A Hotel Room Renovation with Sustainability Front of Mind

How Sustainability and Renovation Coexist in Aspen

Sustainability is especially important here in Aspen. The Aspen Skiing Company (parent company to The Little Nell) fosters and depends on responsible ecological practices, as well as values our valley’s wildlife, clean rivers, lush forests and snowfall in a way that stretches beyond economics.

The “Aspen Experience” is a balance of all the things the town and mountains have to offer. Without these natural, pure elements, The Aspen Experience becomes a pastime.

So when we planned to renovate The Little Nell’s 52 guest rooms, 26 premium guest rooms, and eight junior suites for the spring of 2017, we wanted to be green leaders for other luxury hotels across the world. Here are some of the many ways we’re renovating the rooms, which is underway, with a sustainable approach. You can also follow progress along on social using #NellReno.

Conscientious Upgrades

Making upgrades to our rooms while keeping existing materials takes some creativity. Champalimaud Design was hired to oversee the renovation, known for their conscientious design on notable projects from The Hotel Bel-Air in Los Angeles to The Waldorf Astoria in New York to The Dorchester House in London and more. They have helped create the vision for our guest rooms and suites, from the carpeting to wall coverings to headboards to simple accents and statement pieces like lamps and desk accessories, which can reinvigorate a room and turn it into a piece of artwork.

Reupholstering & Refinishing

We are reupholstering and refinishing 90% of current pieces – including our classic wooden dining tables, headboards, and plush armchairs. This limits waste while still providing luxury pieces for each guest room.

Mattress & Pillow Disposal

We are replacing our mattresses and pillows throughout the hotel so our guests can enjoy even more luxurious comfort. All disposed of mattresses and pillows will go to Habitat for Humanity in the Roaring Fork Valley. These types of donations are needed to help combat homelessness in the valley.

Low VOC Paint

Low VOC paint is better for both the environment and our guests. Limiting these volatile organic compounds in our hotel keeps our contractors, employees, and guests breathing clearer.

Reuse & Recycle

We donated all of our mattresses and the limited amount of furniture being replaced to Habitat for Humanity. We also contacted local charities and organizations who may be in need of carpet, and found homes for it – it’s been scheduled to be picked up during our renovation to be reused elsewhere.

Contractor Transportation

In addition to working with local subcontractors and journeyman, we are bringing in the best contractors from out of state. One of the ways we’re mitigating this is by setting them up in employee housing with group transportation to and from The Nell. This allows us to reduce traffic and emissions to and from Aspen.

Pure Luxury

The Little Nell Front Entrance

We are excited to reveal our newly designed rooms to guests starting June 1, 2017. The rooms will offer updated luxury, with the classic feeling of The Little Nell and Aspen.

We invite you to be one of the first guests in these new rooms. Book today and see how luxury renovation meets sustainability in Aspen.