In Their Own Words
We work with Great People doing Great Things
"It has been my pleasure to have worked with Vito on a number of projects spanning more than a decade of collaboration on projects such as the Iconic Washington Hilton and the Hotel Phillips (Kansas City), one of the original case studies for the Curio Brand. In our work together, Vito was more than just a collaborator representing a large brand; he was always a curious critic and a partner in understanding the special circumstances of a particular client or market. His goal was always the same as ours, which was to achieve a product that was evocative."
— KRAIG KALASHIAN
Principal & Founder
KKAD
It has been my pleasure to have worked with Vito on a number of projects spanning more than a decade of collaboration on projects such as the Iconic Washington Hilton and the Hotel Phillips (Kansas City), one of the original case studies for the Curio Brand. In our work together, Vito was more than just a collaborator representing a large brand; he was always a curious critic and a partner in understanding the special circumstances of a particular client or market. His goal was always the same as ours, which was to achieve a product that was evocative.
- Kraig Kalashian
Principal & Founder, KKAD
Virgin Las Vegas - Curio | Klai Juba Wald Architect | Rockwell Group
Virgin Las Vegas - Curio | Klai Juba Wald Architect | Rockwell Group
Virgin Las Vegas - Curio | Klai Juba Wald Architect | Rockwell Group
"It was a pleasure to partner with Vito Lotta,
VP Arch & Design at Hilton. Together, we transformed the Las Vegas Hard Rock Hotel into Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, joining the Curio Collection.
Vito demonstrated a deep respect for my role in shaping the future of Virgin. Together, we nurtured our design team’s vision, resulting in an outcome that embodies the iconic Virgin brand. I look forward to collaborating with him again in his future endeavors beyond Hilton."
— Teddy Mayer, Creative Director VP Design
Virgin Hotels Collection
Virgin Las Vegas - Curio | Klai Juba Wald Architect | Rockwell Group
Hilton Anaheim Convention Center | Courtesy of Rodrigo Vargas Design
Virgin Las Vegas - Curio | Klai Juba Wald Architect | Rockwell Group
"Substantial credit is due to Vito's leadership. Collaborating him while I was GM at Hilton Anaheim was a fruitful endeavor. Our 1,600-room property was planning a comprehensive renovation, and Vito adeptly navigated challenges posed by all stakeholders to help propel the project forward.
His design management expertise helped us establish and prioritize scope, select all design consultants, and he guided the design process, ensuring the concerns and ideas of all stakeholders were heard."
— Shaun Robinson, General Manager
Hilton San Diego Bayfront
"During the design phases for Hilton Cleveland Downtown & Hilton Des Moines, I felt that Vito was an intricate author in refining the design to best fit all of its end users. Interior design is best remembered when the journey invokes a sense of belonging for the guest.
Vito's attention to focusing the design was steadfast at every step of the process and ultimately lead to a space that imparts a sense of itself on all that experience it."
— Ellis Katz, Dir. Owners Reps
Dana Irvine, Project Manager & Design
Project Management Consultants
Hilton Cleveland | Cooper Carry Architects | Anderson Miller
Hotel Marcel | Dutch East Design | Seamus PAYNE Photographer
"Our collaboration with the brilliant minds at Dutch East Design and the seasoned hospitality expertise of Vito's team at Hilton Global Design Services not only helped us convert a beautifully brutalist midcentury building into a hotel but also established a new paradigm for conscious, forward-thinking design.
I extend my heartfelt thanks to Vito for his collaborative spirit and to Dutch East for their visionary leadership throughout this transformative process. Together, we wove a tapestry that reflects our shared passion for holistic sustainability and the art of designing."
— Bruce Becker, FAIA, AICP, LEED AP, President
Becker & Becker Associates
Developer & Owner Of The Hotel Marcel
"Working with Vito, I have appreciated his mindful approach. His unparalleled insights are grounded in industry experience and an ability to imagine possibilities.
Vito combines the mindset of an owner with the pragmatism of an operator. His creativity and leadership drive results, unlocking the full potential of properties. Looking forward to our next project."
— Paul Novak, Partner
Whitman Peterson
Hotel Owners and Investors
The Fraye - Cuiro | EoA Group - Malcolm Berg
Architects & Interior Designers
"I always enjoyed rolling up my sleeves with Vito and his team with common goals. He always prioritized Collaboration first as the best design comes from inspiration guided by careful, knowledgeable partnerships.
During the time we worked together, there was always a genuine support for the project design concepts and philosophies that were backed up by a deep knowledge of the industry. Vito focused on the ultimate goals of the development, pushing ownership group and our design team to strategically allocate funds in ways that would enhance both the guest experience and the brand. We look forward to partnering with LOTTA."
— Rob Uhrin, AIA
Principal
Cooper Carry Architects
Hilton Columbus Downtown | Cooper Carry Architects | Jeffrey Beers
HKS Architects | Moody Nolan | Simeone Deary Design Group
Virgin Las Vegas | Courtesy of Rockwell Group
"Vito has been a close collaborator on several of my projects and has always pushed our team to do our best work. His energy and constant curiosity result in projects that are both well thought out from a functional side and also inspiring, bringing joy to the guests.
Notable projects include the conversion of Hard Rock to Virgin Las Vegas, the new build Signia Indianapolis destination sky bar, and Signia San Jose, among other noteworthy endeavors."
— Greg Keffer
Partner
Rockwell Group
`"My observation is that Vito’s guiding objectives are the delivery of unique and competitively differentiated designs that conserve development capital providing maximum value. The result is appealing to the consumer and profitable for the client. I have always believed that the ultimate success and greatest pleasure of any development are born of relationships built upon integrity, character and competence. We here at KNA Design owe many of our celebrated endeavors to the vision of this fine man."
— Kirk M. Nix, Principal
KNA Design
"The opportunity to work with Vito on several projects during his tenure at Hilton was an important experience for me. His dedication to design excellence and exceptional thought leadership guided my design team and me towards creative solutions and expanded our approach. The Hilton at RWLV highlights his passion for design, which is contagious, and it was inspiring to have him be such a strong contributor to the entire process – a true partner in design."
— Joycelynn Lagula
Associate Principal | Studio Leader
JCJ Architecture (frm. Wilson Associates)
Conrad & Hilton at Resort World Las Vegas | Courtesy of Hilton
The MORROW DC - Curio Collection | Courtesy of INC Arch & Design
"I had the privilege of collaborating with Vito on some challenging projects and truly valued his decisiveness and clarity. He focused on the key areas where his input mattered most. His thoughtful and concise feedback really streamlined our efforts and allowed the team to focus on the core aspects of the work.
Vito’s direct communication style is invaluable, especially in a creative environment where ambiguity can stall progress and impact project fees. He stands out for the precision of his critiques, which allowed us to quickly refine our work and move forward confidently, knowing exactly where we stood.
It was a pleasure collaborating with him."
— Drew Stuart, Founding Partner
INC Architecture & Design PLLC
"While at Jeffrey Beers, I had the pleasure of closely working with Vito on El San Juan, a Curio Collection, and the new build Hilton Columbus.
Vito consistently demonstrated exceptional design partnership, showing deep respect for our vision while skillfully balancing ownership goals and the brand's aspirations/requirements. He brought extensive industry knowledge and provided invaluable guidance, crucial to the success of these projects."
— Masako Fukuoka, Studio Director
Crème / Jun Aizaki Architecture & Design
(frm) Jeffery Beers International
El San Juan - Curio Collection | Courtesy of Jeffrey Beers Int.
The HooDoo - Curio Collection | Courtesy of Atwater Studio
"We've had the pleasure of collaborating with Vito for the past decade and we look forward to collaborating with LOTTA in the future. Vito's architectural expertise, passion for the hospitality industry, and tenacity for achieving the best have added tremendous value to not only our clients but our projects.
This collaboration has resulted in an award-winning portfolio of prestigious ventures. The Atwater Team is excited to embark on future adventures with Vito by our side as a mentor, facilitator, and creator of extraordinary projects."
— Stina Funch
Founder | Creative Director
Atwater Studio
"Vito was integral to the success of the Statler Hilton historic reuse project in Dallas. He was embedded in all decisions related to the design process from Concept to Construction. His support and unique hotel experience led to a world-class, iconic, and historic project. We congratulate Vito on launching LOTTA Hospitality Design and look forward to more opportunities to work with him soon."
— Milton Anderson
President
Merriman Anderson Architects
"The Statler Dallas is a career highlight I share with Vito.
He ensured the brand story seamlessly integrated into the design and explained the rationale behind his critiques, helping us improve. His ideation dialogues elevated the design, enhancing guest experience and operational performance."
— Gale Nale
VP of Design
Premier (frm. MMA)
The Statler Dallas | Courtesy of Merriman Anderson Architects
The Sound Hotel | Courtesy of HBA International
"Vito’s collaborative approach was extremely helpful to HBA design team, infusing creative solutions for properties and clients.
Vito’s wealth of knowledge and encouraging presence fostered an open dialogue of communication that allowed us to work with him as a partner and not just a brand representative.
He has a great way of approaching design from different angles and provides a fresh perspective. Vito’s vast experience was invaluable when joining us in problem-solving and creative suggestions to culminate in a successful interior space."
— Ashley Bright
Senior Associate & Designer Leader
HBA International
“Vito, your clear design vision and deep understanding of the Hilton brand essence and your collaborative spirit with our team at IDDI was truly instrumental in capturing the timeless qualities of the Hilton Aventura property that we can all be proud of. Thank you for your partnership and guidance on this project.”
— Sherif Ayad
President
ID & Design International
Hilton Aventura Miami | Courtesy of IDDI | Prime Design Associates
"Vito and I worked together from his days at Gensler through his tenure at Hilton, and I look forward to his new venture, LOTTA Hospitality Design. Vito demonstrates unparalleled commitment to excellence in strategic design leadership as an Owner's or Brand rep, blending creative vision with technical expertise. He’s a genuine team player, always supporting project success.
One standout project is The Higgins Hotel in New Orleans, where Vito’s involvement was crucial and memorable."
— Kay Lang
President & CEO
Kay Lang + Associates
The Higgins Hotel | Courtesy of Kay Lang Assoc. | Nichols Architect
Cumberland House - Tapestry Collection | Courtesy of Baskervill
"Baskervill's collaboration with Vito Lotta began with the successful development of Hilton Norfolk – The Main. Vito's insights harmonized our creative efforts, enhancing the guest experience while preserving our unique vision. Our partnership extended to Cumberland House Knoxville – Tapestry Collection by Hilton, where Vito's team played a key role in authentically manifesting a design inspired by Knoxville's rich history. The result: a multi-award-winning project that stands as a testament to our successful collaboration."
— Bradley V. Richards, AIA
Principal,
Baskervill
Hotel West & Main - Tapestry Collection | Courtesy of IIG
“It has been a pleasure working with Vito Lotta and his team at Hilton Global Design, particularly within the Tapestry Collection. Vito's support of our design team has been instrumental in driving us to achieve truly memorable designs over the years. From the outset, Vito has shown a deep appreciation for design and its impact on the overall guest experience.
Under Vito's leadership, the Tapestry Collection has become synonymous with unique and inspired design, offering guests an immersive and unforgettable stay.
His collaborative approach with his team and willingness to explore new ideas have made him a true partner in our design journey.”
— Leslie Schultz, FL-ID, NCIDQ
Chief Design Officer
IIG - Interior Image Group
images courtesy of Hilton