These days, when we hear words like conservation, sustainability and preservation, we think of pure environmentalism. In Las Vegas, a city renowned for imploding and landfilling the old to make way for the new, its efforts to preserve its history are yielding green results.
Near the end of 2010, the Plaza Hotel began an extensive renovation project, spanning its casino and guestrooms, as well as its dining and entertainment venues. In addition to implementing greener elements, the project’s general contractor and designer, Nancy Paolino, saw an opportunity to conserve money and environmental impact by purchasing and repurposing items from Carl Icahn’s defunct Fountain Bleu project on the Strip.
“I was reading the paper one day and saw a small notice about an auction for the Fountain Bleu,” said Paolino. “I was so intrigued. I called them immediately and asked if they would be willing to make a major sale in the next 24 hours.”
Items purchased by Paolino for the Plaza remodel included furniture, light fixtures, carpet, marble, granite, porcelain and mosaics. With these resources, she created a completely new look for the historic downtown landmark, conveying modern elegance while paying homage to the glitz of the Rat Pack era.
The property reopened on September 1, 2011. Thanks to the Fountain Bleu’s castoffs, the Plaza now boasts “Crème Marfil marble, inlaid mosaic tile, sparkling chandeliers and a plush front desk” and room furnishings “all done in modern, contemporary earth tones with bright accents, rich marble bathrooms and sprawling views of the Strip and downtown Las Vegas.” (Plaza Hotel and Casino Press Kit)
Green elements include over 48,000 energy-efficient light bulbs that light the Plaza’s famous dome crowning the end of Main Street. The conversion saves approximately 85 percent of the energy used by the old bulbs. The entire property is now undergoing a conversion to energy-efficient lighting.
Additionally, the Plaza has installed energy-efficient air systems, is working with the NV Energy Sure Bet program to instigate other energy saving strategies, and has incorporated a water conservation program.
Nearest and dearest to my heart is the effort to preserve the property’s history, while giving it a facelift. The hotel’s famed façade remains much the same as it was when it was originally constructed in 1971.
To pay tribute to the hotel/casino’s iconic past, Paolino explained, “I found a beautiful old black and white shot of the building and we had it made into an ink on canvas accent piece, which hangs in every guest room.”
Many do not realize that the hotel’s original name, the Union Plaza, came from the site’s previous occupant, the Union Pacific railroad. The first train depot in Las Vegas was built on the site in 1905 and then purchased by the Union Pacific in 1921. The depot wasn’t demolished until 1970, when plans were being made to erect the current structure. When the Union Plaza opened, it became an Amtrack rail stop. It was the only train station in America located in a casino. Another Las Vegas original.
One of the initial owners, Sam Boyd, made the property the center of local controversy when he ignored a city ordinance banning the practice of hired female dealers. This bold move forever changed the face of Las Vegas game play.
Among the property’s new venues is Oscar’s Beef, Booze and Broads, owned and operated by none other than our beloved and infamous former mayor, Oscar Goodman. Oscar is also a renowned conservator of the city’s history. He has made his restaurant a living and experiential Las Vegas archive by displaying his personal artifacts and memorabilia. His “Broads” are attractive women charged with acting as charming dinner companions for his guests. They are well-versed in topics like politics, Las Vegas history, and suggestions for things to do in and around the city.
In large part, we have Oscar to thank for impressing upon our city the value of its history and unique resources. Such efforts keep the green growing and flowing in Las Vegas.
Green Tip for March
Visit www.nativeenergy.com to measure the carbon footprint of your event or travel options.
