The Studios at South Richmond
EarthCraft Virginia would like to congratulate Virginia Supportive Housing for recently certifying the Studios at South Richmond, a 21 studio apartment complex in Richmond, VA. Built by Community Housing Partners (CHP) general contracting division to meet and exceed the EarthCraft Virginia program requirements. The project’s Home Energy Rating (HERs) scored a 58 – 42% more energy efficient than a code built project. The Studios at South Richmond represents Virginia’s most energy efficient certified EarthCraft Multifamily project to date.
Richmond based BAM Architects designed a high performance building envelope that included Energy Star rated casement windows and thermal bridge reducing continuous exterior and roof insulation. Due to EarthCraft’s diligent air sealing requirements, these apartments utilized Panasonic’s Whisper Comfort spot energy recovery ventilators (ERV) to provide fresh air to the building’s occupants. The heating and cooling system was made up of high efficiency ductless mini-splits. A 20.4 kW photovoltaic solar system provided more than 20% of the project’s energy demand. Energy Star appliances, low voc paints/finishes (for enhanced indoor air quality), a rain garden, and drought tolerant landscaping rounded out the project’s sustainable design.
The solar array was provided by Urban Grid.
The Studios at South Richmond represents Virginia Supportive Housing’s 4th certified EarthCraft Multifamily project. With 203 certified apartments and one project currently under construction, Virginia Supportive Housing continues to set the bar for sustainable affordable housing.
