Sarah Robbins, the COO of 21C Museum Hotels, dives into the fascinating fusion of modern art and hospitality. She shares how they create unforgettable experiences with whimsical art installations, like playful penguin statues. The conversation moves to the vibrant community engagement through art and dining at their hotels. Robbins also gives insights into their upcoming Alaska cruise, blending adventure with the unique offerings of museum hotels. Plus, they discuss recent airline policy changes and their impact on family travel.
21C Museum Hotels uniquely blend modern art exhibitions with boutique accommodations, creating immersive cultural experiences for guests.
The operation of 21C Museum Hotels involves significant logistical challenges, requiring a dedicated team to manage both hotel services and rotating art exhibits.
A strong commitment to genuine hospitality at 21C Museum Hotels enhances guest appreciation of art and fosters personal connections during their stay.
Deep dives
Unique Hotel Concept
The 21C Museum Hotels offer a distinctive hospitality experience by combining boutique accommodations with contemporary art exhibitions and chef-driven restaurants. Unlike traditional hotels, they feature rotating art galleries that enhance the guest experience, making the hotel a destination in itself. Each location provides a unique flavor of local culture, showcasing not only art but also culinary creativity specific to the region. This concept allows visitors to engage with art in an inviting atmosphere, bridging the gap between a cultural experience and a comfortable stay.
Engagement with Living Artists
The hotel chain prioritizes showcasing the work of living artists, allowing guests to encounter art that is relevant and reflective of contemporary societal themes. By rotating exhibitions annually and featuring works from over 200 countries, the hotels offer diverse perspectives that encourage guest interaction and dialogue. Unique installations can surprise guests, such as the provocative portrayal of historical figures in a gallery setting, stimulating curiosity and discussion. This approach emphasizes the immediacy and relevance of art, allowing guests to discover and appreciate artistic expressions that resonate with current events.
Operational Challenges of Museum Hotels
Managing the dual operation of a hotel and an art museum poses substantial logistical challenges. Each hotel features a dedicated team that works to curate exciting exhibitions while ensuring that hotel operations run smoothly. The process of rotating exhibitions is often compared to solving a complex puzzle, with careful consideration for art placement and maintenance schedules. Despite these challenges, the immersive art experience adds an intriguing layer to the hospitality offering, creating a distinctive environment for guests.
The Importance of Hospitality
At the core of the 21C experience is a deep commitment to genuine hospitality, which is intertwined with their artistic mission. Staff members are trained to engage with guests in ways that enhance their appreciation for the art and history presented within the hotel. This focus on hospitality extends beyond traditional definitions, offering solace and restorative experiences for visitors, including families facing difficult situations. The overall aim is to connect with guests on a personal level, providing them a refuge and a space to reflect amidst their travels.
Future Growth and Innovations
The 21C Museum Hotels plan to expand their reach while enhancing their digital presence with a new website. The goal is to increase accessibility to information about their unique offerings and art collections. As part of a larger hotel group, they are poised for growth, exploring new locations that align with their mission of providing accessible contemporary art to wider communities. Upcoming announcements indicate potential new venues and developments within the chain aimed at enriching the experience for both travelers and locals interested in art.
This week on “Out of Office: A Travel Podcast,” Kiernan chats with Sarah Robbins, the COO of 21C Museum Hotels, a unique chain that combines modern art and comfortable accommodations. They talk through what it takes to run both a thriving hospitality business AND a compelling art operation. Plus,