In December 2021, a fully net zero hotel opened its doors in west London. Almost one year later, room2 Chiswick has established itself as a green haven for eco-minded visitors.
The hotel lays claim to an impressive list of environmental innovations, from showers which use 40% less water to roofs which boast environmental benefits, including one covered in wildflowers to encourage biodiversity and another which captures rainwater and reduces local flooding. It’s no wonder, then, that room2 has speedily built its reputation within the London hotel scene and that groups such as Hilton have reached out to its creators for eco-inspiration.
In 2015, I took part in an environmental volunteering programme in Nicaragua, so was excited to hear about room2’s carbon offsetting partner based in the Central American country. The hotel employs locals to grow bamboo trees on Nicaraguan farmland which absorb carbon from the atmosphere. The effect of this is that all carbon emissions produced by room2 Chiswick are offset.
Subscribe to The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Back at the hotel, there are two lab rooms used to monitor energy and water consumption, plus rooms have user-enabled lighting and heating systems to prevent them from staying on when they’re not in use. As a result, room2 Chiswick is estimated to be 89% more efficient than the average UK hotel.
Staying at room2 Chiswick is a bit like being granted access to the home of a Londoner
(Image credit: room2 Chiswick)
The property
Staying at room2 Chiswick is a bit like being granted access to the home of a Londoner. It’s described as a ho(me)tel, rather than a hotel, reflecting the relaxed atmosphere, with guests milling around and friendly staff on hand to answer any questions.
The entrance is surrounded by an abundance of leafy foliage locally sourced from the New Covent Garden Market in Nine Elms. Inside, the hotel’s bespoke furniture is made by local designers located no more than ten miles away, and every piece has its own eco story (even the corridors leading to the rooms are lined with carpets made out of recycled fishing nets).
Practicality is a central component of room2’s 86 bedrooms. I stayed in a lounge room, which featured a nifty kitchenette complete with a hob, microwave and even food waste bin, and a fridge containing Fairtrade chocolate and a few bottles of apple cider. In some larger rooms you can get a dishwasher and oven, making the spot ideal for longer stays. Returning guests are able to leave belongings on request and pets are welcome, contributing to the hotel’s home-like feel.
In contrast to the hustle and bustle of Chiswick, the room was pleasantly silent even when the hotel was at full capacity on a Saturday in August. Spacious, flooded with natural light, with comfortable beds and super-soft towels, I found it the perfect spot to unwind.
The hotel cafe is an ideal spot for remote working
(Image credit: room2 Chiswick)
Eating and drinking
As well as having its own cafe (an ideal spot for remote working) and restaurant, room2 makes preparing food effortless with its offering of sustainably packaged meals supplied by the premium frozen food giant COOK.
Breakfast at room2 is nutritious and on the healthy side, with options including granola, dried fruit and croissants. If you’re after something slightly more substantial, a stone’s throw away is trendy brunch spot N.197 Chiswick Fire Station. Housed in an old fire station, this restaurant is light and airy and, like room2, prides itself on its sustainablility credentials.
For those looking to work off their high-end ready meals and full English breakfasts, there’s also a gym complete with Peloton bikes, rowing machines and weights.
room2 has a gym with Peloton bikes, rowing machines and weights
(Image credit: room2 Chiswick)
Things to do
The hotel’s surrounding area, Chiswick, is a great place for eating and shopping, from Grove Park Deli – a perfect spot for picking up some artisan delights – to Philip Neal Chocolates, a boutique chocolate store.
The sights of west London can be explored via a wander down the Thames. The capital doesn’t get more picturesque than the Hammersmith riverfront, where you’ll find The William Morris Society, a small museum where Morris lived and created some of his most iconic prints and textiles.
There are also some magnificent pubs along this stretch, including The Dove and The Black Lion. Both are characterful and quaint, with beautiful outdoor areas right next to the river. For those looking for something a little off the beaten track and away from the crowds, there’s also The Duke of Sussex on Turnham Green, which features a beautiful and ornate chandelier room leading onto a pretty beer garden. For a fancier option (and a boogie before bed), there’s also The George IV which runs live music nights.
Brass band entertainment at the flower market just minutes away from room2
(Image credit: room2 Chiswick)
The vibrant Chiswick Flower Market is a must-visit if you happen to stay at room2 on a Sunday. A lively brass band was blasting out tunes and entertaining market-goers with choreographed dance moves during my stay. I was drawn to the array of plant stalls which included a swap-a-plant-pot station and some extremely realistic flower pot cupcakes.
Verdict
Anyone eager to save the planet will love the hive of eco-activity that surrounds room2. A passion for the planet is embodied within its walls, and the experience of staying here can’t help but put a smile on your face.
Damian Barr shares his favourite books
The Great Mughals: a 'treasure trove' of an exhibition
Big Tech critic Brendan Carr is Trump's FCC pick
The Biltmore Mayfair review: a quintessential slice of luxury London
Langdale Chase Hotel: a cosy nook in the Lake District
Ramdane Touhami's Hotel Drei Berge
Timeless hotels for old-school elegance
Hoteliers who host
The Count of Monte Cristo review: 'indecently spectacular' adaptation
Death of England: Closing Time review – 'bold, brash reflection on racism'
Engel Ayurpura: a boutique Ayurveda retreat in the Dolomites
