The 1,002-key JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa, designed by HKS Hill Glazier Studio and ForrestPerkins, has attained LEED certification. “Our goal was to design a building that sustainably complements the area’s natural and architectural beauty,” says HKS project designer Clifford Horsak. “We met the challenge by using the topography of the site to our advantage and incorporating regionally sourced materials such as stone, concrete, and limestone. Highly reflective roofing materials are used to mitigate the urban heat island effect.”
Additional green initiatives include:
- More than 70 percent of the power needs of the resort are powered by Windtricity, a clean and green power source.
- Texas native plants and recycled cooling tower blow down water to reduce the need for irrigation by 50 percent.
- Sensors in the heating and cooling systems recognize when doors to the balcony are open, automatically shutting down to conserve energy.
- Low-VOC paints, coatings, adhesives, and sealants are used to prevent harmful odors and contamination.
- Low-flow showerheads and toilets save significant potable water.
- Energy Star-labeled CFLs use approximately 75 percent less energy.
- The 100 acres north of the resort’s golf course is a bird sanctuary for the endangered Golden Cheek Warbler.
- 98 bicycle spaces are located throughout the resort. In addition, preferred parking is provided for low-emitting and fuel-efficient vehicles.
