Going Green Behind the White Wall: Normandy Farm’s Sustainability Operations

Nestled behind our iconic white walls, Normandy Farm is more than a historic landmark, it’s a living example of how sustainability can be thoughtfully integrated into daily operations. Across the property, a quiet yet powerful transformation is underway. From the kitchen and housekeeping to landscaping, IT, and energy systems, our team is implementing environmentally responsible practices that reduce waste, conserve resources, and help protect the planet. 

At Normandy Farm, sustainability isn’t a passing trend, it’s a shared responsibility and a growing tradition. 

Read on to discover how our team is working behind the scenes to keep sustainability at the forefront of everything we do. 

Sustainability Starts in the Kitchen 

At Normandy Farm, Chef Abu leads with a deep respect for both the ingredients he uses and the guests he serves. His kitchen philosophy is rooted in sustainability and responsibility: “I don’t allow waste in my kitchen,” he says. “That’s how I was raised.” Anything that can’t be used in-house is often taken home for Chef’s personal compost pile, demonstrating a level of dedication that goes far beyond the kitchen. 

Chef Abu maximizes every ingredient. Locally sourced meats from Lancaster farms are used in their entirety—whether sliced, ground, or rendered for searing. Fish, chicken, and meat bones and skins are transformed into rich stocks for sauces and soups. Even herb stems find their way into broths and pestos, while roasted seeds and vegetable leaves are repurposed as garnishes or flavor enhancements. 

Our combi-ovens reduce cooking times and conserve electricity without compromising the integrity of the cuisine—another win for both the environment and the guest experience. 

In response to evolving dietary needs and health trends, the culinary team has also re-evaluated ingredient choices and cooking methods. This includes switching from seed oils to healthier alternatives like blended oils, olive oil, and butter. Chef Abu also prioritizes buying local whenever possible, ensuring better traceability and supporting nearby producers. 

By aligning menus with the seasonality of produce and seafood, guests enjoy dishes that are not only fresher and more flavorful—but also more sustainable. It’s a holistic approach that blends environmental consciousness with culinary excellence. 

Let There Be Light (and Savings) 

Pat O’Donnell, our Director of Maintenance & Construction and long-time team member, has been instrumental in elevating energy efficiency across Normandy Farm. 

With more than 15,000 bulbs throughout the property, switching 90% to energy-efficient LEDs has significantly reduced electricity use—cutting consumption by nearly two-thirds. These LEDs also produce less heat, reducing air conditioning demand, and require far less maintenance thanks to a five-year warranty. 

Behind the scenes, variable frequency drives (VFDs) on motors and equipment allow systems to slow down when full power isn’t necessary. This conserves energy and extends the life of critical systems such as HVAC. 

In high-traffic, temperature-sensitive areas like loading docks and walk-in refrigerators, air curtains automatically activate when doors are opened, using compressed air to prevent unnecessary heating or cooling loss. 

Thanks to these upgrades and Pat’s forward-thinking solutions, energy efficiency is no longer just a goal—it’s part of our everyday operations. 

Glorious Groundskeeping 

Just steps from The Farm, our sister property, Blue Bell Country Club, is raising the bar for eco-conscious land management. Superintendent Dan Zaroff and his dedicated team lead the way in sustainability, with thoughtful practices that are reflected across the course and throughout the shared grounds of both properties. Guests can’t help but notice the pristine grounds upon arrival, meticulously maintained from sunrise to sunset. 

Electric mowers reduce both emissions and noise pollution, while organic fertilizers improve turf health and protect nearby ecosystems. Naturalized areas with native grasses and wildflowers minimize mowing and provide essential habitats for pollinators and other wildlife. Strategically placed ponds and vegetative buffers help filter runoff and maintain water quality. 

Every aspect of golf course management is guided by Best Management Practices (BMPs), from irrigation and pest control to turf selection. These practices reflect a shared mission across our properties: to deliver an exceptional guest experience while caring for the land we steward. 

To learn more about the golf course’s specific initiatives, check out the blog post titled Turf Talk: Sustainability on the Course.

Housekeeping 

Our housekeeping team ensures each guest room is thoroughly cleaned and beautifully presented for your stay. With a high volume of guests, we prioritize changing linens between every visit to maintain the highest standards of cleanliness and comfort. 

To support our sustainability goals, guest rooms are serviced every other day during multi-night stays. This reduces laundry volume, conserving water and energy. Of course, guest comfort always comes first—if additional towels or services are needed, a quick call to the front desk is all it takes. 

Smart Tech, Smarter Energy Use 

Technology plays a key role in improving efficiency across our property. Director of IT Stephen Ferraguti and IT Manager Raymond Hibbs work together to ensure that Normandy Farm’s critical systems operate efficiently, sustainably, and seamlessly. 

Before introducing new technology, the team responsibly recycles outdated equipment to minimize electronic waste. Calendar-based HVAC systems automatically adjust heating and cooling in conference rooms and guest rooms based on occupancy, eliminating energy waste in unused spaces. 

They’re also implementing group policies that automatically shut down computers outside of business hours and transitioning operations to digital storage to reduce paper use. 

Surge protectors and battery backups safeguard electronics and extend their lifespan; another small but impactful way of reducing resource consumption. With Stephen and Raymond at the helm, Normandy Farm continues to evolve with sustainability in mind. 

 Recycling 

While you won’t see individual recycling bins throughout the property, rest assured that recycling is a key part of our sustainability strategy. We partner with BP Environmental, a provider that uses advanced sorting technology to separate recyclables from general waste after collection. 

This behind-the-scenes system allows us to recycle efficiently and effectively without compromising guest experience or cleanliness. 

Experience It for Yourself 

We’re proud of the sustainable practices woven into the fabric of Normandy Farm Hotel and Conference Center and our sister property, Blue Bell Country Club. Every step we take, no matter how small, brings us closer to a more responsible, eco-friendly future. 

Come witness our commitment to sustainability in action. Contact our team by submitting a form located at the bottom of our website to learn more or schedule your visit today. 

Located in close proximity to Philadelphia and situated in the heart of Blue Bell, Pa., Normandy Farm Hotel and Conference Center is more than a meticulously restored American landmark—it's a fully wired, high-tech hospitality venue. Relax on the terrace, sip a cocktail in America's oldest silo, play a challenging game of golf on our Arnold Palmer Signature Designed course, plan an event with us or dine on our delectable farm-to-table cuisine. It all adds up to One Historic Experience.