“ The 3 Palms project is a cutting edge example of green design and construction. The general contractor Allen Associates is already recognized as a leading green builder in the region. Through the decision to pursue additional 3rd party certifications in regard to energy efficiency and environmental friendliness the client has taken additional steps to both set themselves apart from “traditionally accepted” building methods while at the same time raising the bar for other similar projects nationwide.
The project is pursuing both the US Green Building Council- Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (USGBC-LEED) Platinum rating, which is the highest achievable rating for that system. At this stage the project is on track to receive the platinum designation, and all indications are that it will achieve that designation. More information can be found about the specific criteria of the rating system at http://www.leedforhomes.org/OST/homepage.aspx
In addition to the already stringent evaluation process that USGBC-LEED provides, the project has ambitiously enrolled in another emerging certification program here in the USnamed Passive-House. This rating system originated in Germanyas the Passiv-Haus rating system. This rating program is simply a “pass/fail” type program with various thresholds to be met on aspects such as air infiltration or home “tightness”, overall energy consumption and efficiency of the mechanical systems. The 3 palms project is one of the first complete new construction projects to pursue this designation here in the US. While there have been other retrofit or remodel projects that have been awarded passive house, this is one of the first larger homes of it’s kind here in CA. This is a very tough designation to achieve here in the USwhere tightness standards and building methodologies often differ drastically than those in cold European countries with higher efficiency standards. The designers and building team have considered these requirements during the design process, and worked extensively to find mechanical systems that would qualify. For more information about this rating system please visit http://www.passivehouse.us/passiveHouse/PHIUSHome.html
The team has been working with outside consultants for both the LEED and Passive-House designations. The 3rd party rating systems either require or suggest working with a representative individual to help guide the process. At the time of this report we have what equates to two “thumbs up” from our consultants on the projected certifications. This is an exciting project to be part of, and I look forward to continuing the process until the final awards are received by the very deserving client and team.”
Hope that is what you were looking for.
Jon Heffner, LEED AP, BPI BA
Project Coordinator
Allen Associates - Building Green for Healthier Living