First Hospitality to Manage 81-Room Historian Hotel in Madison

First Hospitality will manage the upcoming 81-room Historian Hotel in Madison, Wisconsin, operating under Marriott International’s Tribute Portfolio. Slated to open in the first quarter of 2027, the property is a joint redevelopment by Hovde Properties and Mountain Shore Properties of the 111-year-old Churchill Building opposite the State Capitol. [1]

What is the historical background of the Churchill Building?

The upcoming Historian Hotel will occupy the Churchill Building, a 111-year-old structure located at 16 N. Carroll Street in downtown Madison. [1] According to Hotels Magazine, this nine-story property is recognized as the first skyscraper ever constructed in the city of Madison. [2] The building is a Beaux-Arts landmark positioned directly across the street from the Wisconsin State Capitol. [1] Hovde Properties and Mountain Shore Properties are partnering to repurpose the historic asset into a boutique hotel that honors its architectural legacy. [2]

Stephen Wendell, CEO of Mountain Shore Properties, described the property as an incredible asset situated in an exceptional location directly across from the State Capitol. [1] Wendell stated that the joint venture is proud to partner with Hovde Properties and First Hospitality on a landmark project that restores turn-of-the-century charm while shepherding the property into a new era for discerning guests. [2] The conversion of the 111-year-old Churchill Building will breathe new life into the historic site. [1]

Who is executing the design and architectural vision?

The physical transformation of the nine-story skyscraper is being directed by a team of specialized design and architectural firms. [1] Angus Young, a local architecture firm, is leading the overall revitalization and structural update of the building. [2]

Parts & Labor has been appointed to oversee the interior design program for the 81-room property. [1] HospitalityNet reported that the renovation will meticulously restore several original architectural features of the Beaux-Arts landmark rather than replacing them. [1] These preserved elements will include the building's original Beaux-Arts façade, its intricate interior staircases, and the historic mosaic tilework found throughout the property. [2]

In addition to the physical design, the brand identity and unique narrative for the Historian Hotel were developed by B&Co. [1] The management team will work alongside the developers to deliver an elevated experience that blends this authentic storytelling with modern hospitality. [2]

How will the hotel integrate Madison's history into the guest experience?

The developers and management team plan to deeply integrate the local history of Madison into the daily guest experience. [1] To achieve this, the interior design strategy dictates that each floor of the nine-story building will be dedicated to a specific person or group that helped shape the history of the city. [2] This thematic approach is intended to create a meaningful narrative connection for guests staying in the property, ensuring the hotel honors its place in history. [1]

What culinary offerings will the property feature?

Food and beverage operations will be anchored on the ground floor of the Historian Hotel. [1] The space will house a new culinary concept designed to complement the lifestyle positioning of the Tribute Portfolio property. [2] According to Hotels Magazine, the restaurant will be led by Dan Jacobs, an acclaimed chef based in Milwaukee. [2]

How does this project impact First Hospitality's regional footprint?

The management agreement for the Historian Hotel represents First Hospitality's official debut in the Madison market. [1] While it is their first operation in the city, it will become the management company's eleventh property within the state of Wisconsin. [2]

The hotel will operate as part of Marriott International’s Tribute Portfolio, a soft-branded collection that allows independent hotels to maintain their unique branding while utilizing Marriott's distribution systems. [1] David Duncan, president and CEO of First Hospitality, stated that the project reflects the power of shared vision, trust, and true collaboration. [2] He noted that strong owner relationships are central to the company's approach, and the firm is grateful for the opportunity to partner with Hovde Properties and Mountain Shore Properties. [1] Duncan added that the firm looks forward to growing its lifestyle portfolio and expanding its relationship with Marriott’s soft-branded collection through this partnership. [2]

Why did the ownership group select First Hospitality?

Hovde Properties and Mountain Shore Properties selected First Hospitality to manage the asset due to their shared commitment to the lifestyle hotel category. [1] Randy Guenther, president of Hovde Properties, stated that the partners must align to achieve high standards for best-in-class guest experiences. [2]

Guenther identified First Hospitality’s fluency in the lifestyle category and their track record of owner satisfaction as the factors that made them the clear choice for the contract. [1] He added that the management company shares the ownership's vision for what the property can be, and they are building it together as trusted partners. [2] Guenther expressed confidence that with its historic landmark setting, thoughtful design, and exceptional management, the hotel will be the best in Madison. [1]

What is the background of the management company?

First Hospitality is a national hotel operations and development firm, operating as a development, investment, and third-party operating company. [1] Founded 40 years ago, the organization manages a portfolio of branded, lifestyle, and independent properties, along with a portfolio of restaurants and bars located throughout the United States. [1] According to HospitalityNet, the foundation of the company's success is built on an individualized approach that puts people first, encourages a strong ownership culture, and consistently demonstrates astute business acumen. [1] The company and its hotels are frequently recognized by the industry and media for high guest service and associate satisfaction, including accolades from Forbes, Condé Nast, TripAdvisor, and AAA. [1]

What is the project timeline and team structure?

The Historian Hotel is currently scheduled to open its doors to guests in the first quarter of 2027. [1] The complete project team involves multiple regional and national partners coordinating the redevelopment of the 81-room property. [2]