Castle Gardens was built as a first-of-its-kind supportive and affordable housing facility for homeless formerly incarcerated individuals and low income families. With this certification, Castle Gardens is now one of the first ten Energy Star multifamily buildings in the US as well as a partner of Enterprise Green Communities and NYSERDA Multifamily programs.
Castle Gardens is equipped with an energy-efficient green design. Energy savings at the project is achieved through high performance insulation system and high-efficiency HVAC, lighting systems, and controls. Over 70% of project’s electricity is achieved from renewable sources via green power purchase.
The complex features a rain harvesting system and an extensive green rooftop garden that encourages residents to grow their own herbs and vegetables. Innovative stormwater capture techniques have been incorporated along with re-use of green roof irrigation and cooling tower technology. The building realises 40% potable water consumption savings due to low flow fixtures and use of dual-flush toilet technologies.
The building also includes aluminum solar shades that block the intense summer sun and keep apartments cool, green paints, sealants and cabinetry that are free of toxic ingredients, a high-efficiency boiler and energy-efficient appliances and lighting.
Further sustainability highlights include 20% of construction materials containing recycled content and sourced regionally; 80% of wood used on the project being Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified; and over 75% of construction waste being diverted from landfill.
Castle Gardens offers 114 studio, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, a computer lab, library, community room, landscaped roof terraces and meditative area and a 20,000 square-feet Service Center that provides residents with counseling services, case management, financial planning and other essential life skill development courses.
The project was designed by Curtis + Ginsberg LLP while Steven Winter Associates, Inc. was the general contractor on the project.
Speak Your Mind