Kottinger Gardens Phase 1 Green Features
LEED Certification by the U.S. Green Building Council
LEED is an internationally recognized certification program through the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) that provides independent verification of a building or neighborhood’s green features. LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. LEED for Homes is a green home certification program that rewards homes that are designed and built to be energy and resource efficient. LEED certified homes are known to be more healthy and durable for occupants than conventionally built homes. They complete a technically rigorous process that includes onsite inspections and performance testing; early coordination within the design team; and active participation by a certified LEED for Homes Green Rater; to verify the building is built to be energy and water efficient, environmentally sound, and a healthier place to live.
It is our pleasure to announce that the first phase of Kottinger Gardens is pursuing a LEED for Homes Platinum rating. This is the highest rating achievable in the LEED for Homes rating system.
Kottinger Gardens Phase 1
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency increases human comfort while reducing its impact on the environment. This project exceeded California’s 2008 energy code by 38.6%. This was achieved by insulation that was installed properly, highly efficient windows, and a solar hot water system designed to offset approximately 50% of the natural gas needed for the project’s hot water demand. Energy Star appliances and high efficacy lighting also contribute to reducing the project’s carbon footprint. The solar electric system is estimated to offset about 8% of the common area electrical load.
Indoor Air Quality
The ventilation system for each unit was tested to ensure that the correct amount of fresh air is delivered to building occupants. This is not only important for the health and well being of the occupants, but also reduces moisture inside the building. All installed flooring is either FloorScore or Green Label Plus certified, meaning these materials emit less harmful chemicals than traditional flooring.
Water Efficiency
Kottinger Gardens Phase 1 is doing its part to reduce the impact on California’s water system through thoughtful landscape design and water efficient plumbing fixtures. The landscaping contains approximately 90% drought tolerant plant species and is irrigated with a highly efficient irrigation system.