23: Visionary Entrepreneur Barry Sternlicht On What It Takes To Succeed & How His Eco-Luxe 1 Hotels Aim To Protect Our Planet

Eco-Design

Barry Sternlicht's vision for 1 Hotels is rooted in innovative eco-design, emphasizing sustainability and environmental consciousness. He collaborates with talented interior designers and landscape architects to create spaces that not only fit the brand but also promote a greener lifestyle. Sternlicht believes in the importance of incorporating sustainable materials and practices, such as sourcing local products and using recycled materials, to create a luxurious yet environmentally friendly experience 1 2.

I love working with really super talented interior designers. And I think you might know I'm one of the two businessmen in Interior design Hall of Fame, which I think is my greatest accomplishment.

--- Barry Sternlicht

This approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the hotels but also aligns with Sternlicht's commitment to protecting the planet 3.

   

Challenges

Sternlicht acknowledges the challenges in promoting eco-friendly practices within the hotel industry, facing both operational and customer-related obstacles. Despite strong support from environmental organizations, the battle to save the planet is monumental, with resistance from political figures like Donald Trump posing additional hurdles 4. Sternlicht emphasizes the importance of humility and adaptability in addressing these challenges, urging leaders to recognize when they are wrong and to change their policies accordingly.

You have 200 nations that want him to do that, the governments of 200 nations. You have most of the governors saying, we're ignoring you. We're going to continue our policies.

--- Barry Sternlicht

Moreover, he faces internal struggles within his own hotels, as some guests and staff resist changes like eliminating plastics and paper receipts, highlighting the ongoing war to implement sustainable practices 5.

   

Community Impact

Sternlicht's commitment to sustainability extends beyond the hotel walls, aiming to support local communities and create broader environmental impacts. He views 1 Hotels not just as a brand but as a cause, emphasizing the importance of giving back to the communities in which they operate and involving them in the properties 6. This approach is rooted in the belief that doing green is good business and can be profitable, as demonstrated by the success of environmentally sensitive projects like the Visionaire in New York.

I said, it's not a brand, it's a cause. We're teaching people. I said, the world doesn't need another brand. It needs a better one.

--- Barry Sternlicht

Sternlicht also stresses the need for better messaging to educate guests about sustainability, aiming to inspire them to adopt eco-friendly practices in their own lives 7.