The Usual hotels achieves rare double BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ certification in Brussels and Rotterdam

The Usual Hotels has achieved BREEAM In-Use ‘Outstanding’ certification for both of its hotels - The Usual Brussels and The Usual Rotterdam. This puts the sustainable hotel brand among an exclusive group of only seven other hotels worldwide that have achieved this highest possible rating, and also makes it the only hotel brand in the Benelux region with two Outstanding certifications.

BREEAM In-Use is one of the world's leading sustainability assessment methodologies for existing buildings. The methodology assesses performance in the areas of energy, water, materials, ecology, transport, resilience and Health & Wellbeing. The predicate Outstanding reflects exceptional architectural quality and performance that far exceeds common legal requirements.

One step beyond the norm

At both locations, sustainability is deeply embedded in both the building and daily operations. The hotels run entirely on renewable energy and are not connected to the gas grid. Water-saving features and monitoring systems reduce water consumption, while the strong score on Health & wellness the result of high standards in terms of daylighting, indoor climate, user comfort and accessibility. Both properties are also strongly integrated in their urban environment, with excellent accessibility via public transport and facilities for sustainable mobility.

Within the category ‘Resources’ both locations received a exemplary recognition for facilitating reuse and future adaptability. Designed with provisions for reuse and recycling, the buildings remain flexible over time, contributing to long-term lifetime value and reducing material waste.

The Usual Brussels achieved an overall score of 87,1%, with particularly strong results in Resources EN Land Use & Ecology, including biodiversity measures such as green roofs and ecological integrations.

The Usual Rotterdam achieved a Outstanding Asset score from 86,26% and excelled particularly in the categories Transport, Land Use & Ecology EN Health & Wellness. The redevelopment of the property in the centre of Rotterdam shows how existing urban buildings can be transformed into future-proof and resilient hospitality environments.

A framework for future growth

In addition to recognition, BREEAM acts as a long-term framework for The Usual's continued European expansion. While each building has its own characteristics, the certification provides a rigorous structure that guides sustainable refurbishment, operational performance and resilience planning for future sites. Achieving Outstanding for the first two hotels underlines The Usual's level of ambition and confirms BREEAM In-Use as a guiding framework for further development.

“We are proud that both of our first hotels have achieved the Outstanding designation,” said Gisela Boersma, ESG Manager at The Usual. “The certification process has challenged us to critically examine every aspect of our buildings and operations. It confirms that high environmental performance and a strong guest experience can reinforce each other.”

For a detailed overview of the scores per category and the sustainability measures applied, The Usual refers to the technical fact sheet.

Note: The BREEAM-NL In-Use certification for The Usual Rotterdam applies to “The Usual Rotterdam (excluding Pods by The Usual)”, as defined in the official assessment documentation.

A framework for future growth

In addition to recognition, the certifications provide a measurable ESG framework for The Usual's European expansion. As the brand prepares to open additional locations, BREEAM In-Use serves as both a benchmark and a roadmap.

According to The Usual hotels, certifications not only validate their commitment to the highest standards, but also provide invaluable guidance on ESG practices as the hotel concept expands. The issue of climate change is more urgent than ever. Simply acquiring and using a space is no longer considered a responsible option. With uncertainty all around us, it is even more crucial to secure our future as best we can. BREEAM In-Use certification provides a solid, proven framework - a sustainable investment in the future that retains its value as sustainability will only become more important.

Green Key and more 

The Usual has also received Green Key certification and won several international design and sustainability awards, further strengthening its position as a regenerative hospitality brand.