This is the first economy hotel in the nation to obtain LEED certification, according to a recent press release by Accor North America.  Located in Northlake near Texas Motor Speedway, the Motel 6 combines European style rooms, modern detailing, and eco-friendly elements while still remaining economic and approachable.  The green hotel opened in October 2009 and features some of the following green elements:

• Thermal solar water heating;
• Reflective cool roof;
• Low-E tinted glass windows;
• Low-energy LED and CFL lighting;
• High-efficiency packed terminal AC;
• Flooring with 80% pre-consumer recycled content;
• Native landscaping with low-water landscaping;
• Low-flow 1.1 gallon pressurized toilets;
• Water-efficient sinks and showers; and
• FSC-certified wood for construction.

The property was designed also to minimize exposure to the hot summer sun from the west.  As a result of all green measures, the hotel is estimated to use about 20% less energy than a comparable hotel. 

Motel 6 Northlake-Speedway was designed by BOKA Powell in Dallas and is located at 13601 Raceway Drive in Northlake.

Credit: Accor North America, Inc.