Horizon has many years of experience with developing, designing, building and managing energy efficient buildings in keeping with the Smart Growth and Green Design/Build principals. Horizon's skilled, professional staff
pays careful attention to efficient land use, storm water management, sustainable landscaping Green Design and Construction and long term management of properties to maximize energy conservation and asset life. Horizon employs LEED and NAHB Green Built accredited professionals to ensure that our projects implement the standards and support the initiatives of these programs.
The following are just some of Horizon's Green Initiatives by area of expertise
DEVELOPMENT
- Seek infill development whenever possible
- Maximize density in keeping with Smart Growth Principals
- Advocate for innovative storm water management plans and policies
- Apply for Planned Development Zoning to enhance green space retention
- Seek development sites with access to mass transit
- Seek development sites adjacent to retail and commercial services
DESIGN
- Design storm water systems to protect watersheds and increase wildlife habitat
- Create landscape plans that are sustainable and low impact
- Reduce hard scape, and runoff by right sizing parking areas and road patterns
- Incorporate vegetable and rain gardens whenever possible
- Utilize high efficiency cost effective HVAC systems
- Incorporate solar hot water systems whenever feasible
- Incorporate solar panels whenever feasible
- Design all common areas for the most efficient use of space to reduce heating
- Apartment plans designed for maximum efficiency
- Energy efficient Energy Star lighting systems with night lighting shut offs
- Occupancy sensors for lighting in common areas
- Water conserving common area wash machines
- Designs exceed International Building Code thermal envelope standards
- Low flow plumbing fixtures throughout
- Designs meet NAHB Green Built Sustainability and Energy Standards
- High efficiency Low E argon gas filled thermal pane window throughout
- Sealed ductwork to reduce energy loss
BUILD
- Utilization of sustainable construction techniques
- Construction material recycling program on all job sites
- Utilize Energy Star appliances
- Panelized construction method to reduce material consumption and waste
- Careful site management to control runoff
- Utilization of sustainable materials
- Continuous mentoring of subcontractors on green and sustainable construction methods
- Precise scheduling to minimize winter heat loss during construction
- Detailed commissioning procedure with owners to ensure efficient building operation
- Detailed warranty process to ensure continued operational efficiencies
- Use low VOC paints
MANAGE
- Consultation with design and construction staff prior to design of building
- Recommend method and material improvements to maximize life and efficiency
- Training on all building systems at turnover and commissioning
- Post construction review of building and systems with owner and design/build staff
- Annual review of thermal envelope and system efficiencies
- Energy audits every three years
- Energy utilization training for all tenants
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