In what it's calling an industry first, Starwood Hotels & Resorts' new extended-stay brand, Element, will commit to the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED certification on a property-wide scale. Element will make its debut this summer and more than 20 hotels are set to open by the end of next year.
"Leading the way in hotel innovations is part of Starwood’s DNA and fundamental to our success," said Frits van Paasschen, Starwood’s CEO. "By testing and refining ELEMENT in our own laboratory, we are developing an economically responsible LEED-certified hotel concept that is accessible to developers and designed to be replicated, promising a more sustainable future."
Element's green features are designed to be environmentally-friendly without losing any aesthetic appeal. They include: energy efficient stainless steel appliances and lighting, water-efficient faucets and fixtures and bins for paper, plastic and glass.
Element's other features include Westin's Heavenly Bed, spa-like bathrooms with oversize showers, complimentary breakfast and amenities like bikes for guest use. Visit www.starwoodhotels.com.