Tuesday, July 1, 2025
The Richardson Hotel Buffalo, an architectural gem located on the Richardson Olmsted Campus, is officially transitioning back to the management of its non-profit board, marking the end of a four-year partnership with Douglas Development. This shift represents the next chapter in the evolving story of the Richardson Olmsted Campus, a National Historic Landmark that has faced both challenges and triumphs since the hotel’s inception in 2017.
Douglas Jemal Steps Away After Successful Revitalization Efforts
In a statement issued today, the Richardson Olmsted Campus Board announced that Douglas Jemal’s company, Douglas Development, would no longer manage the hotel. The transition, effective as of July 1, comes after Jemal and his team played a significant role in reopening the hotel in March 2023 following substantial redesign work. Jemal’s involvement began in 2021 when he took the helm of the struggling hotel, a move that ultimately helped the property regain its standing in Buffalo’s competitive hospitality scene.
Paul R. Hojnacki, Chair of the Richardson Olmsted Campus Board, expressed deep gratitude for Jemal’s efforts during his tenure. “This is a natural progression for the organization, and the board wants to thank Doug Jemal for the effort he put in to running the hotel and his vision for its success,” said Hojnacki. “He stepped in wholeheartedly and gave us a lifeline at a critical moment.”
Jemal himself reflected on the experience, expressing pride in the project’s outcome. “We accomplished what I set out to do—preserve a National Historic Landmark for Western New York, and we spent millions in the process,” said Jemal. He acknowledged that for the benefit of both the hotel and his other projects, it was time to return full control to the non-profit board.
The Richardson Olmsted Campus: A Historic Landmark
The Richardson Olmsted Campus, which houses the Richardson Hotel, is a striking example of 19th-century architecture. Originally constructed in 1880 as the Buffalo State Asylum, it was designed by the renowned architect Henry Hobson Richardson. The campus, with its distinctive Medina sandstone towers, is a key part of Buffalo’s historical fabric and a major focus of preservation efforts in the region.
The hotel itself opened in 2017 under the management of INNvest Lodging Services, and quickly became a beloved destination for its stunning design and public spaces, including a restaurant and gallery. However, the COVID-19 pandemic led to a severe downturn in the hospitality industry, forcing the hotel to close temporarily. In 2021, Douglas Development stepped in to take over operations, embarking on an ambitious renovation project that culminated in the hotel’s reopening in 2023.
A Smooth Transition and a Stable Future for Staff
One of the main priorities for the Richardson Olmsted Campus Board during this transition is to ensure a smooth continuation of operations. According to Hojnacki, the guest experience will remain unchanged, and the board is committed to fulfilling its vision for the campus.
“The Richardson Hotel is an important part of Buffalo’s history and its future,” Hojnacki remarked. “We are confident that this seamless transition of operations will allow us to fulfill our vision for this incredible campus.”
An important aspect of this transition is the retention of staff jobs. The Richardson Hotel, which initially employed 25 people, expanded to 60 employees as operations ramped up during the summer. The board has assured that these jobs will remain secure, helping to provide a stable future for the hotel’s dedicated team.
Exploring Future Partnerships with Local Institutions
As the hotel returns to the oversight of its non-profit board, there are growing discussions about how to elevate the guest experience and integrate the hotel more deeply into the vibrant cultural scene of Buffalo. One suggestion from Hojnacki is to explore potential partnerships with nearby cultural institutions, such as the Buffalo AKG Art Museum, which is located just a short distance from the hotel.
“The museum is a world-class institution, and there could be a wonderful synergy between our hotel and the museum’s expertise in interior design,” Hojnacki said. “A collaboration could help infuse new life into the hotel’s interiors, bringing a fresh artistic touch to the walls and hallways.”
Incorporating contemporary art into the hotel’s design would be a bold step away from the traditional historic photographs that currently adorn the hotel’s walls. By partnering with the Buffalo AKG Art Museum, the Richardson Hotel could become a dynamic cultural hub, further enhancing its role as a cultural and architectural landmark in Buffalo.
A Bright Future for the Richardson Hotel
Looking ahead, both the Richardson Olmsted Campus Board and Doug Jemal remain optimistic about the future of the Richardson Hotel. “We cannot thank Douglas enough for the effort he put into saving the hotel and ensuring a smooth transition going forward,” Hojnacki concluded. “We look forward to a successful future and are confident that the Richardson Hotel will continue to thrive as an integral part of the Buffalo community.”
As the non-profit board takes full control, the Richardson Hotel Buffalo is poised for a new era, one that embraces both its historical significance and future potential. With a renewed focus on community engagement, arts collaborations, and a commitment to preservation, the hotel is positioned to remain a cherished destination for years to come.
Sources:
- Richardson Olmsted Campus Official Website
- Buffalo AKG Art Museum Official Website
- National Park Service – National Historic Landmarks Program
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