Boston-based Cubellis has announced the completion of the 12-story Hotel Felix, the former Hotel Wacker. Located in Chicago, the Hotel Felix is the city's first hotel designed to achieve LEED Silver certification. Gettys Chicago was responsible for interior design, procurement and program management services.

"This was an exciting design project because the facility was not only refurbished to accommodate the discerning eco-friendly traveler, but subsequently provides all new sustainable services for the hotel staff as well," says David R. LaPlaca, AIA, associate, architecture at Cubellis. "It was amazing to see how when we started removing the old windows and miscellaneous masonry infill to recreate the original terra cotta frames openings, how light flooded the ground floor lobby and restaurant, creating a new dynamic environment for everyone. Even the basement, designed to contain the hotel offices, a new data center and laundry facilities for the hotel was transformed  with the addition of an employee lounge equipped with locker rooms and showers."

Bike storage is provided for employees who ride to work, as well as a recycling room. In-room motion sensors control the thermostat, allowing the heating and cooling to automatically adjust based upon the guest's use of the room. Organic and recycled materials were used throughout, such as energy efficient plumbing, low-emitting paints, carpets and a green cleaing program.

"Working closely with Cubellis, the project engineers and the owner, we were able to identify the cost and benefit to the hotel of every LEED point and allow the owner to make highly informed decisions," says Michael Maurer, AIA, principal with Gettys. "In the end, we created an upscale design that is warm, clean and contemporary, where guests can feel environmentally responsible and not sacrifice any luxury in doing so."

The Hotel Felix features a lobby bar overlooking a quiet neighborhood, an Asha wellness spa, three small conference rooms and a restaurant that will open summer 2009.