Los Angeles-based sbe Entertainment Group has announced the official groundbreaking for the SLS Las Vegas on the north end of the Strip. Expected to open in fall 2014, the development-a renovation of the Sahara-is predicted to instill $400 million into the local economy and create a projected 8,600 jobs.
Having owned and operated the property for seven years, sbe will employ its adaptive reuse philosophy in redevelopment. Chairman and CEO Sam Nazarian, designer Philippe Starck, chef José Andrés, and Gensler will collaborate on the resort and casino’s design.

“It’s a proud day for sbe, our partners at Stockbridge, and the Vegas community as we embark on a historic chapter for SLS Las Vegas,” says Nazarian. “We’re very excited to deliver a new idea to Vegas in terms of brands, approachability, operations, and infrastructure, and to achieve our goal of helping to revitalize the north end of the Strip.”
Once completed, the 1,600-room hotel will be a fully integrated, entertainment-driven casino and resort. Nightlife experiences-Shelter, a reinvention of sbe’s original concept in Los Angeles, and the Sayers Club, an exclusive live music venue-will be featured along with a 10,000-square-foot Fred Segal retail complex. Dining-wise, the hotel will include the Bazaar by José Andrés, Umami Burger, Katsuya by Starck, and the Griddle Café.
“Last year, more visitors traveled to Las Vegas than ever before and SLS will appeal to the millions of global travelers that come to our city for its undisputed accommodations,” says Nevada Senator Harry Reid. “This investment will create thousands of jobs, infuse millions into the local economy, and help bring new energy to the north end of the Strip. I have supported this project from the outset and am so pleased that SLS Las Vegas is officially breaking ground.”
