Alameda Library is the first green building in Alameda. And now, 1533 Morton Street is the first green home that adheres to the green building principles as outlined by the Smart Communities Network
GREEN BUILDING PRINCIPLES 
Energy efficiency and renewable energy resources. Building strategy, cost-effective energy technologies, proper siting, renewable energy systems are all designed to reduce the amount of energy the property needs to operate and to keep its occupants comfortable. Photovoltaic system is just one of many technologies used by this home.
Environmental impact. By building the home as an infill, it preserves the site's integrity, natural characteristics. A common definition of infill is "the use of vacant land and property within a built-up area for further construction or development, especially as part of a neighborhood preservation or limited growth program."
Resource Conservation. Some examples include selecting materials that have some recycled content, installing water-conserving and energy-efficient products. The home features non-toxic and recycled denim/blue jeans for insulation. The benefits are many.
Indoor Air Quality Avoid construction and interior products that release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and ensure interior spaces are adequately ventilated.
Community Issues. This home is just down the block to the bus stop where one can get on the express bus to San Francisco. Its Walk Score is a high 82 which deems it "very walk able" and encourages bicycling and walking to amenities that include shopping and recreational facilities.
INTRODUCING: 1533 Morton Street. Take a look at the long list of green elements of this fabulous home.
THE HOME (Take a look at more photos by clicking on Alameda's first green home)
- Built in 2009
- 3 bedrooms
- 3.5 baths
- 2000 sq ft of living space
- 1-car attached garage with combination touch pad
- 1-car driveway parking
- Front door security system with color monitor
INDOOR AIR QUALITY
- Central vacuum cleaning system
- Exhaust fan in garage for carbon monoxide removal
- Carbon monoxide alarm and smoke detectors at door to garage
- Permanent walk-off matting system at entrance
- Low VOC paint and finishes
- Kitchen exhaust fan vented outside
- All non-toxic cotton insulation made of recycled cotton denim/blue jeans
- Air ducts and vents protected during construction
WATER CONSERVATION
- All plumbing fixtures are Grohe water-saving fixtures
- Energy Star rated water saver. Bosch dishwasher
- Dual flush toilets by Toto
- Timers at all irrigation systems
- Drought/heat tolerant 90% Tall Fescue/10% Bluegrass blend
- Native species plants with no invasive species, with mulch and compost at landscaping
COMMUNITY
- Efficient 2000 sq ft floor plan with creative design
- Urban infill lot
- High Walk Score, near shops, services, public transport
- Homeowner manual of green features and benefits
- Site orientation for solar panels. ventilation systems
ENERGY CONSERVATION
- 2.45 kW rated solar energy system
- 92% high efficiency heating system with heat recovery ventilation
- Tank-less on-demand hot water system within 24 ft of all hot water fixtures and appliances
- Insulation at all hot water pipes
- All ductwork installed within conditioned spaces
- Energy Star rated appliances by Bosch and Liebherr
- Compact fluorescent recessed lighting
- Energy saving lighting and fan controls
- High efficiency insulated Kolbe windows and doors with low-e glazing
- Passive design elements for natural lighting and ventilation
- Windows at garage door for natural light and ventilation
RESOURCE CONSERVATION
- 40-year composition shingle roofing
- Caesar Stone countertops-recyclable content
- Durable Trex decking material with reclaimed wood and plastic content
- Built-in recycling center
- Bamboo flooring in main living areas
- Cork flooring in bedrooms
- Stained concrete floor at entry level
- Custom bamboo cabinets in kitchen and bathrooms
- Deconstruct existing structure onsite and reuse for siding at historic home
- Air construction debris was sorted and diverted for reuse
- 25% ash in concrete for slab and foundation
- Engineered wood at structural beams and floor joist systems
- Cementitious siding with recycled content and 15-year factory paint with warranty
- Pre-wired for cable TV, telephone with Cat5e, network ready
By the way, for folks who don't know where Alameda is --- it's an island on San Francisco Bay, just across the Bay and the Bay Bridge from San Francisco CA. Easy commute to the City and other places in the East Bay. Come see us!
Comments(8)