Imperial Palace Casino Resort & Spa was celebrated as the first Gulf Coast casino back in operation following the devastating August 29, 2005 Hurricane Katrina. President & GM Jon Lucas called upon Friedmutter Group to lead the complete re-design required to open the property December 22, 2005. Public spaces were virtually gutted as the design team created new lobby & porte cochere, 7 restaurants, race & sports book, poker room, coffee shops, ultra-lounge & nightclubs, pool and an ultra luxurious 25,000 square foot spa. Imperial Palace became the IP and today looks only towards the future and continuing their successful expansion plans.