The Hotel at Oberlin, powered by solar arrays and geothermal wells, lives up to the progressive politics of the college where it stands At the intersection of College and Main streets, near the campus of Ohio?s famously progressive Oberlin University, a hotel has stood for decades, welcoming visitors to the school and the city. But earlier this summer, as befitting the school?s guiding philosophy, the older building was replaced by a new symbol of the area?s growing commitment to sustainability.
The newly opened Hotel at Oberlin would make any environmental studies major proud. The only LEED Platinum certified hotel owned by a U.S. college, the 70-room building is entirely powered by an on-site solar array and uses geothermal power for heating and cooling, aided by a radiant temperature control system with metal ceiling panels that dramatically increases efficiency. It even boasts locally sourced material, including wood panels from a nearby 19th century barn, that wind around a central staircase.  But ask the architect, and the rationale, in part, comes down to dollars and sense. 
"In terms of operation, you need to look at this on the on the short and long terms," says Jim Curtain, of Chicago-based SCB. "What?s the highest value for the expense""

Hotel at Oberlin
The 1833 Restaurant inside the Hotel at Oberlin

Developed by SMART Hotels and run by the Olympia Companies, the hotel exudes sustai...