Time Sensitive

Ian Schrager on Consistently Capturing the Zeitgeist

Oct 25, 2023

Ian Schrager, a hospitality titan and Studio 54 co-founder, shares insights from his illustrious career. He discusses his design philosophies, emphasizing authenticity and the soul of a space. Schrager draws inspiration from visionaries like Steve Jobs and Walt Disney, reflecting on how their innovative thinking shapes his approach. He also explores the evolving concept of luxury, defining it through the freedom to pursue passions rather than material wealth. The conversation highlights the lasting cultural impact of Studio 54 and the art of creating memorable experiences.

01:07:11

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Ian Schrager

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Quick takeaways

Ian Schrager emphasizes his commitment to creating unique, soulful hotel experiences that prioritize quality over mere aesthetics in hospitality.

He discusses the evolution of the term 'boutique' and prefers 'lifestyle hotel' to reflect authenticity amidst industry oversaturation.

Schrager aims to democratize luxury through his Public Hotels brand, providing sophisticated, affordable options for a diverse audience.

Deep dives

Ian Schrager's Legacy in Hospitality

Ian Schrager reflects on his 40-year journey in the hotel industry, emphasizing his passion for creating unique experiences. He describes how he never initially recognized his capabilities but credits his drive and love for the craft as the reasons for his enduring success. Schrager is proud of introducing the boutique hotel concept with his first venture, Morgan's, alongside Steve Rubell. His vision focused on delivering something unprecedented, which continues to inspire him as he evolves within the hospitality landscape.

Create Buzz Without Ads

00:42

Learning and Growth through Collaboration

00:54

Embracing Public Spaces in Design

00:59

Time is the True Luxury

00:55

Intro

3min

Reflections on Hospitality Innovation

17min

Redefining Luxury Through 'Hotel Time'

17min

Roots of Taste: Growing Up in East Flatbush

3min

From Basketball Dreams to Nightlife Ventures

14min

From Studio 54 to Hotel Dynasty: A Journey of Resilience and Ambition

2min

Rebuilding Life: From Prison to Hotels

9min

Innovating Beyond Boundaries: The Art of Unique Invitations

2min

Behind every unforgettable space and every extraordinary experience is a certain je ne sais quoi. If anyone has an idea of what exactly that is, it’s the hospitality impresario and Studio 54 co-founder Ian Schrager. For more than four decades, Schrager has been a defining cultural catalyst and beacon across industries, from hotels and nightlife, to art and architecture, to fashion and food, and beyond. Since the early 1980s, Schrager has devised and developed more than 20 ahead-of-the-curve hospitality properties, including the Public hotel (2017) in New York City and the Edition line of hotels, as well as, going further back, the Morgans (1982), the Paramount (1990), the Hudson (2000), and the Gramercy Park Hotel (2006) in New York; the Mondrian (1996) in Los Angeles; the Delano (1995) in Miami; St. Martins Lane and the Sanderson (both 1998) in London; and the Clift (2000) in San Francisco. Beyond designing for mere aesthetic appreciation, Schrager cultivates places with a soul and spirit all their own.

On this episode—our 100th—Schrager discusses his tried-and-true design philosophies and definition of luxury today; his admiration for the visionary thinking of Steve Jobs, Elon Musk, and Walt Disney; and the enduring aura of Studio 54.

Special thanks to our Season 8 sponsor, Van Cleef & Arpels.

Show notes:

[00:33] Ian Schrager

[02:54] Morgans Hotel

[02:59] Studio 54

[03:02] Steve Rubell

[06:26] Edition Hotels

[06:33] Arne Sorenson

[12:44] Public Hotels

[13:03] Paramount Hotel

[13:29] The Royalton

[14:45] Hudson Hotel