USA, Los Angeles, California. January 13, 2026

The Boutique & Luxury Lodging Association ( BLLA ) is proud to announce that Lark Hotels has renewed its membership, strengthening its alliance with BLLA's growing network of leading boutique and lifestyle hospitality brands. This continued partnership underscores the belief that independent hotels thrive when supported by community, education, and collaboration.

Where Lark's Vision Meets BLLA's Mission

Founded on the belief that hotels should reflect the spirit of their surroundings and the people who bring them to life, Lark Hotels has built a national portfolio rooted in individuality, experience, and operational excellence. Since its founding in 2012 by hospitality entrepreneur Rob Blood, Lark has grown into a collective of nearly 100 independent, design-forward hotels and restaurants across the United States, spanning six distinct brands: Lark Hotels, Bluebird by Lark, AWOL, Blind Tiger, Lark Independent, and Life House.

Lark blends creative freedom with hands-on expertise, guiding owners through development and operations while honoring each property's history. Focused on long-term success, Lark empowers hotels to break the mold while maintaining financial and operational strength, serving as a trusted partner, advisor, and advocate to owners, teams, and guests.

This commitment to experiential hospitality and independent spirit closely aligns with BLLA's mission to champion global boutique hotels that prioritize originality over uniformity and connection over convention.

Strategic Rationale for Renewing Membership

Peter Twachtman, CEO of Lark Hotels, shares the guiding sentiment behind their belief in BLLA and its hotel membership representation:

"Lark remains aligned with and committed to BLLA's mission to unify, empower, educate, and advocate for independent luxury lodging. BLLA's voice and megaphone serve as a catalyst to push the industry forward, and we're proud to partner alongside them to ensure independent lodging remains at the forefront of hospitality."

Lark Hotels sought a platform that transcends traditional membership and emphasizes holistic professional growth. They were drawn to BLLA's triad of pillars:

• Community - peer-to-peer learning and idea exchange
• Education - continuous skill-building through workshops and seminars
• Advocacy - access to resources, mentorship, and best practices

Lark Properties Participating in BLLA

The full Lark Hotels portfolio will engage in BLLA's membership program, gaining access to a robust network of collaboration, education, and industry insight. A few properties stepping into this renewed partnership include:

• AWOL Kennebunkport - A private, nature-inspired escape nestled in serene pine groves, offering a quiet retreat alongside the lively charm of Kennebunkport's village.
• Blind Tiger Asheville - A soulful, design-forward retreat in Asheville, blending thoughtfully curated spaces, local flavors, and immersive city experiences with the warmth of a welcoming guesthouse.
• The Merchant - A historic, artfully crafted retreat in Salem, where preserved 18th-century architecture meets modern luxury, offering a uniquely storied experience in the heart of downtown.

How BLLA Empowers Lark Hotels

BLLA supports Lark's ambition to continually push boundaries in the hospitality landscape by offering:

• Exclusive access to curated educational programs for boutique leaders
• Networking events-both in-person and virtual-connecting executives with peers and thought leaders
• A repository of research, toolkits, and mentorship networks to strengthen internal support structures

• Introduction of proposed new boutique hotel projects from both the management and investment perspectives through BLLA's Boutique Money Group division

This holistic support helps Lark Hotels stay ahead of new hotel development and investment, industry trends, streamline operations, and nurture leadership across all properties.

Executive Commentary

"Lark Hotels represents the heart of independent hospitality operators who lead with creativity, resilience, and deep respect for place," said Frances Kiradjian, Founder & CEO of BLLA. "Their renewed membership reflects a shared belief that boutique hotels thrive when community and knowledge are prioritized alongside individuality."

"Lark's hands-on approach and unwavering commitment to independent owners make them a natural fit within the BLLA community," added Ariela Kiradjian, Partner & COO of BLLA. "Together, we continue to champion hotels that break the mold while building sustainable, long-term success."

The Value of Association Membership

Membership in BLLA signifies more than affiliation-it reflects shared values and a commitment to boutique excellence.

Lark Hotels joins the best in boutique to continue the global mission of BLLA which is:

"To counteract corporate monotony and champion creativity. To forget the forgettable and forge the once-in-a-lifetime. To break down doors and link the most brilliant minds in the industry. To build on our now 16-year legacy of reimagining the multifaceted future of boutique-together."

About Lark Hotels

Founded in 2012, Lark Hotels is a hospitality management company dedicated to growing and supporting experiential, design-driven independent hotels across the United States. With a portfolio of nearly 100 hotels and restaurants spanning six distinct brands, Lark partners closely with owners to create financially sound, character-rich properties rooted in a strong sense of place. Known for its hands-on approach, data-informed decision-making, and commitment to preserving each property's individuality, Lark empowers independent hotels to thrive without sacrificing creativity or soul.