News Summary
Architectural Design Consultants, Inc. (ADCI) has completed the acquisition of Hotel & Leisure Advisors (H&LA), enhancing its capabilities in the hospitality and leisure sectors. The deal, effective from October 1, comes after nearly two decades of collaboration between the two firms. H&LA’s president, David Sangree, will remain in his role for at least five more years, ensuring continuity. This strategic merger aims to streamline project workflows and further the growth of both companies while ensuring all employees retain their positions.
Lakewood, Ohio – Architectural Design Consultants, Inc. (ADCI) has acquired Hotel & Leisure Advisors (H&LA), a move expected to enhance service capabilities in the hospitality, leisure, and entertainment sectors. This acquisition is effective as of October 1, with the announcement being made on October 14. The acquisition’s financial terms, however, have not been disclosed.
H&LA, based in Lakewood, has a history of collaboration with ADCI spanning nearly 20 years, including notable projects such as the Great Wolf Lodge and Kalahari Resorts. Following the acquisition, H&LA’s president, David Sangree, will remain at the helm for at least five years, ensuring a continuity of leadership during this transition. The firm consists of 11 employees, all of whom are expected to retain their positions. ADCI itself employs 55 individuals and views this merger as a strategic avenue for long-term growth.
Justin Nagel, vice president of business operations at ADCI, pointed out that a significant factor motivating the acquisition was the cultural synergy between both firms. This merger is set to simplify project workflows, as H&LA will have the ability to refer clients directly to ADCI, facilitating quicker and more efficient project progression.
This acquisition is not only a venture focusing on growth; it is also a measure for succession planning at H&LA. With both firms having established rapport over nearly two decades, this alignment is anticipated to yield fruitful outcomes for stakeholders involved.
Separately, the Oklahoma City-County Health Department has recently initiated an investigation into water quality concerns at the OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark after a failed inspection. The resort, a substantial $400 million development by the Chickasaw Nation, officially opened on March 6, 2025. A routine inspection conducted on July 21 flagged the indoor waterpark due to zero chlorine levels in its lagoon, resulting in a temporary closure.
After prompt corrective measures were undertaken, including raising chlorine levels to 3.2 parts per million, the waterpark reopened approximately four hours later. The health department is currently reviewing the inspection results and will take necessary action to ensure public safety.
OKANA boasts the distinction of housing Oklahoma’s largest indoor waterpark, which spans an impressive 100,000 square feet. The resort offers an array of amenities, including 404 guest rooms, multiple dining options, and a variety of family entertainment facilities, catering to a wide audience.
The opening celebrations included engaging attractions such as stilt walkers, dance parties, and an impressive drone show, aimed at drawing attention to this new leisure hub in Oklahoma City. The design of OKANA intricately incorporates elements of Chickasaw culture, enhancing the local tourism experience and potentially increasing visitor numbers to the city.
Apart from its indoor waterpark, OKANA will feature a Day Spa, a large arcade, and numerous family-oriented attractions, making it a multifaceted destination for leisure activities. The name “OKANA” reflects its cultural heritage, symbolizing the Chickasaw people’s profound historical connection to water.
Economic forecasts suggest that OKANA could contribute significantly to the local economy by creating numerous job opportunities and generating substantial tax revenue. Additionally, the resort’s outdoor 4.5-acre lagoon is scheduled to open in May 2025, including a variety of water attractions and amenities for guests to enjoy.
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Additional Resources
- Crain’s Cleveland: Hotel & Leisure Advisors Acquired
- KOCO: OKANA Resort Waterpark Opens
- My Curly Adventures: OKANA Resort Waterpark Review
- News 9: OKANA Resort Indoor Waterpark Overview
- Free Press OKC: OKANA Resort Waterpark Spring Opening
- Wikipedia: Water Park
- Google Search: OKANA Resort Waterpark
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hotel
- Google News: Hotel Leisure Advisors
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