HBA / Hirsch Bedner Associates

The story of Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA) is a journey of pioneering vision and global expansion that began in 1965. Founded in Santa Monica, California, by the dynamic duo of Howard Hirsch and Michael Bedner, HBA carved a niche for itself by being one of the very first firms to specialize exclusively in hospitality design. In an era where interior design for hotels was often an afterthought, Hirsch and Bedner saw an opportunity to create immersive and memorable experiences for travelers. Their early projects, such as the Beverly Rodeo Hotel in Beverly Hills and Chez Voltaire restaurant in Florida, laid the groundwork for a legacy of luxury and innovation. They didn't just design spaces; they crafted narratives, weaving together a sense of place with unparalleled comfort and style, a philosophy that would become the hallmark of the HBA brand.

Recognizing the burgeoning demands of an increasingly interconnected world, HBA embarked on a strategic global expansion. This wasn't just about opening offices in new cities; it was about embedding the firm within diverse cultures to truly understand and reflect local aesthetics in their designs. The journey began with the opening of a Hong Kong office in 1978, followed by Atlanta in 1980 and London in 1987. The firm's global footprint continued to grow with a Singapore office in 1988, which would eventually become its headquarters, and subsequent openings in San Francisco, Dubai, and beyond. Today, with over two dozen offices worldwide and a team of more than 1,300 designers, HBA's influence is truly global. The firm has diversified its expertise beyond hotels to include world-class residences, spas, casinos, restaurants, and even luxury cruise ships, consistently setting new benchmarks for excellence and being recognized as a leader in the hospitality design industry for decades.