The Farnam, Autograph Collection
Category
Lifestyle Hotel
Restaurant & Bar
LocationOmaha, NE
ServicesBrand Experience
Interiors: Bespoke
Procurement
Awards & Recognition
#2 Intent to Recommend Premium & Luxury Hotel
Q1 2024
Omaha Metropolitan Area (OMA) Tourism Awards: Best Hotel
2024
Autograph Hotel of the Year
2023
As Brilliantly Unexpected as the City that Inspired It
Located in Omaha’s historic Old Market district, The Farnam Hotel stands as a key part of the city’s revitalization. This upper-upscale hotel, housed within the mixed-use Landmark Tower, reflects Omaha’s hometown pride while offering modern luxury. The project encompassed the design and branding of both the hotel and its signature F&B outlets, enhancing the area’s vibrant hospitality scene.
A Tribute to Omaha’s Visionaries
The Farnam Hotel is a tribute to the ambitions of Omaha’s past and present, honoring the city’s pioneering spirit while embracing its bright future. Named after Henry Farnam, the visionary railroad engineer whose efforts brought the Pacific Railway terminus to Omaha, the hotel embodies the entrepreneurial drive that has shaped the city into Nebraska’s metropolis.The hotel’s branding and interior design were inspired by the Pacific Railroad Act of 1862, reflecting Omaha’s rich history. Patterns resembling railroad tracks and a crest reminiscent of railway stamps are integrated into the design, while the muted color palette and clean architectural lines create a balance between Midwest warmth and contemporary luxury.
Blending modern sophistication with a nod to the city’s industrial roots, The Farnam creates a smart, yet approachable atmosphere, with no unnecessary frills—just honest, elevated service. The hotel provides a home away from home for guests who are ambitious and forward-thinking, much like those who helped build Omaha's legacy. Guests of The Farnam are invited to explore a space that is as multi-faceted and innovative as Omaha itself.
"The reception desk, constructed from reclaimed railroad ties, adds a historical touch, paying homage to the city's rich railway heritage and brand story."
Matt Swope, Director Interiors: Bespoke
"As you enter the lobby, the large black wire light fixtures are a modern interpretation of a prairie flower, blending organic inspiration with contemporary design."
Chris McDonough, Principal Interiors: Bespoke
Custom patterns inspired by railroad tracks are featured on branded materials.
Dynamite Woodfire Grill
Dynamite, The Farnam’s signature restaurant, draws inspiration from Omaha’s historic booms, delivering an explosive dining experience that blends bold flavors with dynamic design. The branding is infused with elements of fire and dynamite, featuring match strike textures and a logo inspired by dynamite packaging and butcher labels. A bold color palette of smoky grays and vibrant reds ties the brand story to the menu’s focus on wood-fired and smoked meats.Inside, the restaurant’s modern industrial aesthetic is elevated with rustic, playful details that create a lively, yet hearty atmosphere. Dynamite offers guests a creative twist on classic smoked meats, combining old-world techniques with contemporary style for a dining experience that’s both familiar and unexpected. The result is a vibrant downtown destination where bold style meets explosive flavor.
The private dining room's dramatic art installation is made of charred beams salvaged from the nearby M's Pub explosion and fire in 2016.
Catalyst—Lobby & Bar
Catalyst, The Farnam's sleek lobby and terrace bar, celebrates the power of small moments of discovery. Whether guests stumble upon their new favorite cocktail or find the perfect spot for Old Market people-watching, Catalyst encourages serendipity and inspiration. Its brand concept revolves around these subtle yet transformative experiences, offering a space for guests to relax, connect, and perhaps spark their next big idea..With taglines like "Celebrating small moments with big flavor" and "A toast—to your next great idea," Catalyst blends understated charm with bold flavors, providing a welcoming space for both locals and visitors to enjoy a fresh perspective on Omaha’s vibrant social scene.
