High Place Apartments was conceived as a series of volumes oriented around large, open courtyards that bring natural ventilation and sunlight into each residential unit while promoting a sense of community and connectivity with the surrounding neighborhood.
Set in a three-story, low-density zone, the floor plans consist of two and three-bedroom units with open floor plans and large windows. The building plans promote openness and further the communal aspect of the design with open-air corridors and walkways connecting the buildings and site.
Sustainable design was a strong contributing concept that was a part of the project design from its inception. The project utilizes both solar photovoltaic and solar thermal systems in addition to Energy-Star appliances, high-efficiency plumbing fixtures, zero-VOC paint, FSC-certified cabinetry and millwork throughout, Greenguard certified fiberglass insulation with 20% recycled content, CRI Green Label carpeting in all spaces, 15% fly-ash content concrete, an Energy-Star rated cool roof, a non-vinyl composite lap siding with a 50-year warranty, low-e glass and LED fixtures.
In lieu of sod, Grasspave2 was installed around the site in both community gathering areas and areas for maintenance vehicle access to minimize site irrigation and unwanted site runoff.