S3E1 Richard Kessler: Building a legacy in independent luxury hotels

What does it take to shape the future of hotel development while staying true to your vision? In this episode of The Turndown, Richard Kessler, Founder of The Kessler Collection, shares his journey from building budget hotels to becoming a visionary in boutique luxury.

From his first boutique hotel (before anyone really knew what that meant) to shaping the Autograph Collection with Mariott, Richard explains how art, music, and innovative design create guest experiences that keep people coming back. This conversation explores the realities of hotel development today and what it takes to succeed as an independent in a brand-driven world.