Architect David Rockwell to receive 2008 Sarno Lifetime Achievement award at G2E 2008

Rockwell will be presented with the Sarno Award during the Casino Design Awards Luncheon at G2E 2008 on November 17 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. He is founder and CEO of the architecture and design firm Rockwell Group, and has spearheaded the creation of an array of hospitality and entertainment properties, including the Casino of the Earth and the Casino of the Sky, both at Mohegan Sun.

His work and design for Mohegan Sun has helped turn the tribal gaming property into the one of the largest and most popular gaming complexes in the world. “We are pleased to recognize David's artistic contributions and work in the field of casino design, and look forward to honoring him with this years Sarno Lifetime Achievement Award,” said Frank J. Fahrenkopf, Jr., president and CEO of the American Gaming Association. His creative vision not only shaped the creation of one of the largest gaming resorts in the world, but also has contributed a unique voice to the spectacular architecture and design now associated with casino resorts.

In addition to his renowned interpretation of Mohegan Suns casino floor, Rockwells past projects include the Kodak Theatre in Los Angeles and, in New York City, the Elinor Bunin-Monroe Film Center at Lincoln Center, the W New York and the W Union Square. Rockwell also has taken his creative vision to Broadway, where he has designed sets for hit musicals such as Hairspray, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels and Legally Blonde.

In 2006, Rockwell co-wrote Pleasure, a book examining popular architectural works and achievements. He also is a member of the Cooper Hewitt National Design Museums committee on Exhibitions. Rockwell received a B.A. in architecture from Syracuse University.

The Sarno Award is the highest honor afforded any individual involved in the design and construction of casino resorts. It is named for Jay Sarno, the godfather of casino designers, who envisioned such well-known casino resort properties as Caesars Palace and Circus Circus in the 1960s. In addition to Sarno, who received the first award posthumously, previous winners include Joel Bergmann, Don Brinkerhoff, Jon Jerde and Brad Friedmutter.