SAVE WATER
Owners can also limit storm runoff,
lower irrigation costs and landscape
maintenance, and lessen the impact
on waterways through sustainable site-
development practices. Additionally,
water-efficient designs often lower owner
costs for outdoor and common areas, as
well as resident utility costs.
Smart irrigation controllers ensure your
plants are watered and verify that your
systems are performing correctly. There are
also opportunities to use native plantings
and replace turf with drip irrigation.
IMPROVED AIR QUALITY
By using sustainable materials and
new installation techniques, the building
can benefit from enhanced indoor air
quality and lower transmission of sound
and odors between units. Eco-friendly
construction methods and materials also
reduce contaminants introduced into
the apartment air thanks to low levels of
volatile organic compounds in sealants,
coatings, paint, and adhesives.
utilizing tempered air from outside. This
not only helps increase resident comfort
and create a healthy living environment,
but it also enhances energy efficiency.
HIGHER RESALE VALUE
Several studies have demonstrated
that apartments and buildings near public
transportation are often more valuable
than similar properties without close access
to rail lines, subways, and bus routes.
Green homes within walking or biking
distance of stores and popular attractions
can also command higher rent, resident
retention, and higher resale value.
For example, many communities offer
covered bicycle storage, on-site bicycle
repair shops, or partner with a bike-sharing
service as a convenience to their residents
and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Some properties are also prioritizing onsite
fitness studios, business lounges, and game
rooms to prevent residents from having to
drive off community grounds to
access these activities.
IS THE FUTURE OF MULTIFAMILY
GREEN?
From refrigerators that monitor
residents’ hydration levels, to smart homes
that analyze a unit’s air quality, technology
is continually advancing and making
it easier for apartment communities to
incorporate green features into their units.
Sustainable living not only promotes
healthy lifestyles but also increases energy
efficiency and cuts costs. As a bonus, your
property doesn’t always have to break the
bank to integrate sustainable design into
the property. Residents increasingly desire
sustainable living in their everyday, and the
multifamily industry is in a great position to
benefit financially from this rising demand.
Ashley Tyndall is the Director
of Client Service and author at
Criterion B.
Further, some apartments are promoting
high air quality by automatically tracking
and adjusting temperature and humidity
for occupants. Automatic temperature
adjustments reduce the need to
heat or cool an apartment by
www.aamdhq.org
MAY 2019
TRENDS | 45