The Agrarian Hotel announced this week that it has been awarded LEED Silver, the first New Construction project in the City of Arroyo Grande to earn LEED certification. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), is the most widely used green building rating system in the world and an international symbol of excellence. Through design, construction and operations practices that improve environmental and human health, LEED-certified buildings are helping to make the world more sustainable. 

“From the project’s conception, our team was committed to providing an excellent guest experience with a beautiful, sustainable building in the heart of the Village,” said owner Mike Panchal. “LEED certification is a great recognition of that commitment.”   

The Agrarian Hotel achieved LEED certification for implementing practical and measurable strategies and solutions in areas including sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality. Green buildings allow businesses to operate more sustainably and give the people inside them a healthier, more comfortable space to work and play. 

More than 25% of The Agrarian Hotel’s energy is offset by a large solar array on the roof. Renewable energy combined with efficient lighting and equipment results in 30% energy savings compared to a typical building. Water savings are 40% for indoor use, and outdoor water use is reduced by almost 70% through native and adapted plant selections. 80% of construction waste was diverted from landfills.

“One of the most important green building features is the site selection itself,” says Andy Pease of In Balance Green Consulting. “With a central location downtown, guests and staff can easily walk to restaurants, shopping and services without needing a car. In addition, the creek restoration and walkway add a great pedestrian connection.” 

Certification is proof that buildings are going above and beyond to ensure the space is constructed and operated to the highest level of sustainability. More than 51,200 commercial and institutional projects are currently participating in LEED in all 50 states and more than 181 countries and territories. 

“LEED is a transformative tool that ensures a building is designed and operated to achieve high performance, improve human health and protect the environment,” said Mahesh Ramanujam, president and CEO, USGBC. “By prioritizing sustainability, The Agrarian Hotel is leading the way in their industry and helping USGBC continue towards our goal of green buildings for everyone within this generation.”