THE ROLE OF ESG IN ARCHITECTURE

ESG-inspired hotel design is gaining prominence. Hoteliers and architects help deconstruct the trend.

- SAYLI MOHITE

Hotels have stepped up their sustainability game by putting in place an ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) programme, which has now become a core operational aspect of the industry.

In the long-term, however, ESG practices are known to improve profitability, elevate company returns, nurture retail hospitality talent, build resilience, reduce risks and show a significant increase in customer loyalty.

Hotels have stepped up their sustainability game by putting in place an ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) programme, which has now become a core operational aspect of the industry.

In the long-term, however, ESG practices are known to improve profitability, elevate company returns, nurture retail hospitality talent, build resilience, reduce risks and show a significant increase in customer loyalty.

DECODING ESG IN DESIGN

These practices have now been taken ahead in the hotel's architecture and design as well. Here, ESG refers to how businesses use their buildings and spaces to invest in environmental and social initiatives.

Rajneesh Malhotra, Chief Operating Officer, Chalet Hotels Limited, explains, "Most of our hotels are operated and managed by our brand partners, Marriott and Accor. Both are leading global hotel companies and their commitment to ESG is very much in sync with Chalet's ESG goals. Our hotel designs reflect a holistic approach towards ESG, integrating environmental, social and governance considerations into the design and architecture.

Four of our buildings are USGB Gold LEED certified, and we have announced that all our future developments will also opt for LEED certification. Our new hotel developments follow biophilic designs with a focus on elements like indoor air quality, ventilation, natural light, acoustics etc to ensure the comfort and well-being of all users.