h2hotel Commitment To The Environment Earns LEED Gold Certification, By Melody Schubert & Leroy Worley

Located just off the historic town plaza in Healdsburg, the h2hotel is proud it is the first LEED Gold certified hotel in Sonoma County. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification recognizes h2hotel's commitment to protecting the environment.

Nature Unites With Comfort At h2hotel

The h2hotel is designed to use 27.8% less energy than the standard hotel in California. Guests at the h2hotel will be embraced by sophisticated sense of space and style that offers comfort and world class amenities. The hotel rises four stories with 36 guest rooms, and during construction guest will be impressed to know that over 85% of h2hotel’s construction debris was recycled. Every effort to preserve and embrace nature while offering guests all the comforts of a home away from home have been incorporated into the creation of the h2hotel.

When arriving, you'll notice the “Spoonfall,” a whimsical water sculpture that is sustained by an underground cistern, which is replenished by natural rainfall captured from the green roof. In addition to the native drought tolerant species you'll find planted around the h2hotel, they've also included a living roof that has undulating green roof filters and lessens the impact of rainwater runoff on Foss Creek and reduces wear on the city’s storm-drain system.

For those who take advantage of the h2hotel's expansive meeting space take a moment to take note of the custom furnishings, exterior wood decking, main stair, and meeting room floors. All of which are made from salvaged lumber that include American elm, acacia, and black walnut.

The h2hotel's commitment to the environment is evident by the sustainable practices incorporated into the day to day operations of this hotel. Every light, fan and air conditioner on the property is controlled by occupancy sensors to reduce electricity use when guest rooms are empty. solar panels on the roof are used to reduce electricity consumption, and heat the swimming pool and hot water in guest rooms.

In the guest rooms, you'll also find glass water carafes that can be filled at the custom-made water bars located on each floor, which provide purified sparkling and still water. At the h2hotel's onsite restaurant, Spoonbar, you'll discover a menu that is carefully created using seasonal ingredients and artisan-crafted products from local purveyors.

Liquors served are also received from small-batch producers, many of which are local or certified organic. The herbs, fruits and even garnishes used in crafting beverages are from local organic growers, while the wine list emphasizes sustainable and local producers. In addition to the complimentary house-purified sparkling and flat water, the restaurant also offers six wines on tap, which eliminating excess packaging and spoilage.

The h2hotel's commitment rolls on through their offering of complimentary Dutch cruising bicycles that allow you to explore the natural beauty of Healdsburg during your stay. The h2hotel's caring approach to the environment and their guests is evident by the friendly and professional staff that greets you, who can assist you in enjoying a memorable getaway!

Plan Your California Getaway

To plan your escape to the h2hotel, and learn more about their LEED certification visit their web site at www.h2hotel.com.

To learn more about events and attractions throughout California, visit the California Travel and Tourism Commission for packages and to order a Free Vacation Guide at www. visitcalifornia.com.