HHA is striving for Platinum level LEED certification for Gateway Place. LEED stands for Leadership in Energy Efficiency and Design. LEED certification is a green building system that makes sure the work done provides “energy savings, water efficiency, CO2 emissions reduction, improved indoor environmental quality, and stewardship of resources and sensitivity to their impacts.” LEED certification is run through the US Green Building Council, their website is http://www.usgbc.org/. Special attention was given to Gateway Place building features that relate directly to the reduction of long-term operations costs through reduced energy consumption, water consumption and improved environmental sustainability.
The following is a listing of the major items incorporated into the building design:
Relocation of storm water retention to underground chambers, allowing for future development of the site, consistent with LEED Sustainable Sites credit for surface water management.
Use high efficiency landscape irrigation consistent with LEED Sustainable Sites credit for Water Efficiency.
Concrete Paving for greater durability and compliance with LEED Sustainable Sites recommendation for reducing local heat island effect.
Use of permeable pavers at pedestrian courtyard areas in lieu of concrete in order to improve storm water run-off impact.
Use of a highly efficient chiller / boiler mechanical system in lieu of less efficient individual spit systems consistent with LEED Energy and Atmosphere credits for optimizing energy performance.
Incorporation of highly efficient hot water heating and distribution, consistent with LEED Energy and Atmosphere credits for optimizing energy performance.
Use of water-saving lavatories and showers as well as pressure assist toilets to reduce water consumption.
Limit specifications to Environmentally Preferable Products, consistent with LEED Materials and Resources credit.
Require sustainable management of construction waste through recycling and diversion from landfill, consistent with LEED Materials and Resources credit for waste management.
Use of mold resistant drywall, consistent with LEED Indoor Environmental Quality credit.
Use of superior quality air filters, consistent with LEED Indoor Environmental Quality credit.
Incorporation of Radon protection system, consistent with LEED prerequisite.
Use of enhanced insulation, exceeding R-value requirements of IECC, and consistent with LEED Energy and Atmosphere credits.
Use of “exceptional” rated windows for thermal and air infiltration performance, consistent with LEED Energy and Atmosphere credits.
Incorporation of an energy monitoring system to allow metering of energy and water use at individual tenant apartments.
Use of Energy Star light fixtures and appliances, consistent with LEED Energy and Atmosphere credits.
Use of all masonry and metal exterior materials for building durability and minimal maintenance requirements.
For Frequently Asked Questions on the LEED for Homes certification system, please click here.
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