US – Recognising that many existing hotels can be damaging for the environment, Hilton is renovating its Hotel Marcel New Haven into a net-zero destination. Having originally been built in 1970, the hotel’s retrofitting project will see its 165 rooms and suites use energy produced from on-site solar panels. Other sustainable features include an energy-efficient lighting system, as well as repurposed building materials such as restored wood panelling and light fixtures.
In addition to its infrastructural updates, Hotel Marcel will also promote eco-friendly behaviours among guests, with electric vehicle chargers, locally sourced meals and water refill stations. Here, Hilton recognises the importance of building eco-consciousness into its brand values, while future-proofing its accommodation. ‘We are all responsible for confronting the climate crisis, and that sense of obligation was factored into every decision we made in creating Hotel Marcel New Haven,’ says Becker + Becker, the architectural firm behind the project.
As we explore in Repurposed Resorts, there is an ongoing opportunity for hoteliers to upgrade existing buildings, often a less environmentally damaging and more cost-effective approach to greener travel.
Startegic opportunity
Beyond hotels, leisure spaces from restaurants to cinemas can take inspiration from this project. How might your brand begin to retrofit buildings in line with sustainable credentials?