The 29-room Dexter Hotel opened in Elk Rapids, Mich., bringing a design-forward, boutique property to the Lake Michigan destination.
The Dexter sourced furniture from regional producers. Photo Credit: Charles Aydlett Photography
The Dexter Hotel, built into a former apartment building in the village of Elk Rapids, north of Traverse City, opened in May and is opening its restaurant and bar in stages this month.
The property's designers focused on using regional producers to give the hotel a contemporary design and reflect Michigan's reputation as an epicenter for mid-century modern furniture.
Custom sofas, chairs, furniture, lighting and ceramics are all Michigan-made, down to drapery sewn by a local seamstress. Material choices also reflect Michigan natural resources, including white oak furniture in the guest rooms and copper accents in the bar and reception area. Artwork features original pieces by Michigan artists Martyna Alexander, Pier Wright and Jesse Hickman.
The property's Noble Bar opened July 4 and the restaurant, Noble Lounge, will follow later this month. Overlooking the Grand Traverse Bay and helmed by executive chef John Korycki, the menu of shareable plates will feature seasonal Northern Michigan farms and artisans, including cheesemakers from Suttons Bay and Northport.
The Dexter Hotel's opening comes soon after the Northern Michigan destination's Cherry Capital Airport in Traverse City launched a $120 million expansion in April, with completion expected by spring 2028, tripling the airport's capacity and making the region increasingly accessible from major cities.