The First LEED Certified Existing Hotel in Greater China Area

The Riviera Hotel
646 Linsen N. Road
Taipei 104, Taiwan R.O.C.

LEED Consultant: Steven Leach Sustainable Design Division

As a boutique hotel with the mission of protecting our natural environment, the Riviera Hotel, a serene oasis in the heart of bustling Taipei City, has combined green operations and maintenance practices with her hotel services. This environment friendly destination has become Taiwan's first LEED certified hotel.

The building was originally designed by the world-renowned French architect, Mr. Gerard Jardonnet, and construction was completed in 1991. In 2008, the Riviera Hotel began a series of on-going improvements to streamline the building's efficiency, and minimize environmental impact. By implementing strategies based on the USGBC's LEED rating system, the Riviera Hotel has successfully reduced electricity and water usage, and adopted sustainable purchasing and waste management policies.

Highlights of the LEED project's most significant accomplishments include improved energy performance, a vegetated green roof, and a dedicated team of hotel staffs committed to sustainability.

The replacement of the hotel's chiller early in the LEED planning phase was a substantial investment for a small boutique hotel, but ultimately resulted in significantly improved energy performance and cost savings. A variety of lighting controls in every guest space offer cozy lighting levels while also taking advantage of daylight and minimizing electrical use. Each room provides a comfortable and flexible interior environment.

The installation of a green roof atop the hotel provides a peaceful area of solitude for guests in the midst of the busy city. The vegetated roof garden uses recycled rain water for irrigation, cleans the city air, and creates a natural ecosystem. The roof serves as more than a retreat for guests, by also insulating the building and saves energy by reducing heating/cooling needs.

The success of the Riviera Hotel LEED project lies in the strong management and consulting teams and their determination to create a more environmentally friendly hotel retreat. The Riviera Hotel, under the direct guidance of SL+A International Asia has worked diligently to complete multiple environmental improvement projects. These positive efforts result in a uniquely green and most enjoyable escape for any Taipei traveler in the heart of Taipei.