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HBA Retains Top Hospitality Design Spot, Opens Studios in Mexico City and São Paulo

HBA Retains Top Hospitality Design Spot, Opens Studios in Mexico City and São Paulo
Hospitality · 2026
Photo · Olivia Whitfield for Travelmao
By Olivia Whitfield Luxury Travel Jun 12, 2026 3 min read

Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA) has once again secured the top spot on Interior Design’s 2026 Top 100 Giants Hospitality List, a position it has held for more than 25 years. The firm also rose to No. 12 on the publication’s overall Top 100 Giants ranking and earned a place on Forbes’ inaugural list of America’s Top Hospitality Architects & Designers 2026.

Global Studio Expansion

HBA is expanding its physical footprint with new studios in Mexico City and São Paulo, as well as additional locations in Madrid, Istanbul, and Kuala Lumpur. The firm is also extending its Leisure and Residential practices into Tokyo and Dubai. This brings HBA’s total to 29 offices worldwide, with its headquarters in Singapore.

Co-CEO Chris Godfrey commented, “These accolades reflect the strength of our people, our clients, and our commitment to creating meaningful design experiences around the world.”

Recent Projects and Expertise

HBA’s recent portfolio includes the Fairmont Breakers Long Beach in the United States, One&Only Portonovi in Montenegro, and Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab in Dubai. These projects highlight the firm’s expertise in heritage restoration and luxury resort design. The firm’s work continues to be recognized by prestigious industry awards, reinforcing its leadership in hospitality design.

Founded in 1965, HBA now unites over 1,500 design professionals across multiple disciplines. The firm’s expansion aligns with broader trends in the hospitality industry, such as the growth of wellness tourism and the increasing demand for unique, culturally immersive experiences. For more on how wellness is reshaping travel strategies, see Wellness Tourism Reshapes Asia Pacific Hospitality and Travel Strategies.

HBA’s new studios in Latin America and Europe position the firm to serve a growing number of hotel projects in those regions. The firm’s ability to blend local cultural elements with global design standards has made it a preferred partner for luxury hotel groups and independent properties alike. As the hospitality sector rebounds and expands, HBA’s continued investment in new markets signals confidence in the industry’s long-term growth.

For travel professionals, HBA’s recognition and expansion underscore the importance of design in differentiating hotel brands and enhancing guest experiences. The firm’s work on projects like the Fairmont Breakers Long Beach and Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab demonstrates how thoughtful design can elevate a property’s market position and drive revenue.

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