The New York Times called his work “the Rolls Royce of the genre,” appropriate since he got started in automobile design. A former nightclub singer, he brought theatrical flair to the hospitality stage. A master of detail, he pioneered what one mentee calls “spague,” specific yet vague, with just enough information to keep clients engaged. He was Henry “Bud” Conversano, a founding father of the modern casino and broader integrated resorts concept who passed away in September at age 86.
“Henry’s influence on the current gaming industry was monumental,” leading casino design Paul Steelman says. “Henry realized that casino design was the key to financial success for the owners and operators.”