What was the inspiration behind developing a net-zero hotel?
I’ve built, led and fully funded several businesses, most recently in construction and property, so I’ve seen how environmental frameworks like the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) are reshaping the way we think about buildings. But when we looked at the hotel industry, there was a gap — sustainability just wasn’t being prioritised in anything like the same way.
That’s how this started: what if we could do something different? What if we could lead on this effort without compromising business delivery?
What followed was genuinely a collective, collaborative effort. We brought together the expertise from my various businesses — construction, manufacturing and sustainability management — and combined that with input from many forward-thinking partners and hotel operators. Each company brought something unique to the table, which was key. We weren’t just building a hotel — we were creating a blueprint for how low-impact, high-performance hospitality could work.
How will the hotel inform your other developments?
From the outset, we saw this project as a prototype — an opportunity to learn, refine, and improve. As the first of its kind, it has already made a significant impact on the market, bringing sustainability to the forefront of hotel construction. We’re proving to developers that with intelligent, considered design — much of which we’ve already done — they can build and operate sustainably while also increasing profitability.
How has the financing from Coutts helped with this project?
The collaboration with Coutts has been integral to our ongoing success. From the outset, we built a relationship grounded in honesty and transparency — qualities that led to genuine trust between our team and theirs.
It was our responsibility to demonstrate both the commercial viability and potential risks of our model. Coutts quickly recognised that our approach not only made strong business sense but also aligned directly with their commitment to responsible, net-zero investing.
How we could support you and your business with responsible financing
Criteria apply. Security may be required, including personal guarantees. Product fees may apply. Over 18s only. Subject to status. Business use only. Any property or asset used as security may be repossessed or forfeited if you do not keep up repayments on any debt secured on it.
What are the biggest things you learnt from the project that could benefit the wider industry?
There are so many! There’s no question, however, that embracing new technology, systems and innovations is essential if we’re to meet our sustainability targets — but it’s not plug and play. It takes time, expertise and scrutiny to make sure you’re investing in something that will genuinely deliver long-term value and performance.
Another important point is around collaboration. When the construction, design, and operational teams are aligned from the start, the impact is transformational. When they’re not, it shows.
And finally, it’s about being bold. Ambition is vital, but it has to be anchored to a solid, profitable business model. We’ve been forthright in prioritising this because developers will invest in sustainability if there is a clear route to prosperity. Without the incentive of profit, a sustainable world may be nothing more than a pipe dream.
More broadly, what does sustainability mean to you?
To me, sustainability means making choices today that won’t harm tomorrow. It’s about ensuring our actions — especially in business — don’t come at the cost of the environment or future generations.
Like many, I’ve found myself increasingly focused on the legacy we will leave. We all work hard to create financial security for our families, but that effort is only half the story. We also need to pass on a world that future generations can’t just exist in, but one in which they can thrive too. Unfortunately, as a society, we’re currently failing on this front.
I’m thrilled by the enthusiasm for this project shown by our partners, our peers and our customers. We’ve proven that it’s possible to establish and operate a sustainable hotel that’s profitable and prioritises the customer experience.
Awards for voco Zeal Hotel Exeter Science Park
BREEAM – New Construction Commercial Award 2025
Edie Net Zero Awards – Green Building Project of the Year Award 2025
Michelmores Property Awards – Leisure and Tourism Project of the Year Award 2025
Constructing Excellence South West Awards – Climate Action Award 2025
