A pair of new hotel developments is set to bring green buildingprinciples to the New York City hospitality scene for the firsttime. Developers Jack Ancona and Flatiron Real Estate Advisors LLCrecently broke ground on what will reportedly be the city's firstgreen boutique hotel when it opens in spring 2008. The 19-storyGreenhouse 26, at 132 W. 26th St. in Chelsea, will be the firstlodging facility in New York City to utilize a geothermal heatingand cooling system.

Two years after Greenhouse 26 opens, Starwood Capital Group willgive New York tourists and business travelers their first greenluxury option. The CT-based investment firm will introduce its "1"line of branded hotels and residences to the city at 14-20 W. 40thSt. in Midtown in 2010. The 1 Hotel and Residences at Bryant Parkwill form part of a 31-story mixed-use development also includingcondominium residences. The project, designed by architect MorrisAdjmi, is being constructed by 40th Street Development LLC, anaffiliate of Ascent Real Estate Advisors LLC, on what is currentlya parking lot near the New York Public Library.

Starwood plans to make the hotel at least 30% more energyefficient than required by state law by using day lighting,occupancy sensors, lighting control systems and Energy Starappliances. High-recycled content and locally made materials willbe used in the construction process and 50% of the energy used tooperate the building will be sourced by wind, hydro and biomasspower.