Multi-Housing News - September 2008 - (Page 20)

special report Green Design Makes ‘Cents’ One of the biggest cost savers, believe it or not, is simply the incorporation of sustainable features early in the design process By Keat Foong, Executive Editor Green developments do not necessarily have to cost that much more. In the development of green multi-housing, certain measures are relatively cost-efficient but still go a long way toward achieving environmental sustainability. The items and measures “can literally range from zero to hundreds of thousands of dollars,” says Michael Massie, housing development manager with the affordable housing developer Jamboree Housing Corp. For example, many of the items on Jamboree’s green development checklist “simply required resourcefulness and creativity, not excessive expense,” says the company. Low-VOC paints and dual-flush toilets are examples of green products that cost very little extra to incorporate, says Massie. “The difference in price for VOC versus non-VOC paints is pretty incidental,” he adds. “And low-flush toilets have a dramatic impact, but cost just a few hundred dollars more.” One measure that costs nothing extra but takes a big step in the direction of green building is orienting the building correctly in relation to the sun’s exposure. In order to incorporate such measures and get the best bids from contractors, developers are advised to start planning their green strategies early, at the start of the design process. “The design process, if done correctly from the beginning, helps to find the strategic orientation of the building and take advantage of prevailing winds. These steps do not add to the cost of the building, but have a positive effect on the environ- 20 September 2008 | Multi-Housing News | Producer of Multi-Housing World

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Multi-Housing News - September 2008

Multi-Housing News - September 2008
Contents
Calendar of Events
From the Editor
Executive Insight
Property Management: Growth Plans
Development & Design: Low-Rise Trends
Market Pulse
Special Report: Green Design Makes 'Cents'
Market Report: Boston
Top Architects List
Finance: HUD
Products: Cabinetry
Tech Report: Internet Listing Services
NMHC Notebook
Property Showcase: Fitness Center

Multi-Housing News - September 2008