Green is the new black when it comes to The Proximity Hotel in Greensboro, North Carolina. My two questions are:Why hasn't someone thought of this sooner, and why are some of the specifications for the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Green Rating System not standard for twenty-first century buildings and construction?

The first LEED Platinum Hotel in North America, this impressive piece of art uses 41% less energy than standard hotels by incorporating modern technology with alternative energy sources.The Hotel and its upscale restaurant, Print Works Bistro, are named for two cotton mills in Greensboro during the turn of the 19th century, Proximity Cotton Mill and Proximity Print Works.

Print Works Bistro, the hotel's upscale restaurant, is also following the green movement. The Bistro will soon be home to a vegetated rooftop in order to reduce the amount of energy needed for air conditioning and refrigeration by reflecting and absorbing the sun's heat. The bar is made of reclaimed walnut trees.

The Proximity Hotel is sustainable in every practice and area of the hotel from soil to rooftop.When constructing the hotel, builders made sure to reduce erosion, conserve soil and stream, planting local species to enhance the gardens which surround the building. Indoor toxins are reduced by the use of low-emitting volatile organic compound carpets, adhesives, and paints. The building is composed of recycled steel, asphalt, concrete, and wallboard. Eighty-seven percent of waste from the construction was recycled. Even the Otis Gen2 elevator is energy efficient! Sixty percent of the hotel and restaurant's water is heated by the 100 solar panels on top of The Proximity's roof.

Just because it is "green" and focuses on conservation, the Proximity does not skimp on amenities. Complimentary airport transportation, Wi-Fi, Safe Deposit boxes, cable TV, Aveda toiletries, and bikes to ride on Greensboro's Greenway are available to all guests. The pool is hidden in an oasis of greenery. The fitness center is accessible 24 hours a day and loaded with exercise options. Banquet, conference and event rooms are ideal for business or special events. The hotel is accented with orchids, abundant natural lighting, spiral staircases, a "floating" reception desk in the lobby, and original artwork by local artist, Chip Holton.

In 2008, Fortune named The Proximity one of the top 50 hotels in the world. My husband and I stayed at this marvel for our first anniversary and ever since, I am desperate to return!

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