Why LEED v4.1 Certification Matters for Indian Hotels: Lessons from Radisson Blu Bengaluru

Why LEED v4.1 Certification Matters for Indian Hotels: Lessons from Radisson Blu Bengaluru

By Nishang Narayan

Published on November 6, 2024

As sustainability becomes increasingly important, LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification has emerged as the global standard for green building. LEED v4.1, an updated version, introduces more stringent benchmarks for energy efficiency, water management, waste reduction, and overall environmental performance. This certification is more than just a label—it represents a hotel’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and creating a healthier, more resource-efficient space for both guests and staff.

What is LEED v4.1 and Why Does It Matter?

LEED v4.1 certification is awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and focuses on the sustainability of building operations and maintenance, particularly for existing buildings. Key features of LEED v4.1 include:

  1. Energy and Atmosphere: LEED v4.1 prioritizes energy performance, requiring buildings to optimize their energy use through renewable energy sources, energy-efficient lighting, and reduced fossil fuel dependency.

  2. Water Efficiency: Water-saving technologies and practices are crucial, including low-flow fixtures and effective water recycling methods. This criterion aims to protect water resources while lowering utility costs.

  3. Materials and Resources: Hotels must adopt a “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” approach, ensuring that building materials are sustainable, reusable, and sourced responsibly.

  4. Indoor Environmental Quality: To provide a healthy environment, LEED v4.1 emphasizes indoor air quality, natural lighting, and minimal pollutant emissions, creating a comfortable space for guests and employees.

  5. Innovation in Design: Properties are encouraged to incorporate unique, innovative approaches to sustainability that go beyond standard practices, from using biogas to integrating green roofs.

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Why LEED v4.1 Certification is Essential for Hospitality

For hotels, obtaining LEED v4.1 certification is a forward-thinking investment. It boosts a hotel’s appeal among eco-conscious travelers, aligns with global environmental standards, and reduces operational costs over time. In India, where the hospitality sector is rapidly expanding, integrating LEED standards can significantly reduce the industry’s environmental impact, create jobs in green energy sectors, and promote a culture of sustainability across the nation.

Radisson Blu Bengaluru: Setting an Example

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Radisson Blu Bengaluru, Outer Ring Road, stands out as the first hotel in India to achieve the LEED v4.1 Platinum certification for Operations and Maintenance of an Existing Building. Their achievements include:

  • Renewable Energy Integration: They have reduced reliance on fossil fuels by incorporating electric vehicles and renewable energy sources like solar power.
  • Biogas Plant: Their on-site biogas plant processes up to 500 kg of food waste daily, which produces enough gas to prepare meals for 300 staff members.
  • Resource Management: A strong “Reduce-Reuse-Repair & Recycle” program ensures responsible use of materials and waste reduction, contributing to cost savings and environmental health.

Radisson Blu Bengaluru’s commitment to sustainability demonstrates the significant operational benefits and community impact a hotel can achieve by aligning with LEED standards.

Moving Forward: Steps for Hotels to Embrace Sustainability

For other hotels in India, the LEED v4.1 framework provides actionable steps toward sustainability:

  1. Incorporate Renewable Energy: Solar panels, wind turbines, and biogas plants can help hotels reduce reliance on nonrenewable resources.
  2. Implement Efficient Water Management: Hotels can adopt rainwater harvesting and water recycling systems to conserve water.
  3. Adopt Waste Management Systems: From recycling programs to composting, efficient waste management aligns with LEED goals and minimizes landfill waste.
  4. Pursue LEED Certification: Following LEED standards can improve a hotel’s sustainability profile, reduce costs, and increase appeal to eco-conscious travelers.

Congratulating Radisson Blu Bengaluru on Their Achievement

Congratulations to Radisson Blu Bengaluru, Outer Ring Road, for their leadership in sustainable hospitality and for setting a new standard in India. Their journey toward LEED v4.1 Platinum certification exemplifies what’s possible when hotels embrace sustainability, and their efforts pave the way for a greener hospitality industry in India.


Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai Reveals ‘Constellar’ Ballroom with Unique Design Story

Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai Reveals ‘Constellar’ Ballroom with Unique Design Story

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 21, 2026

Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai has unveiled ‘Constellar’, the official name and identity of its expansive 10,000-square-foot ballroom facility. The announcement adds a new layer of meaning to the space, bringing together thoughtful design, symbolism, and a narrative that reflects the hotel’s architectural style and its legacy of refined hospitality.

Introduced earlier this year, the ballroom has already positioned itself as one of Mumbai’s most sophisticated venues for weddings, celebrations, and corporate gatherings. With the introduction of ‘Constellar’, the space now carries a strong visual and conceptual identity, giving it a deeper presence.

The name ‘Constellar’ takes inspiration from constellations, symbolising connection, brilliance, and timeless beauty. This idea is reflected in the logo, which features a four-circle icon drawn from the ballroom’s architectural detailing, especially the circular patterns seen at the grand entrance. These elements come together to form a balanced and elegant motif, linking the interiors with the visual identity. A subtle star formed within the design further connects to the theme of constellations, while the four circles also represent the Four Seasons legacy, making the brand an integral part of the design story.

“Constellar, inspired by constellations, redefines how we envision celebrations coming together with intention, beauty, and meaning. With Constellar, we have given our ballroom a distinct character rooted in contemporary design, advanced technology, culinary craftsmanship, and a passionate team. It is ultimately brought to life by our esteemed guests, who make each celebration unique and memorable,” shares Nitesh Gandhi, General Manager, Four Seasons Hotels Mumbai.

Located in Worli, the 10,000-square-foot facility brings together scale and elegance. It begins with a 500-square-foot private arrival foyer that opens into a 1,300-square-foot pre-function area, leading to a 7,000-square-foot banqueting space. At its centre is a 5,700-square-foot pillarless hall with a 19-foot ceiling, designed to host large gatherings with ease. The interiors follow a modern and contemporary style, while features such as a 1,000-square-foot LED wall, digital signage, and modular setups offer flexibility for different event formats. Seamless connectivity to The Great Room ensures smooth transitions for weddings, soirées, and large-scale launches.

Every event here is shaped by Four Season’s approach to personalised service, supported by dedicated specialists and attention to detail. With ‘Constellar’, the ballroom moves beyond just a venue, offering a space where design, technology, and meaningful experiences come together.


Lemon Tree Signs Garudeshwar Hotel

Lemon Tree Signs Garudeshwar Hotel

By Hariharan U

Published on April 20, 2026

Lemon Tree Hotels Limited has announced the signing of a new property in Garudeshwar, further strengthening its footprint in Gujarat’s growing tourism and pilgrimage-driven markets.

With this addition, the company’s portfolio in the state will expand to 32 properties, including 11 operational and 21 upcoming hotels. The move reflects the brand’s strategy of building scale in high-growth destinations supported by strong travel demand.

The upcoming Lemon Tree Hotel Garudeshwar will feature 90 rooms along with a restaurant, banquet hall, and meeting facilities. Recreational amenities such as a swimming pool, spa, and fitness centre are also part of the development.

The hotel will be managed by Carnation Hotels Private Limited, the management arm of Lemon Tree Hotels.

Gujarat continues to witness rising tourist inflow, driven by landmark attractions like the Statue of Unity and growing interest in spiritual and cultural travel. Garudeshwar is increasingly emerging as a key destination within this ecosystem, benefiting from improved infrastructure and proximity to major tourist circuits.

The property is well connected by road and is located approximately 85 km from Vadodara International Airport and around 5 km from Ekta Nagar Railway Station, offering convenient access for travellers.

Commenting on the signing, Neelendra Singh, Managing Director of Lemon Tree Hotels, said that "Destinations like Garudeshwar are becoming important nodes in India’s expanding tourism landscape". He noted that increasing visitor flows are driving demand for quality branded hospitality, and the company remains focused on tapping such opportunities to strengthen its regional presence.


SAMHI Partners Ingka Centres Noida

SAMHI Partners Ingka Centres Noida

By Hariharan U

Published on April 20, 2026

SAMHI Hotels Limited has signed an agreement with Ingka Centres India Private Limited to develop an upscale hotel in Noida, marking a significant addition to the region’s evolving hospitality landscape.

The project will be developed within Ingka Centres’ upcoming mixed-use development, spread across approximately 2.5 million square feet. Envisioned as a marquee project, it is expected to enhance Noida’s skyline while strengthening its position as a key commercial and hospitality hub in the Delhi NCR region.

The planned hotel will feature around 162 rooms and will be integrated into Ingka Centres’ “Meeting Places” concept—a retail-led ecosystem that combines shopping, leisure, and community-driven experiences. The development also aims to support local businesses and create dynamic workspaces, positioning itself as a modern urban destination.

This collaboration brings together SAMHI’s institutional operating platform and Ingka Centres’ global development expertise. The partnership aligns with SAMHI’s strategy of working with leading institutional organisations while continuing to expand through a capital-efficient model.

Located within a high-quality mixed-use environment, the hotel is expected to benefit from strong captive demand and high visibility. The project will be executed under SAMHI’s long-term variable lease model, allowing for alignment of interests while maintaining a capital-light approach.

Under the agreement, Ingka Centres will lease the building structure, including façade and high-side engineering, while SAMHI will invest in the interior fit-outs. The hotel will be operated under an international brand, which is yet to be announced.

Commenting on the development, Ashish Jakhanwala, Chairman and Managing Director of SAMHI Hotels, said the partnership marks an important step in scaling operations in the National Capital Region. He highlighted the project’s strong demand fundamentals and expressed confidence in delivering a landmark hospitality asset in collaboration with Ingka Centres.

Giovanni Princiotta Cariddi, Country Manager India at Ingka Centres, said the collaboration reflects the company’s vision of building integrated spaces where people can live, work, shop, and stay. He added that the inclusion of a high-quality hospitality offering will enhance the overall experience of the destination.

The project further strengthens SAMHI’s presence in the Delhi NCR region, where it already operates properties such as Hyatt Place Gurgaon, Holiday Inn Express Gurgaon, and Holiday Inn Express Greater Noida.

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