As we prepare for the HD Expo + conference in August at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, attendees can get a taste of what to expect with the HD Expo + conference preview. Running May 4-5, the free virtual program includes a range of exclusive conversations, updates and insights you can’t miss.

The program will begin on Tuesday May 4 with Hospitality design editor-in-chief Stacy Shoemaker Rauen in conversation with David rockwell about his new book, Drama. Shoemaker Rauen will then host the “HD Insight: Where Are We Now?” panel, which will assess the performance and direction of the industry as we emerge from COVID-19. Next, “Lightning Round: New Project Update” will highlight upcoming and newly developed projects from Studio Munge, SOM, Lore Group, and more. “Ask the Purchasers” will feature industry leaders answering questions from the audience, moderated by Helen W. Jorgensen of host hotels and resorts. Finally, Shoemaker Rauen will sit down with the Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud and designer Stephanie Goto for an in-depth look at their innovative restaurant concept, Boulud Sur Mer.

Wednesday May 5 will begin with the “Round Table of the Platinum Circle”, where High Definition will celebrate and inaugurate its most recent award winners. The roundtable will also open with the presentation of three scholarships by the NEWH. Following, Bruce ford of Lodging Econometrics will bring its expertise to an “accommodation forecast” which will provide insight and prospects for hotel development around the world. The ‘Identity and Brand Update’ panel will then tackle brand-centric stories from an insider perspective, with brands such as Bunkhouse, Hostel, and AutoCamp represented. Shoemaker Rauen will also host “DesignWell – 10 Questions About Health, Wellness and Design,” where experts will answer burning questions about design for wellness. Fittingly, the HD Expo preview will end with “HD Onsite – Las Vegas Preview”. Directed by Mark Boekenheide, senior vice president of global development for Las Vegas Sands Corporation, the in-depth dive will include project updates, insider looks and insightful conversations.

Register for the HD Expo + conference preview

Plus, registrations for the in-person event August 24-25 are now also open! Register for the 2021 HD Expo + conference.