NFC Architects, LLC

LOEWS UNIVERSAL STUDIOS RESORT – Orlando, Florida
Winning Design Competition Entry

Originally envisioned as a Polynesian / South Pacific-inspired resort, this 1,000-key development—now called Rio Calypso—features a recreational lagoon pool, luxury spa, and state-of-the-art conference center within the Universal Studios Orlando masterplan.
During the 2014 design competition, Neil Capangpangan, AIA- served as a freelance design consultant with RJTR Atlanta, where he was instrumental in shaping the early master plan and conceptual imagery that led to the winning entry—prevailing against four of the nation’s leading hospitality design firms.
All drawings were crafted by hand, capturing the vibrancy of South Pacific and Mayan influences.
In subsequent design stages, Neil continued to be involved during the early design refinements before the project transitioned fully under RJTR’s direction. The final built resort later evolved into a Caribbean-inspired architectural expression.
Recently, Neil revisited his original concept using AI-assisted visualization, exploring how timeless ideas can re-emerge through modern tools—bridging the artistry of hand-drawn design and the power of AI innovation.
(Images: Neil's -Original hand sketches, early perspectives, AI-enhanced re-creations, and behind-the-scenes design process.)
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