In a notable shift for one of Buffalo’s most iconic properties, the Richardson Hotel Buffalo has officially returned to non-profit control under the Richardson Olmsted Campus Board, marking the end of a transformative four-year partnership with Douglas Development Corporation. The transition, effective July 1, 2025, signals a new phase focused on community engagement, cultural collaboration, and the continued preservation of this National Historic Landmark.
The hotel, housed within the grand Richardson Olmsted Campus, is not only a testament to 19th-century architectural brilliance but also a symbol of Buffalo’s broader urban revitalization efforts. With the hotel now back under non-profit management, local leaders aim to strengthen its role as both a destination for visitors and a hub for cultural exchange.
A Landmark’s Journey Through Restoration and Rebirth
Constructed in 1880 as part of the former Buffalo State Asylum, the campus was designed by famed architect Henry Hobson Richardson and landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted. Featuring signature Medina sandstone towers and Romanesque architecture, the structure is widely recognized as one of Buffalo’s most valuable historic assets.
The Richardson Hotel officially opened in 2017 as part of an ambitious adaptive reuse project, originally operated by INNvest Lodging Services. Despite early success, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted business, prompting temporary closure and an uncertain future. In 2021, Douglas Jemal, founder of Douglas Development, stepped in to rescue the property, investing millions in renovations and breathing new life into the dormant hotel.
Under Jemal’s leadership, the Richardson Hotel reopened in March 2023 with redesigned interiors, enhanced guest amenities, and renewed operational focus—quickly regaining popularity as a boutique destination with architectural gravitas.
Leadership Transition with Gratitude and Optimism
The transition from private to non-profit management has been framed as both amicable and strategic. Paul R. Hojnacki, Chair of the Richardson Olmsted Campus Board, acknowledged Jemal’s vital role during a critical juncture.
“This is a natural progression for the organization,” said Hojnacki. “Doug Jemal gave us a lifeline when we needed it most. His commitment and investment ensured the hotel’s survival and revival.”
Jemal echoed this sentiment, stating, “We accomplished what we set out to do—preserve a National Historic Landmark for Western New York. Now it’s time for the community to lead the next chapter.”
Stable Employment and Operational Continuity
One of the most reassuring aspects of the transition is the commitment to preserving jobs and maintaining guest service quality. From its reopening in 2023 with around 25 staff members, the hotel has since grown to employ nearly 60 team members, many of whom are expected to stay on under the new management.
Hojnacki emphasized that the guest experience will remain uninterrupted. “Our guests will continue to enjoy the same high standards of service, while our board steers the hotel toward greater community alignment and cultural enrichment.”
Envisioning a Cultural Renaissance in Collaboration with Local Institutions
Looking ahead, the non-profit board is exploring partnerships with leading cultural institutions to enhance the hotel’s identity as a center of arts, design, and community connection. One such potential collaboration is with the nearby Buffalo AKG Art Museum, known for its rich collection of modern and contemporary art.
“The museum is just blocks away, and we see great potential in working together,” said Hojnacki. “Infusing local artwork and modern design elements into the hotel’s interiors could give guests an immersive cultural experience that extends beyond accommodation.”
This would mark a departure from the current décor, which primarily features archival photographs. By rotating exhibitions and collaborating with local artists, the hotel could become a living canvas for Buffalo’s thriving arts scene—turning its halls and rooms into a curated experience for guests and locals alike.
Preserving Heritage While Innovating for the Future
With the transition complete, the Richardson Hotel is set to deepen its role as a beacon of heritage tourism, drawing both history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. The Richardson Olmsted Campus itself continues to evolve, with ongoing restoration projects, walking tours, and public programming aimed at reconnecting the community with this architectural treasure.
The City of Buffalo, once overlooked, has seen a resurgence in recent years thanks to increased investment in tourism, arts, and heritage-based development. According to Visit Buffalo Niagara, hotel occupancy and tourism revenues have steadily climbed since 2023, signaling the city’s comeback as a cultural and travel destination.
A Community-Driven Future for the Richardson Hotel
Now in full control, the Richardson Olmsted Campus Board has an opportunity to align the hotel’s future with community values—balancing hospitality with history and innovation with preservation.
As Hojnacki concluded, “We are entering a new era—one where the Richardson Hotel can shine as a cultural, architectural, and civic landmark. With our community’s support and creative partnerships, we’re excited to shape the next chapter.”
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