With an efficient building envelope and high-performance products, a luxury LEED-Platinum multifamily project in West Los Angeles is geared to keeping residents’ utility costs low.
The Primera Terra development is 40% more energy efficient than new home standards set by California’s Title 24 green building code. In addition, each condominium owner has an energy monitoring system to track energy use, greenhouse gas emissions, and energy costs online or via smart phone.
Built by KB Home and designed by KTGY Group, the 52-unit community meets LEED-Platinum standards without incorporating a solar power system or other renewable energy source, notes architect Manny Gonzalez, KTGY Group principal.
Project planners looked for ways to reduce construction costs, he says. Architects created a re-design solution atop an existing subterranean garage, minimizing new slab penetrations. In addition, shop-fabricated walls and floor trusses provided streamlined construction and less waste.
With units priced between $518,000 and $599,000 the Primera Terra community is located in a highly walkable neighborhood, adjacent to parks, walking trails, and a community center. It is convenient to transit, employment, and entertainment.
Other sustainable features include: •High-performance windows and insulation to help reduce heating and cooling needs.
•Programmable thermostats to optimize energy usage.
•Radiant barrier roofing to help shield the building from the sun.
•A KB Home Energy Performance Guide to estimate residents’ monthly energy costs.
