Welcome John Nelson
John Nelson, Principal / Director of Hospitality & Interior Design
Dallas, TX – [May 12, 2025]
FBT Architects is proud to announce that John Nelson, AIA, has joined the firm as Principal, Director of Hospitality and Interior Design, bringing more than three decades of award-winning experience in luxury hospitality environments to FBT’s expanding Dallas office.
John joins FBT following a celebrated 30-year career as Principal at Looney & Associates, one of the most respected hospitality design firms in the country. Throughout his career, John has led projects totaling over $10 billion in construction value and more than 50,000 hotel rooms worldwide, including for brands such as Marriott Hotels & Resorts, Hyatt Hotels & Resorts, and Hilton Hotels & Resorts.
“John’s reputation in the hospitality industry is second to none,” said Art Tatum, Managing Principal at FBT Architects. “His leadership, global experience, and design vision will be instrumental as we grow our presence in the hospitality and interior design sectors across Texas and beyond.”
As Director of Hospitality and Interior Design, John will lead strategy and design direction for FBT’s work in upscale and luxury hospitality, high-end mixed-use developments, and experience-driven interiors. His appointment marks a major milestone for FBT’s Dallas office and signals the firm’s commitment to becoming a premier player in the national design market.
I’m excited to join FBT at such a dynamic time,” said Nelson. “The firm’s culture of collaboration and creative excellence aligns perfectly with my passion for design that elevates the guest experience. Together, we’re going to deliver bold, thoughtful, and memorable projects.”
This appointment strengthens FBT’s ongoing expansion in Texas and underscores its vision to deliver world-class design across the markets it serves. Nelson will collaborate closely with FBT’s teams in Albuquerque, Colorado Springs, and Dallas to shape innovative environments that inspire and endure.