NEW YORK—A certification program incorporating guidelines in unique areas such as Classical Feng Shui and environmental pyschology is beginning to gain traction within the hospitality industry. Launched by Certified Eco Designer Debra Duneier, Founder and President of New York-based EcoChi, LLC, the EcoChi 180° seal confirms that 18 guidelines have been met. In addition to the aforementioned Classical Feng Shui and environmental psychology, guidelines cover topics including energy efficiency, non-toxic materials and finishing, ergonomics, representing nature indoors, improved lighting, sound attenuation, creative workspaces, and green practices.
Unlike other certification programs, guidelines can vary by project and are customized for each client. There are always 18 guidelines that have to be met. Until now, the EcoChi 180° seal has been sought only for projects on which Duneier’s company has been involved as a designer. That is beginning to change, however, as other companies are expressing interest in the program.
According to Duneier, fees for certification vary per project. The system can be applied to new construction, renovation or finished spaces. There is currently just one level of certification, unlike other certification programs such as LEED, but one more level may be added. In addition to direct benefits, completed EcoChi 180° Seal properties receive a stone plaque to display on site, a press release of the 18 completed guidelines, and a marketing brochure featuring professional photos and a description of the space. Those properties pursuing certification receive an on-site visit. There is also a questionnaire and documentation to provide. Properties can get recertified after three years.
Examples of Project Designs
Duneier says she had been exploring partnerships with other certification programs before launching her own. On her website there are examples of project designs including a spa relaxation room, guestroom, bar and restaurant, lobby area (414 Hotel in New York), meeting room, and office space. The spa relaxation room incorporated such steps as cultural heritage incorporated into design, electromagnetic field reduction, biodegradable kitchenware, space planning based on sacred geometry, and LEED compliant sustainable furniture. (Duneier is an accredited LEED Green Associate.)
Bringing nature indoors is high on Duneier’s agenda. “We know our brains act a certain way when we see nature,” she says. “Symbols of nature affect our brain in the same way.” An office floor plan in Harlem, N.Y., for example, features a living green wall. A photographic glass art wall in a meeting room has leaf structure as its main visual component.
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Electromagnetic field (EMF) reduction is not something dealt with in other certification programs but Duneier says it is important because EMFs can disrupt sleep. “Hotels want guests to be happy with technology,” she says. “How can you have a phone right next to your bed? The phone should be at least five feet away.” She adds that green plants can help reduce the impact of EMFs; the plants absorb them.
Brief Definition of ‘Classical Feng Shui’
Classical Feng Shui is not something most are familiar with but it is an important part of the EcoChi 180° program. According to EcoChi, LLC, Classical Feng Shui is the art of purposefully arranging an environment so that it has a positive effect on the people who live, work or visit there.
“In this hemisphere, when space is on the south side, it will feel different than on the north side,” she says. “Perhaps on the north side you want a high energy space but the design does not support that. We try to increase the southern feel of the space.”
Duneier adds that environmental psychology studies prove that protecting, rebuilding, and creating a preferred environment increases the sense of well-being and behavioral effectiveness of people.
Go to EcoChi, LLC to learn more.
