Kerry Bauer led our talented team of professionals who designed and installed a living wall on the west side of the property facing south, adjacent to the hotel entrance. The living wall is 16 by 16 feet, uses the G-02 system and was grown in for five months prior to installation from cuttings. It is filled with contrasting colored succulents that include coppertone, red carpet and blue senecio.

The contemporary design simulates the waves on the nearby beach, adding a vibrant water feel to the Oceanside property. We hear the project made a good first impression on Oceanside city officials who have toured the site and like the “new” look of a living wall. The blue senecio even mimics the color of the water on the beach. Successful projects always take their surrounding environment into account.

The six-story, 149-room hotel has been designed with the environment in mind, utilizing energy efficient water source pumps and high-performance glazing for the windows. The indoor plumbing fixtures are designed to meet at least a 30% reduction in potable water use. There is a strong focus on using materials and finishes that are non-toxic.

We are so pleased to know that the architects and designers are targeting LEED NC Gold Certification for the property. This isn’t an easy achievement, but over time the savings in water and energy makes a difference financially and environmentally.

It’s nice to have our own “friend who lives on the beach” at Springhill Suites. We wish them the best for their opening this month. We hope you will visit and take a quick look at the living wall. Let us know what you think if you do.

And please, if you stay there, pick up your towels and hang them to dry and re-use another time. Help save the environment even if it is one towel at a time.

For more information about Springhill Suites in Oceanside, please visit www.oceansidespringhillsuites.com

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