A new style of "no-frills-chic" hotels will gradually arrive in cities across Canada, the first expected to open this year.
These days, the word chic isn't mentioned without implying eco-friendly. The so-called ALT hotels, designed by Quebec architect Viateur Michaud and developed by Groupe Germain, will be on the cutting edge of energy conservation measures.
The hotels will use a heating and cooling system generated by the earth's temperature, as well as geothermally heated tiles on the ground floor and energy-efficient light throughout.
Meant to offer comfortable, sleek rooms at bargain prices ($129 per night) and at the same time address environmental concerns with geothermal technology, the hotel developers are hoping to fill a void in the Canadian market.
"The type of hotel we are introducing today reflects a strong trend in hotel accommodation, especially in Europe and Asia," Christiane Germain, CEO of Groupe Germain, said in a statement. "It's been dubbed 'no-frills-chic' and combines design, atmosphere and chic interiors with the best possible price."
Other green-forward features are rooms equipped with one switch to monitor all lighting and a 100-per-cent smoke-free environment.