STAY OPEN, the Los Angeles-based startup transforming unused commercial space into affordable, socially engaging pod hotels and co-living properties, has announced the appointment of film director Ben Fee as Chief Creative Officer (CCO) to oversee brand strategy and creative design for the “Sleep As A Service” platform.
In his new position, Fee—who lives between Malmö, Sweden and Los Angeles—will manage content strategy, along with design for STAY OPEN’s web and proprietary app, which will match guests and residences, while introducing local experiences in each destination. Fee will also oversee partnerships, merchandising, and eventually live events for each property, while creating an overall vibe for STAY OPEN properties. In addition, Fee will oversee nonprofit efforts for the brand on issues including homelessness.
With over two decades of experience in the creative and visual arts as a writer, director, photographer and cinematographer—and having worked with visionaries such as Hunter S. Thompson and Academy Award-winning documentary film director and producer Alex Gibney—Fee brings a unique perspective to STAY OPEN, tapping into a well of imagination and aesthetic expertise.
“We are ecstatic to welcome Ben Fee to the STAY OPEN team,” said CEO and co-founder Steve Shpilsky. “Ben is a beautiful creator and visualizer of human experiences whose bold ideas and innovative spirit will elevate the brand — from web and app design to unique, unforgettable experiences for our guests and residents.”
Fee, whose resume includes writing, directing and producing content for MTV, Wieden + Kennedy, Jigsaw Productions and his own Scandinavia Pictures, co-founded and continues to run OMG Cameras Everywhere, a non-profit filmmaking camp for children with locations in Los Angeles, NYC, Oakland and London. He has also written and edited for publications including LADYGUNN, Method and Modart.
Fee joins co-founders Steve Shpilsky, Andrew Swerdloff and Alex Morrise, who conceived the brand with the aim of democratizing how and where people sleep with its affordable, design-forward properties, while encouraging social connection.
