IAG EXPO 2025: Interview with Paul Heretakis

IAG EXPO 2025: Interview with Paul Heretakis

Summary

Inside Asian Gaming’s Vice Chairman and CEO Andrew W Scott speaks with Paul Heretakis, Managing Director of Westar Architects. The interview covers Heretakis’s recent and ongoing work — notably the renovation of The Venetian Las Vegas — and his perspective on leading large integrated resort (IR) projects around the world. Westar’s portfolio and expertise in IRs and hospitality design are highlighted, with references to major projects such as MGM Cotai and City of Dreams in Macau, as well as numerous hotel and hospitality schemes.

Source

Source: https://asgam.com/2025/09/11/iag-expo-2025-interview-with-paul-heretakis/

Key Points

1. Paul Heretakis discusses Westar Architects’ role on high-profile IR projects, including the renovation work at The Venetian Las Vegas.
2. Westar has broad experience across integrated resorts and hospitality, with credits such as MGM Cotai and City of Dreams Macau.
3. Renovations demand a different approach to design and logistics compared with new builds — phasing, guest continuity and operations are critical.
4. Design priorities emphasised include guest experience, mixed-use integration, sustainability and flexibility to adapt to market changes.
5. IAG EXPO 2025 serves as a platform for industry leaders to share practical insights on development, design and operations in the APAC region and beyond.

Why should I read this

Short and sharp — if you work in development, operations or design this quick interview gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how a seasoned architect tackles massive resorts and tricky renovations. It’s the sort of practical perspective that helps you spot what matters on your next big project.

Context and Relevance

The interview is relevant to developers, operators and design professionals tracking trends in integrated resorts and hospitality. As the industry balances refurbishment of legacy assets with new-build ambitions, insights from an experienced firm like Westar help frame decisions around guest experience, operational phasing and sustainability. The piece also ties into wider IAG EXPO programming taking place at Newport World Resorts, where regional industry priorities and opportunities are being debated.