Marriott International has partnered with Fitwel, a healthy building certification system that aims to optimise occupant health. 

Marriott has become Fitwel’s first Enterprise Partner and the new healthy building solutions will be implemented across the operator’s global portfolio of branded residences. 

The pilot location for the global partnership is The Ritz-Carlton Residences Chicago, Magnificent Mile, US, which received a two-star Fitwel Certification in March. Learn more about Fitwel here. 

The Ritz-Carlton property, which is sold out, has a fruit and vegetable roof garden for residents, plus a fitness centre with saunas and steamrooms.

Marriott expects to achieve Fitwel Certification at several branded residential properties by the end of the year.

John Hearns, senior vice president, global residential operations, said: ““As owner expectations continue to evolve, Marriott is focused on shaping residential experiences that encompass thoughtful design, signature amenities, and a strong emphasis on wellness.”

Joanna Frank, president and CEO of the Centre for Active Design and Active Design Advisors, Inc. (Adai), said: “Marriott’s leadership reflects a broader shift across global real estate and hospitality, where health is increasingly viewed not as an amenity, but as a core business strategy tied to long-term value, resilience and customer experience. 

“As Fitwel’s first Enterprise Partnership and the first branded residences and hospitality company achieving Fitwel’s Champion+ designation, Marriott is helping set a new global benchmark for how health can be scaled across portfolios in ways that benefit owners, residents, guests, associates, and long-term asset performance.”

Marriott’s global branded residential portfolio includes 153 properties in operation and 183 in the pipeline.

Other Marriott properties that have also achieved Fitwel Certification include the company’s global headquarters building in Bethesda, Maryland, US, which opened in 2022 with a three-star Fitwel Certification.

Other healthy building standards include the WELL Building standard.