Going Green in the Desert

Respecting the environment is an essential part of high quality design, so as we planned aquaterra my team – including project architect Fujikawa Johnson Gobel Architects, Inc. – got a taste of the LEED™ certification process. It’s amazing to see just how many “little things” can combine to make a building friendlier to the environment.

So, for example, at aquaterra we’re:

• Using building materials made with recycled products and recycling as much construction site waste as possible.
• Selecting roofing and paving materials that help reduce “heat island effect” – a phenomena that occurs when urban and suburban temperatures are two – 10 degrees higher than nearby rural areas.
• Minimizing light “trespass” and glare from its buildings and site, improving nighttime visibility and making life better for our nocturnal neighbors.
• Installing controllable lighting and thermal systems; using low emitting paints, sealants, carpets and other products; and positioning windows so residents enjoy the maximum amount of natural light.
• Including low flow toilets and efficient fixtures that will help aquaterra residents and businesses reduce water consumption anywhere from 20 – 30 percent.
• Using energy systems that meet LEED standards, performing with the highest degree of efficiency in tandem with insulated windows to make indoor climate control easier.
• Creating a pedestrian-friendly community that encourages residents to leave their cars behind.

While incorporating these elements doesn’t require huge amounts of time or money, the result is a community that will give more than it takes from the environment. And we think our residents will literally be breathing easier because of it.