With the long-awaited opening of MGM Mirage’s massive five-resort CityCenter complex only a few months away, news is slowly starting to leak regarding some of the concepts that will open within the behemoth development. Last week, The Light Group officially announced what has long been known in Strip circles: that they will be operating several concepts within the property, including a large, split-level nightclub and a topless, adults-only pool oasis.
The Light Group, which already operates nearly a dozen nightclub, lounge and restaurant concepts in various MGM Mirage properties, will be opening four venues within the ARIA Resort & Casino portion of the property, announced Light’s CEO and partner Andy Masi. "We are thrilled be part of CityCenter and ARIA Resort & Casino," Masi stated. "Our new collection at this groundbreaking project will perfectly complement our existing venues while changing the landscape of Las Vegas' hospitality scene."
The 25,000-square-foot nightclub space will be coined Haze and is being designed by award-winning design firm ICRAVE, which has also designed successful nightlife projects in Los Angeles (Villa and Hyde Lounge to name two) and New York (Pacha and Crobar NYC). While details remain quiet, we do know that the club will feature large hanging props, a grand staircase and a plush mezzanine level. Design-wise, we are already hearing about the 100-foot-long wall of interactive projection screens and a two-story light wall to accompany the John Lyons-created sound system. The nightclub is aiming for a New Year’s Eve launch and it is rumored that the Light Group is working on signing acclaimed spinster Tiesto to ensure the night’s a hit.
The adult-only pool area has been named Liquid and will be a progression of the adult-themed poolside “day-clubs” that have become revenue-scouring beasts in the scorching desert sun. Liquid, which is slated for a Spring 2010 launch, promises to offer 17 high-tech VIP cabanas, numerous dipping pools and underwater speakers alongside personalized chaise lounges and cozy daybeds. Light Group hopes that Liquid is “conceptualized to offer the ultimate experience under the Vegas sun.”
Elsewhere on property, the Light Group will add to its restaurant portfolio with Union Restaurant & Lounge, which is being headed up by longtime executive chef Brian Massie and is designed by Vegas favorite Adam Tihany. The circular space will be located within the center of ARIA’s casino floor and promises to offer seclusion and intimacy through the use of “architectural trees.” Nearby, steps off the main casino floor will be LG’s fourth venue, The Deuce Lounge, which is being designed as a hybrid between an upscale lounge and a high-limit gaming area. The lounge also will feature hors d’oeuvres from Union Restaurant and flat-screen televisions.