21c Museum Hotels Jobs USA :

21c Museum Hotels – Company Profile

Overview

21c Museum Hotels is a pioneering boutique hotel brand in the United States that uniquely combines contemporary art museums, upscale accommodations, and locally inspired dining. The concept was founded in 2006 with the mission to integrate contemporary art into everyday life and contribute to the cultural and economic revitalization of urban communities.

Founders and Vision

The brand was founded by philanthropists and art collectors Laura Lee Brown and Steve Wilson. Their vision was to preserve and repurpose historic buildings while supporting contemporary artists and creating accessible cultural spaces. The original property in Louisville, Kentucky transformed a set of 19th-century warehouses into a vibrant hospitality and art destination.

Unique Concept

Every 21c Museum Hotel includes:

Contemporary Art Museum: Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and free to the public. These museums host rotating exhibitions and installations by local and international artists.
Boutique Hotel: Stylish, thoughtfully designed rooms and suites that reflect the local character and history of each city.
Chef-Driven Restaurant: On-site dining with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and creative culinary concepts.

This integration makes 21c a cultural hub and travel destination that blurs the line between hotel, museum, and community center.

Locations

21c Museum Hotels currently operates in several U.S. cities, each property offering a distinctive, site-specific experience:

Louisville, Kentucky
Cincinnati, Ohio
Bentonville, Arkansas
Durham, North Carolina
Lexington, Kentucky
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Nashville, Tennessee
Kansas City, Missouri
Chicago, Illinois
St. Louis, Missouri (newest location)

All properties are typically housed in restored historic buildings, maintaining a deep connection with their surrounding neighborhoods.

Ownership and Expansion

In 2018, global hospitality group Accor acquired an 85% stake in 21c Museum Hotels. The founding couple retained a 15% ownership and remain actively involved in creative direction. With this partnership, 21c continues to grow its footprint while preserving its identity and mission.

Guest Profile

21c attracts:

Art enthusiasts
Business travelers
Couples and leisure guests
Locals attending exhibitions or dining
Guests value the brand for its cultural immersion, authenticity, and memorable design.