Celebrating Sustainability and Design Excellence: Gemma Cullen & Kelly Garoutte's NEWH Green Voice Victory
Hotel Basalt is an adaptive reuse project that transforms Charlotte’s historic Optimist Hall into a luxurious Icelandic-inspired boutique hotel. Drawing on Iceland’s natural contrasts—fire and ice—Gemma and Kelly harmonized sustainability with opulent design. The project integrates eco-conscious features, including:
- Solar-efficient panels and a green roof to optimize energy performance.
- Use of low-emitting materials, recycled elements, and water-efficient systems.
- Architectural innovations, like a central building cut, enhancing natural light and airflow.
Their design doesn’t merely preserve a historic structure; it reshapes it into a modern hospitality icon aligned with LEED Silver standards.
The Heart of Sustainability
Reflecting their client’s commitment to environmental stewardship, Hotel Basalt reimagines Icelandic culture for the American South. The team’s sustainable strategies extend from electric vehicle charging stations to responsibly crafted furnishings, ensuring that every element of the guest experience embraces sustainability without compromising style.
Paving the Way for the Future
Gemma and Kelly’s achievement is a testament to the transformative power of thoughtful design. At Form and Function Co., we celebrate their success and look forward to seeing how their innovations inspire future generations of designers.
Discover More
Explore the journey of Hotel Basalt and its groundbreaking approach to eco-luxury by downloading the full project details here.