As part of the Palms Casino Resort’s comprehensive $690 million upgrade, artist Damien Hirst has designed the new Empathy suite sky villa. Crafted in collaboration with Bentel & Bentel, the 9,000-square-foot suite spans two floors overlooking the Vegas Strip.
“Our work with Damien Hirst and his talented team began with our architecture, design, and furniture for the entire suite,” says Bentel & Bentel partner Peter Bentel. “Over the course of a few months, we explored with Damien’s team every opportunity for the intersection of our work and Damien’s—including locations for his commissioned art, modifications to the furniture we chose, and superimposition of his motifs on our material palette. Uncovering those opportunities together was the essence of ‘play’ with an added dose of ‘why not?’”
The accommodation showcases many Hirst signatures, from custom furniture and textiles to pharmacy motifs. Six original artworks adorn the walls as well. Beneath the room’s soaring ceilings, the 13-seat curved bar is flanked by two luxe lounge areas that accommodate up to 52 guests. Bespoke furniture, drapery, carpeting, and serpentine Italian leather sofas also converge in these spaces to amplify a butterfly motif. Nearby, the large, eight-seat dining space is attached to the outdoor veranda, where a cantilevered Jacuzzi inlaid with butterflies and pill decals.
“I love what Frank and Lorenzo Fertitta have done with the Palms. It’s amazing being able to work with them because they are great collectors and totally understand art,” Hirst says. “They have allowed me to create a suite in the hotel and design everything and completely fill it with my art.”
