Site Conservation: A corner of a previously disturbed site was selected close to a road to reduce the extent of road and parking surface construction.

Building Form and Orientation: While the building plan was formed to fit into the existing context and to give views of the river valley to all units, its width was chosen to maximize daylight in each unit. The glazed balconies will be used as thermal chimneys to reduce cooling loads and as heat traps in cooler weather to naturally condition outdoor living spaces.

Energy Conservation: Mechanical heating, lighting and cooling loads are reduced through the use of day-lighting, higher performance glazing and a good thermal envelope and air barrier. Efficient direct/indirect electric lighting with sensors and an integrated energy management and control system optimize the requirement for energy use appropriate to the level of resident activity. These basic strategies will result in a better than 25% reduction of annual energy use.

Water Conservation : Low flow fixtures are used.

Materials: Easily repaired, durable, long-life exterior materials, such as EIFS cladding and MBM roofing, and interior materials, such as gypsum board, cellulose ceiling tile, linoleum and cork flooring, are used. Products emitting VOC’s, CFC’s, HCFC’s and formaldehyde are excluded by the specification.

Other Factors: A wood structure minimizes embodied energy. A manufactured, insulated structural wall and roof panel system will be used to reduce site construction wastes and improve the thermal performance of the building envelope. Layouts of pipes and ducts were optimized to reduce material content and pump and fan loads. Each space has individual controls for temperature, ventilation, and lighting. All exterior windows open.