Opening in December, CityCenter was created with a vision to introduce a new level of environmental consciousness to the world-famous Strip and has emerged as a leader in sustainable urban development. Crystals' achievement marks the fourth LEED Gold certification for CityCenter; previous recipients are ARIA Resort's hotel tower, ARIA's convention center and theater, and Vdara Hotel & Spa. CityCenter is poised to achieve a combination of LEED Gold and Silver ratings throughout its remaining hotels, residences, dining and public spaces.
The LEED Core and Shell recognition means that all aspects of the design, excepting the tenants individual interiors, were evaluated in the decision process. Significantly aiding the achievement was Studio Daniel Libeskind's dramatic multi-faceted exterior. Pertaining to the name, the glass canopy 'depicts the detailed beauty of a quartz crystal', and importantly allows an abundance of natural light to penetrate the shopping district. In addition, water savings of an estimated 1.8 million gallons through efficient water fixtures, a preferred parking scheme for alternatively fuelled vehicles is in place, Forest Stewardship Council certified woods are used and radiant floor cooling allowing only the occupied proportions of the building to be cooled.
Richard Fedrizzi, President, CEO and Founding Chair, USGBC, said, "From its intense focus on water conservation to the multiple strategies for energy efficiency, the CityCenter team has delivered several exceptional properties that qualify for the LEED Gold rating. Extreme climates challenge the most creative of project teams, and the CityCenter team has risen to the occasion and then some. We congratulate them on their significant achievement."
Crystals' interior was designed by David Rockwell and Rockwell Group, creating a 21st century park that will celebrate nature and the seasons, and feature "changeable artwork" such as abstract hanging gardens, a lush flower carpet and more.