In Rotterdam, ESG values & UN Sustainable Development Goals inform every decision at The Usual, the Green Key-certified prototype with forthcoming BREEAM ‘Excellent’ or ‘Outstanding’ ranking. The designers‘ vision? Make conscious travel a force for good through regenerative hospitality that goes beyond traditional sustainability practices to actively improve the environment & society. The interior architect’s FF&E research developing this new brand’s standards enabled the use of sustainable & circular products in the listed, 207-key hotel with long-stay studios. The meticulous, time-consuming process required greater upfront expense by the developers but is forecast to be recouped from lower operational costs in years to come. Interior concepts strengthen community & knowledge-sharing amongst guests & local experts, while biophilic greenery & natural materials instil openness & wellbeing. Terrazzo tile offcuts form The U Bar’s mosaic cladding, & barstools are made from coffee shell & plastic waste. Upcycled flea-market-finds introduce history & soul, plus a huge ‘Connect Four’ game becomes a room divider by the ping-pong table. Artists can craft & sell creations in The MakersStudio
