According to the John M. Corcoran and Co., The Commons at SouthField Highlands has achieved LEED Silver from the USGBC. The Commons at SouthField Highlands, which opened in May 2012, was certified for its eco-friendly construction, green maintenance practices and design innovations.
The certification extends John Corcoran and Co.'s commitment to green building and sustainable design principles. The organization constructed the first large-scale apartment community in New England to achieve USGBC recognition in 2009.
In building The Commons at SouthField Highlands, Corcoran and Co. implemented practical and measurable strategies and solutions focused on sustainable site development, water conservation, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality.
This approach delivered efficiencies to reduce utility use and preserve natural resources while minimizing or eliminating the impacts of chemicals on the environment. The community benefitted from unique green design innovations and mandatory use of green cleaning products as part of an environmentally friendly housekeeping plan.
The management team also educate and inform residents about the community's commitment to green living and sustainable principles such as recycling, reusing and conserving natural resources. In addition, The Commons at SouthField Highlands is 100% smoke-free. Residents agree that they will not smoke in their home, in any of the common areas, or on the exterior grounds of the property.
Elements of the Commons at SouthField Highlands' green building success include:
Water conservation: Low-flow toilets, shower heads and faucets combined with drip irrigation in exterior landscaped areas contribute to the community's 35% reduction in water use.
Energy efficiency: The Commons at Southfield Highlands is 20% more energy efficient than traditional apartments in part because apartment homes include energy efficient lighting and appliances and hot water heaters that are 96% energy efficient, occupancy sensors are located in common areas reduce energy usage and the buildings' exteriors include efficient insulation and windows.