Just Opened: Hotel Palomar

POSTED: Thursday, October 15, 2009, 9:29 PM

Filed Under: Just Opened | Visual Art Architecture

Courtesy of Hotel Palomar

What's likely the greenest hotel in Philadelphia opened its doors today, showcasing its new digs in the American Institute of Architects building. In shambles, the 80-year-old building was gutted to make room for the lavishly frivolous, but environmentally frugal Hotel Palomar (117 S. 17th St., 215-563-5006). As the only hotel in Philadelphia registered with the US Green Business Council, the entire edifice is decked with sustainable materials. The floor of the chic lobby is laid with recycled glass and 100 percent wool rugs; the organic-friendly restaurant, Square 1682, is covered by soundproof cork ceilings; and the 230 guest rooms are furnished with certified wood beds, tables and chairs. Also, guests will find snack bars stocked with organic and fair trade coffees, teas and treats in the rooms.

But enough about the technical stuff ' let's get back to the art. Hoping to maintain the Art Deco aura of the previous building, designers have worked to establish an 'Art in Motion' theme. The lobby, hallways and rooms are lined with a variety of original works, many of which were made by local artists. One of the featured pieces is a Warhol-esque image of Ben Franklin that greets you before entering the lobby.

If you're looking to spend a romantic weekend here with your honey, you better be ready to shell out some green of your own. Prices for the rooms range from $199 to $400. The hotel, however, is offering guided tours for those interested in just taking a peek.

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