Ian Schrager

Ian Schrager is an entrepreneur, hotelier, and real estate developer renowned for revolutionizing nightlife and hospitality. He co-founded the iconic Studio 54 nightclub and pioneered the boutique hotel concept, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

Raised in Brooklyn, New York, Schrager was influenced by his parents' keen sense of style and sophistication, despite their modest means. His father, Louis, owned a women's coat factory and was known for his impeccable taste. Schrager earned a BA from Syracuse University, where he met future business partner Steve Rubell through their fraternity, Sigma Alpha Mu. He later obtained a JD from St. John's University School of Law in 1971.

In 1977, Schrager and Rubell opened Studio 54 in Manhattan, transforming a former CBS television studio into a legendary nightclub. Known for its theatrical design and exclusive atmosphere, Studio 54 became synonymous with the disco era's glamour and excess. The club's success was marred by legal issues; in 1979, Schrager and Rubell were convicted of tax evasion and served prison sentences. In 2017, Schrager received a full pardon from President Barack Obama.

After Studio 54, Schrager and Rubell ventured into hospitality, opening Morgans Hotel in New York City in 1984. Designed by Andrée Putman, it introduced the boutique hotel concept—characterized by stylish design, personalized service, and unique ambiance. This innovation redefined luxury accommodations and led to the creation of the Morgans Hotel Group, which included properties like the Royalton and Paramount Hotels.

Following Rubell's death in 1989, Schrager founded the Ian Schrager Company, focusing on developing hotels and residential projects that blend luxury with cultural relevance. Notable ventures include the transformation of the Gramercy Park Hotel and the development of 40 Bond Street, designed by Herzog & de Meuron. In collaboration with Marriott International, Schrager launched the EDITION Hotels brand, merging boutique sensibilities with global reach.

Schrager's visionary approach has consistently captured the zeitgeist, influencing both nightlife and hospitality industries. His legacy endures through his innovative concepts and commitment to creating immersive experiences.