Rising from the shell of the former Diamond Jacks Casino, Live! Casino Louisiana is reimagining the region’s gaming scene with a dazzling new land-based experience, fueled by the Cordish Companies’ vision and the design expertise of HBG Design in conjunction with architect-of-record KdG, a Shive-Hattery company.
The project marks a bold new chapter for the property—and a powerful new destination for North Louisiana entertainment.
“We set out to create a casino atmosphere that feels completely fresh but still authentically rooted in the local environment,” says Paul Bell, AIA, principal and project manager at HBG Design. “The Red River’s natural energy and flowing forms became the lifeblood of our design inspiration, shaping the entire guest journey.”
A Grand First Impression
The moment guests arrive at the porte-cochere, they’re immersed in the action. A spectacular LED media ribbon—one of the most striking visual signatures of the property—flows seamlessly from the exterior canopy, through the glass wall and onto the vestibule floor in a dynamic ribbon of light and motion. The result: an “Instagrammable” showpiece that’s as mesmerizing as it is memorable.
“Live! is an art-forward brand,” Bell notes. “The digital entry sequence lets us create ever-changing moments of wonder that immediately connect guests to the energy of the casino.”
Surrounding the vestibule, rich materials of walnut, stone and travertine create a warm, contemporary welcome. Integrated lighting within three-dimensional millwork adds texture and drama, while playful sculptural ceiling elements mirror the flowing nature of the Red River nearby.
A Gaming Floor That Flows
Step onto the main casino floor and the design story deepens. Inspired by the organic movements of water, more than 1,000 state-of-the-art gaming positions are set amid curving ceiling forms, shimmering light installations and a bold, vibrant color palette dominated by rich reds and dynamic accents.
Ceiling coves break the lines of sight to mimic the disruptions of rocks and currents in the river, while custom lighting fixtures swirl like eddies and bubbles rising to the surface.
“We wanted the floor to feel alive—to create a sense of constant motion and discovery, just like the Red River itself,” says Bell. “Every detail is designed to energize the experience without overwhelming the senses.”
Center Bar: The Heartbeat of the Action
The casino’s Center Bar pulses with vitality. A whirlpool-inspired canopy of rod lights twinkles above, for a dazzling night-sky effect. Curved screens encircle the main column, broadcasting live sports and entertainment, while bar-top gaming keeps the action going.
Brass accents and a playful, confetti-patterned floor add sparkle to the space. RGB-integrated light coves throughout the casino amplify the experience further, transforming the atmosphere with vivid color celebrations every time a jackpot hits.
High Limits: Elevated in Every Way
Luxury and luck find a sophisticated home in the exclusive High Limit area. Greeting guests is a breathtaking suspended crystal dragon, shimmering above the entrance as a symbol of prosperity.
“The High Limit environment needed to feel truly special—intimate, aspirational, and steeped in symbolism,” Bell explains.
Inside, a stunning custom chandelier, inspired by decanters and reflective glass, commands attention. Materials like gold glass tile, burlwood, walnut and deep purple and gold carpeting (designed with floating ginkgo leaves) wrap the lounge and gaming areas in rich, layered textures.
Amenities include a private bar illuminated by glowing backlit onyx panels, an adjacent intimate lounge, a private gaming cage, and luxurious restrooms—all tailored to meet the expectations of Live!’s most discerning guests.
“From the moment you arrive, we want you to feel swept away by the energy of Live! Casino,” says Bell. “It’s about creating a continuous narrative of excitement, elegance and local inspiration that keeps guests coming back for more.”
For more information, visit HBG.design.
