MIAMI—Starwood Hotels, the hotel brand management company behind 1 Hotels, Baccarat Hotels, and Treehouse Hotels, announces the appointment of Gonzalo Bustamante as Senior Vice President of Design. With more than two decades of visionary design leadership, Bustamante will spearhead the next chapter of Starwood Hotels’ design legacy.
Bustamante’s experience spans both intimate boutique hotels and major global groups, blending personalized sophistication with the expertise to deliver large-scale, iconic destinations. He previously held the position of Executive Vice President of Design and Development at MGM Resorts International where he oversaw multi-billion-dollar projects across multiple continents, including the landmark $10 billion MGM Japan project in Osaka. In this role, he translated bold creative visions into world-class resorts and entertainment destinations that redefined their markets.
Earlier in his career, Bustamante was Studio Leader at Rockwell Group, where he crafted award-winning boutique hotel and hospitality experiences celebrated for their artistry, intimacy, and immersive storytelling. His portfolio includes work on the acclaimed Spectacle at MGM Cotai and the iconic Kodak Theatre in Los Angeles. This combined expertise positions him to elevate Starwood Hotels’ portfolio and ensure that each property embodies the brand’s signature blend of design innovation and exceptional guest experiences.
Translates Creative Visions into Operational Excellence
“Gonzalo’s extensive background in creating both globally recognized resorts and intimate boutique hospitality experiences makes him an ideal leader for our design team,” said Raul Leal, CEO of Starwood Hotels. “His proven ability to translate bold creative visions into operational excellence will be key as we continue to grow and refine our portfolio.”
“I am thrilled to join Starwood Hotels at such an exciting moment in its growth. Their approach to redefining luxury through nature-inspired, culturally resonant design creates transformative hospitality experiences on a global scale. I look forward to collaborating with the team to craft immersive and meaningful spaces that resonate with guests and communities alike,” said Bustamante.
As Starwood Hotels continues its global expansion to locations such as Crete, Riyadh, and the Maldives, Bustamante will guide the design strategy for new developments and oversee updates to existing properties, ensuring each space reflects the cultures, communities, and natural surroundings in which it resides, while reinforcing the company’s commitment to sustainability and world-class design leadership.
