Soho House and Chicago Athletic Association Developer Lists Michigan Home for $5 Million

April 28, 2026 - 18:44

Ben Weprin, the hospitality entrepreneur behind the Graduate hotel chain and developer of iconic properties including Soho House Chicago and the Chicago Athletic Association, has placed his New Buffalo, Michigan residence on the market for $5 million. Weprin, who now operates his business from Nashville, built his reputation through AJ Capital Partners, a firm that transformed boutique hospitality before selling the Graduate hotel portfolio to Hilton for $210 million.

The lakefront property reflects the same design-forward sensibility that defined Weprin’s commercial projects. Located in the Harbor Country community along Lake Michigan’s shoreline, the home features contemporary architecture with expansive windows, private beach access, and custom interiors that blend rustic materials with modern finishes. Real estate records indicate the residence spans multiple levels with several bedrooms, a gourmet kitchen, and outdoor living spaces designed for entertaining.

Weprin’s AJ Capital Partners gained prominence for acquiring and repositioning historic buildings into luxury hotels and members’ clubs. The firm’s portfolio included the transformation of the former Chicago Athletic Association building into a 241-room hotel, as well as the development of Soho House’s Chicago outpost. The Graduate hotel chain, which operated university-adjacent boutique hotels across the United States, became a signature achievement before its sale to Hilton in 2022.

The New Buffalo listing comes as Weprin continues to focus on new ventures from his Nashville base, where AJ Capital Partners maintains headquarters. The property is being marketed through a local brokerage specializing in luxury waterfront estates.