Construction is officially underway on the new 125-room Hotel Vermont in Burlington, Vermont — a project that aims to achieve LEED certification, signifying its environmentally conscious design and construction practices. The building phase kicked off with a ceremonial groundbreaking event, attended by Vermont Governor Peter Shumlin and Commerce Secretary Lawrence Miller, underscoring the project’s significance to the local economy and the state’s sustainability goals.

The hotel is being developed by local entrepreneurs Jay Canning and Chuck DesLauriers, with construction duties assigned to Burlington-based PC Construction. The team aims to open the hotel by April 2013, creating a new hospitality landmark at 41 Cherry Street. This new Hotel Vermont is named in homage to the original hotel of the same name, which opened a century ago on the corner of Main Street and St. Paul Street.

The architectural and interior design plans place a strong emphasis on blending modern comfort with local character. Architect Israel Smith of Smith Buckley Architects has teamed up with interior designer Kim Deetjen of TruexCullins Interiors to craft an atmosphere that is both welcoming and distinctively Vermont.

The hotel will also become a culinary destination with the inclusion of the renowned Hen of the Wood Restaurant, known for its locally sourced menus and rustic sophistication.

Among its notable features will be a 7,500-square-foot Harbor Terrace, which will serve as Burlington’s first green roof and rooftop garden — a key element in the hotel’s LEED aspirations. The project also includes an outdoor terrace overlooking Lake Champlain, two multi-use function rooms for events and gatherings, and a variety of public and guest amenities designed to enhance the visitor experience while promoting sustainability.

When completed, the Hotel Vermont is expected to not only contribute to Burlington’s hospitality offerings but also serve as a model for eco-conscious urban development in the region.

Originally reported by Pete Hayman in Clad Global.