North Carolina’s Proximity Hotel and Print Works Bistro are the first in the hospitality industry to achieve platinum certification from the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design program.

“When we started the design process four years ago, I would have never believed that we could use 41 percent less energy and 33 percent less water without one iota of compromise in comfort or luxury and with minimal additional construction costs,” said Dennis Quaintance, CEO and chief design officer of parent company Quaintance-Weaver Restaurants and Hotels. “It just goes to show what a determined team can accomplish if they use common sense and get a little bit of help from the sun.”

The businesses—in Greensboro, N.C.—have 100 solar rooftop panels that heat water for the AAA Four Diamond hotel.

Quaintance collaborated with subcontractors on many details and personally tested most products.

“We finally found one that works wonderfully and uses a third of a gallon less with each flush, and it did not cost one cent more than a conventional toilet,” he said.

The hotel and restaurant is on track to save 2 million gallons of water in the first year—a savings of more than $13,000.

“I've come to believe that it is an urban legend that employing sustainable practices with new construction is too expensive,” Quaintance said. “We are very happy with the results, including the costs and returns, of everything that we did. It’s not easy—but it’s not hard, and it’s definitely worth it.”

Some of Proximity and Print Works environmental features include:

• Recycled 87 percent all 1,535 tons of construction debris.
• Forty percent of the building materials are from local sources.
• Used more than 20 percent recycled content.
• Restored 700 feet of an adjacent stream.
• Installed the first regenerative drive elevators in North America, generating electricity on the descent for the ascent.
• Ninety-seven percent of occupied space is lit with natural lighting.
• Used energy recovery systems to fresh outside air to guests.
• Sourced 90 percent of the furniture locally.
• Commissioned local artists and craftspeople for original art in every guestroom, a cantilevered reception desk, spiral staircases in the lobby, furniture and accessories.

“Proximity Hotel is especially to be commended for achieving LEED Platinum. This facility is one that both the community and its guests can be proud of,” said Rick Fedrizzi—president, CEO and founding chair of the USGBC.

“Proximity is a showcase for high-performance, energy-efficient, healthy environment and an inspiration for others.”