Case Study
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G-Projects LLC: 1521 19th Ave, Seattle
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Built Green Rating: 3 Star
Communities Checklist
Location: 1521 19th Ave, Seattle
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This month’s featured home is an infill townhome project at 1521 19th Ave on Capitol Hill in Seattle. Developed by G-Projects LLC these Built Green 3-Star townhomes feature cutting edge design coupled with the use of a wide variety of green finish materials. Building on infill sites takes advantage of existing infrastructure and reduces sprawl, so the project was green based on its location right from the start. To limit storm-water runoff G-Projects used pervious materials for at least one third of the total driveway, walkway and patio areas.
Energy features included a centrally located heating system inside the heated space, and the used clerestory for natural lighting. Indoor air quality measures included the use of exterior grade plywoods, low toxic finishes and adhesives, and an installation of whole house fans. The townhomes also boast no carpet showing a true commitment to promoting healthy indoor air.
What really sets this project apart is the contemporary design and use of attractive environmentally friendly finish materials. G-Projects used FSC Certified wood products, cork, bamboo, stained concrete and I-beams in achieving their totally unique signature design aesthetic. To finish off the townhomes, the exterior was clad in a 50-year siding product to ensure low maintenance and upkeep of the properties.
The many green features include:
Site and Water Protection
- Infill project relies on existing infrastructure and reduces sprawl
- Limited grading to less than 20 feet outside of building footprint
- Used pervious materials for at least one-third of total driveway, walkway and patio areas
- Use of slow release organic fertilizers to establish vegetation
- Use of low toxic outdoor lumber for landscaping
- No garages
- No turf grass
Using Energy Wisely
- Centrally located heating system to reduce size of system
- Located heating equipment inside the heated space
- High efficiency energy saving Energy Star® dishwashers, hot water, and refrigerator
- Location of water heater within 20 feet of highest use
- Programmable thermostats.
- Used clerestory for natural lighting
Health and Indoor Air Quality
- No carpet installed
- Installation of a ductless heating system
- Used low-VOC paints on all interior surfaces
- Ventilated with fans after each new finish was applied
- Whole house fan to effectively circulate air
- Hard surface floors to reduce allergens
- Garage fan vented to outdoors
- Low VOC grouts and mortars
- Use of exterior grade plywood for interior use
- Formaldehyde-free fiberglass insulation
Using Materials Wisely and Reducing Waste
- Recycling and salvaging of materials during construction
- Required sub-contractors to participate in waste reduction efforts
- Use of rapidly renewable resources; cork and bamboo
- FSC certified wood products help maintain ecological integrity of forests
- Many products with high durability and recycled content were used including Paperstone™ countertops, ceramic tile, cork, bamboo, and a 50-year siding product
- Use of local and regional products to reduce oil consumption in shipping and promote local economies.
- Used salvaged material for landscaping walls.
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