January 2008

Sustainable Meetings

Environmentally Friendly Practices in a Sleek Setting

by Loretta Bently

The Ellis Hotel on Peachtree Street
 

Combining the urban sophistication of a contemporary boutique property with the functionality of a conventional hotel, The Ellis Hotel - an Atlanta historic landmark managed by Boykin Management Company and situated on the city's "main street" - opened in October after a $28 million restoration. The 127-room hotel reflects a strong commitment to environmental responsibility.

One example is the new state-of-the-art laundry equipment installed at the hotel. This equipment filters water during the washing process, ensuring that no chemicals are released into Atlanta's water system. All detergents and other cleaning products, even those used in the property's dishwashers, are environmentally friendly and free of chemicals. Additionally, all linens are of a very high thread count, reducing the volume of energy and detergent required to launder them. All fixtures, such as lighting, meet current "green" criteria as well. Management also went the extra mile to properly dispose of all materials removed during the gutting and restoration of the hotel.

Located in the heart of Atlanta, the Ellis Hotel exudes Southern hospitality in a cosmopolitan environment. In the lobby, guests are greeted by the scent of "Sea Island Cotton;" the sound of homegrown Southern artists like The Allman Brothers Band, Mindy Smith, and Otis Redding; and the taste of a Georgia peach-infused refreshment at check-in.

Each of the guest rooms and suites features an espresso bamboo accent wall, 32" LCD TV, natural lighting, ostrich leather headboards, and mini bar delicacies. After washing the day away with Ermenegildo Zegna bath products, discerning snoozers can take advantage of the "Choose Your Snooze" pillow menu, with a selection of feather, foam, hypoallergenic, or Tempurpedic.

Recognizing the rise of women business travelers, The Ellis Hotel offers a female-only floor with keyed entry to ensure a feeling of security, as well amenities that include hair-straightening irons and Spanx "slimcognito" hosiery. For men, The Ellis Hotel makes neckties available at the front desk, as well as Polo Ralph Lauren Blue cologne.

Business travelers will appreciate high-speed wireless Internet, a business center, two meeting rooms, voice mail, business support services ... and the property's accessibility from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, with a short MARTA ride into downtown. Nearby attractions include the CNN Center global headquarters; the Georgia Aquarium; a bustling neighborhood of eclectic shops, restaurants and nightclubs; and Centennial Olympic Park.

The Ellis Hotel At A Glance
Conference Space: The Ellis Hotel features two stylish meeting rooms measuring 650 square feet (Carnegie Room) and 550 square feet (Stoddard Room).
Number of Rooms and Suites: 127
On-Site Amenities and Services: e Street Grille overlooking Peachtree Street, business center, business support, secured women's floor, fitness center
For More Information: Christopher Parsons, director of sales, 176 Peachtree Street NW, Atlanta, GA 30303; Phone: (404) 523-5155; E-mail: cparsons@ellishotel.com;
Web site: www.ellishotel.com

IN THE HEART OF ATLANTA: From top, elements from the lobby, bathroom, and lighting all combine to exude an urban sophistication.