Green
Green building design and construction. An integral element of Light House Point.
Sustainable building practices aren’t just good for the planet. They also increase energy efficiency, reduce maintenance, and provide a healthier, more comfortable living environment for families and pets. That’s why we made such a strong commitment to integrating green construction and design into the residences at Light House Point.
Every aspect of the community was designed with the seaside New England climate in mind. In order to minimize the effects of our cold winters, cool, wet springs, warm, humid summers, and other harsh elements, we utilized a careful balance of economic, environmental, and social/cultural sustainability criteria. These include:
- Traditional New England architecture and design
- Energy performance
- Indoor air quality
- Environmentally-friendly construction materials
- Pedestrian friendly infrastructure
- Generous common areas and open space
- Ongoing landscape maintenance
Traditional New England architecture and design
Specifications include Hardy shingles with minimal maintenance requirements, lightly colored roofs to deflect heat and light, Anderson 400 series high-efficiency windows, cellulose insulated walls, weather-tight Advantech Zip system and entrance vestibules.
Energy performance
While the project has a pending LEED certification application in process, all construction exceeds the requirements of the EPA’s ENERGY STAR Home Program. Both programs ensure that homes provide comfort, durability, and healthy environments through the installation of appropriate systems and materials to maximize the home’s efficiency.
Indoor air quality
The tight envelope construction and cellulose insulation create a tight seal from the wide range of New England’s weather. Our use of formaldehyde-free plywood, low- or no-volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for interior paint and adhesives, and mold-resistant materials at tub/shower enclosures provides for a safer, healthier home. Practices include proper ventilation of combustion equipment and gas fireplaces, and exhaust technology for kitchens and bathrooms that prevent the buildup of pollutants, humidity, and odors.
Environmentally-friendly construction materials
Throughout, Light House Point has used construction materials that have low chemical emissions and are less harmful to humans and the environment. These include products that are sustainable, contain recycled content, and/or are rapidly renewable. These products have widespread use and have been proven to be durable and to perform comparably to, if not better than conventional products with high design and style.
Pedestrian friendly infrastructure
Sidewalks, paths, and trails have been incorporated throughout the community to encourage walking. Additionally, the community’s compact design and the proximity to public transportation promotes pedestrian activity and reduces the creation of greenhouse gases.
Generous common areas and open space
Gardens, greenscape, and open space have been incorporated throughout the community.
Every attempt has been made to minimize impervious surfaces and destruction of habitat in order to preserve clean air, water, and a diverse landscape of native species to support beneficial birds, bees, and other insects. The use of drought-tolerant native plants reduces water use, while the planned rainwater runoff feeds back into the aquifer rather than into the sewers.
Ongoing landscape maintenance
Only organic fertilizers that contain no phosphorus and low concentrations of nitrogen will be used on site. In addition, the use of non-toxic pest control and high-efficiency, low flow irrigation has been implemented as part of the community’s standard operating practices.
