"We are a Victorian house burdened by optimism."

– Cognac Franklin

What happens when historic charm collides with a new vision for community connection?

In this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Cognac Franklin, Director of Operations at Stonebreaker—Fayetteville's stunning hotel, club, and gathering space perched atop Markham Hill.

Cognac takes us through the rich history of this unique property, from its origins as the Pratt family homestead and bed & breakfast to its recent transformation into a community-centered haven that honors the past while embracing the future.

You'll hear about Stonebreaker's distinctive approach to hospitality, membership, and intentional design—where every guest is treated like family, whether they're checking in for the night, enjoying club membership perks, or simply stopping by for a quiet cup of coffee.

Discover how Stonebreaker is creating a true "third space" for the community—a place for relaxing, collaborating, celebrating, or finding a moment of tranquility at one of Fayetteville's highest points.

Whether you're new to Northwest Arkansas or a lifelong local, this conversation illuminates how connecting to place and purpose brings people together in meaningful ways.

Key Takeaways:

1. Blending History and Modern Hospitality: Stonebreaker honors Markham Hill’s heritage, integrating touches from its farm, summer camp, and music festival past into a contemporary, welcoming environment.
2. Community, Not Exclusivity: Despite being a private club, Stonebreaker’s mission is rooted in inclusivity—emphasizing a social, open-door approach for locals and newcomers alike.
3. Building a Unique “Third Space”: Stonebreaker offers more than just a hotel or restaurant. It’s intentionally designed for collaboration, creativity, relaxation, and connection as Fayetteville grows and evolves.
4. Intentional Design & Thoughtful Experiences: Every element, from the hotel rooms to the club amenities and the grounds, is curated to spark conversation, learning, and belonging.
5. Membership with a Purpose: Club members play a direct role in shaping the community and experiences at Stonebreaker, ensuring it remains responsive and meaningful for Northwest Arkansas residents.

All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.

1. Stonebreaker Hotel and Restaurant Fayetteville | stonebreakerhotel.com
2. Stonebreaker on LinkedIn
3. Stonebreaker on Facebook