hi matic hotel paris: an urban ecolodge

image © designboom

designboom published a preview article for the ‘hi-matic hotel’ in paris designed by matali crasset before its official opening. the concept of the ‘urban ecolodge’ is to provide a hotel with heightened sustainability awareness within the heart of the city, a practical and accessible accommodation which mixes urban amenities with a countryside bed and breakfast, driven by strong ecological values.

during paris design week 2011, we returned to the now opened and running hotel to verify for ourselves if the hi-matic is truly living up to its environmental standards. we were pleasantly surprised with how efficiently this hotel combines ecological sustainability together with comfort and warmth at affordable rates.

so why is the hi-matic so ecological?

– the implemented materials are natural and untreated

– energy saving lighting along with water reducing taps are set in place

– no chemicals are used within the lodging facilities, only ecological cleaning products and agents

– staff uniforms are produced by ethically aware brands

– non-toxic paints in bold colors decorate the hotel’s walls

images © designboom

posters and notes throughout the hotel remind guests to be aware, providing suggestions to contribute and do their part towards helping the environment within their private living quarters: – use the lift only if very tired – turn water off while brushing your teeth – re-use towels – be moderate with air-conditioning – don’t leave the television on stand-by mode

outside of their room and within communal spaces, guests are asked to: – use recycle bins in the hall – try eating organic even after your breakfast – use the velib bicycle sharing system for your visit in paris – use green taxis for your transfers – share this message with your friends

lunch-room style dining table image © designboom

a simple breakfast consisting of 100% organic fruits and foods is on offer for hotel lodgers.

dining area image © designboom

breakfast tray image © designboom

entry to hotel room image © designboom

view of sleeping quarters from the entry door image © designboom

storage shelves border the bed image © designboom

sleeping quarters image © designboom

clothes rack image © designboom

(left) bathroom (right) passage to bathroom images © designboom

suggested yoga poses for exercise within the hotel room image © designboom