Academy of Art University will present its 2012 Design Icon Award to Roger Thomas, Executive Vice President of Design for Wynn Design and Development.
The award will be given to Mr. Thomas by Academy of Art University President, Dr. Elisa Stephens at a special reception on Thursday evening, December 13 at 5:30pm con-current with the opening of the School of Interior Architecture & Design’s Winter Show highlighting the best student work from the department.
Mr. Thomas will deliver a lecture to the school’s students the following morning, discussing his career as a design professional and opportunities that he sees in the evolving design field. In announcing the award, Dr. Stephens cited Mr. Thomas’ consistent contributions to design, especially in hospitality design, where he is best known for creating the interiors for Wynn Las Vegas and Encore at the Wynn Las Vegas, as well as Wynn and Encore Macau.
Based in Las Vegas, Roger Thomas’ background includes designing many of the city’s most recognized properties, including the Golden Nugget, Treasure Island, and the Bellagio and Mirage Resorts. He has also designed corporate offices, aircraft interiors and private residences for Stephen A. Wynn. A prolific product designer as well, Mr. Thomas has created signature collections for APF Master Framemakers, furniture for Edward Ferrell + Lewis Mittman, the Natural Carpet Company, wall coverings for Fromental, lighting for Boyd and Niedermaier and outdoor furnishings for Veneman. The recipient of numerous top design and hospitality awards, Roger Thomas has also served on the boards of a wide range of regional arts and design organizations. He is a trustee of DIFFA (Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS).