EHDA Grand Award: Primera Terra

MULTIFAMILY HOUSING

1 MIN READ

July 16, 2012

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The project achieved LEED-Platinum certification without any renewable energy systems thanks to its walkable urban location, efficient use of materials, and focus on energy conservation.

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The project achieved LEED-Platinum certification without any ren… The project achieved LEED-Platinum certification without any renewable energy systems thanks to its walkable urban location, efficient use of materials, and focus on energy conservation.

From its reduced footprint, high-performance HVAC systems, and extremely tight building envelope to tankless water heaters and energy-monitoring equipment in each unit, the Primera Terra condominium community exemplifies the best of efficient multifamily construction.

In fact, from outside to in, the 52-unit urban infill project was built with energy, water, and resource conservation in mind. Shop-fabricated walls and floor trusses provided high-quality, streamlined construction with less waste than traditional building. Radiant barrier roofing, R-21 wall insulation, housewrap, and low-E Energy Star windows optimized the building shell and allowed planners to reduce the size of the mechanical systems, resulting in heating and cooling bills as low as $57 a month.

The efficiencies continue inside each unit, where Energy Star-qualified appliances, lighting fixtures, and ceiling fans help ensure 40% more energy savings than California Title 24 standards. Project planners managed water use with WaterSense-certified faucets, toilets, and showerheads and Evolve ShowerStart adapters that turn the shower’s water flow to a trickle when it reaches 95 degrees F. TED 5000 energy-monitoring systems help residents track their energy usage, greenhouse gas emissions, and utility costs via a computer or a smartphone.

In addition to its bevy of high-performance features, the three-story building offers plenty of amenities, including granite countertops, private patios, and a community garden. The luxury condos are available in two- and three-bedroom options ranging in size from 965 to 1,504 square feet. “This looks like any luxury multifamily project, but it’s really green,” summed up one judge.