group, together with Dezmotif Studios, aims to create a brighter atmosphere with elements more conducive to productivity and collaboration. New lighting and seating areas are complemented by white-washed walls, and carpets with floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones. Meeting rooms, ballrooms and prefunction spaces have been redesigned, and the exhibit hall has new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights. New works by artists Thandiwe Muriu and Sarah Anne Johnson are showcased in the space.
More resort updates
Mandalay Bay is in the midst of numerous upgrades outside of the convention space, too: All 424 guest rooms at the Four Seasons — a luxury hotel within the Mandalay Bay complex — recently were remodeled, and the new restaurants Orla by Michael Mina and Caramá by Wolfgang Puck have debuted. Venues opening later this year include Swingers, a high-end, 21-and-over mini-golf facility and cocktail bar; and Bob Marley Hope Road, an immersive experience honoring the reggae singer.