Ian Schrager and Steve Rubell

Ian Schrager and Steve Rubell (1943-1989), co-founders of the New York club Studio 54, invented the boutique hotel category in 1984 by opening Morgans in Manhattan. The Royalton and Paramount, designed by Philippe Starck, followed. After Rubell's death, Schrager continued alone and placed design and nightlife atmosphere at the heart of urban hospitality.