A 29-room hotel celebrating Michigan craft, local artisans and mid-century design heritage in one of the most exciting destinations in the Midwest US.
The reimagined Dexter Hotel in Elk Rapids, Michigan, one of the region’s first hotels dedicated to contemporary design, regional craft and authentic Michigan heritage, announces its official opening on 19 May 19. With 29 thoughtfully designed rooms and suites and the Noble Lounge – a lively restaurant and bar set just above the pristine Lake Michigan waterfront – Dexter Hotel brings a new standard of elevated-yet-grounded hospitality to one of the Great Lakes’ most beautiful coastal destinations.
Created by the former creative director of Shinola and built by Shore North Development in collaboration with Kinship Hospitality founders Daniel Caudill and Kamron Bijeh-Apple, Dexter Hotel reimagines a former apartment-style building in the charming waterfront town of Elk Rapids, just minutes from Traverse City and its recently expanded Cherry Capital Airport. The vision centres on material honesty, regional production and a design language rooted in Michigan’s influential Mid-century furniture legacy.
Rather than a themed experience, Dexter Hotel offers a modern, sophisticated aesthetic rooted in place through carefully sourced materials, custom fabrication by Michigan makers and curated vintage furniture that honours the state’s design legacy. The aesthetic palette emphasises natural, durable finishes designed to age beautifully: custom white oak furniture anchors the guest rooms, while copper and warm metals define the Noble Lounge bar and reception desk.
Guest rooms are designed to feel like warm, peaceful apartments with muted tones, natural materials, woven textiles and soft upholstery, with gallery walls featuring a mix of artistic styles. Handcrafted Serta mattresses paired with down bedding and Frette linens complete the sleeping experience.
