The First Carbon-Positive Hotel in the U.S. Is Extremely Trippy Inside
Denver’s new Populus hotel, set to open this summer, is the first carbon-positive hotel in the United States. The hotel aims to sequester more carbon than it emits by using sustainable construction materials and planting over 70,000 Engelmann Spruce trees in Colorado’s Gunnison County. The hotel’s architecture, designed by Studio Gang, mimics the patterns of Colorado’s iconic Aspen trees, featuring a facade with unique window designs that provide shade and boost energy efficiency.
Inside, Populus boasts 265 rooms and various dining options, all designed with natural materials and neutral tones. Reclaimed fencing wood from Wyoming and mushroom-based “leather” tapestries adorn the interiors, reflecting the hotel’s commitment to sustainability. The hotel’s restaurants prioritize waste reduction and source ingredients from regenerative farmers. The rooftop bar, Stellar Jay, offers live-fire cooking, wild game dishes, and breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains.
Guests can also visit the newly planted forest, contributing to the hotel’s long-term carbon offset plan. Populus promises a blend of innovative design, eco-conscious practices, and luxurious amenities, setting a new standard for sustainable travel.
