Award winner

Palo Alto Multifamily, CA

California

Project Type Commercial | Multi-Family

Year Completed 2019

Project Size 34847 sq ft

SIPS Used 6" Exterior Walls

Sustainable Features Passive, Positive Energy, CAL Green Tier 2

Environmental Certifications Passive/PHIUS

Awards Green Builder MultiFamily of the year, SIPA BEA Project of the Year

Architect David Solnick

Structural Engineer Brian Von Allworden, Wright Engineering

Contractor Shell Building Systems

Project Overview

Located in the vibrant heart of downtown Palo Alto, 430 Forest Avenue is a collection of three-story sustainable luxury homes, featuring one penthouse, two townhomes, and ten apartments. The development showcases a Modern California exterior that harmonizes with the area's diverse architectural styles and rich historical character.

Design and Sustainability

The project's design includes a subterranean garage, which optimizes space and allows for a low-profile building mass, preserving natural light for adjacent properties. This strategic garage placement contributes to the building's unique undulation, enhancing architectural interest and maximizing natural light throughout the interiors.

Commitment to Green Building

Aiming for Zero-Energy and sustainable design, the project team pursued LEED Platinum certification, demonstrating a strong commitment to environmental responsibility. Compliance with California's Green Building Code Tier 2 further emphasizes this dedication. The incorporation of programmable Smart Home technologies and various sustainable features ensures luxurious living combined with day-to-day conservation and comfort.

SIPs Benefits

The use of 6-inch Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) from Premier SIPs is a standout element of 430 Forest Avenue. These panels provide numerous benefits, including:

Stronger, Straighter, Greener
Consistent and Predictably Engineered
Prefabricated: Build Faster with Less Labor
Continuous Insulation
Up to 60% Better Energy Efficiency
Energy Star Certified
UL Certification
Exceeds 2015 IBC, IECC & ASHRAE 90.1 Standards
Fire, Mold, Bug, and Impact Resistant
Reduces Total Cost of Construction

Sustainable & Smart Features

430 Forest Avenue was designed to positively impact residents' health while promoting renewable, clean energy. The airtightness of continuous framing achieved with Structural Insulated Panels significantly contributes to customer health, comfort, and energy efficiency. Other sustainable and smart features include:

CA Green Building Code Tier 2 Compliance: 45% better than CA Title 24 Energy Code
LEED Platinum Certification
Structural Insulated Wall Panels: High insulated value
Micro Zoning High-Efficiency HVAC System with Heat Pump: Locked out when windows are open
PV System: Produces 100% of projected energy
Heat Pump Water Heaters & Clothes Dryer
All LED High-Efficiency Lighting: Natural lighting design
Smart-Things Controller: Occupant-controlled lighting in all common areas and inside units
Video Monitoring in Common Areas
All Electric, No Gas Service: Reduces fire risk
Induction Cooking
EV Level II Chargers: For every unit
Long-Lasting PVC White Reflective Roof
Stuc-O-Flex Water Way Rainscreen Drainage Mats: Facilitates drainage and air flow
Stuc-O-Flex Elastomeric Acrylic Finish
Cellular PVC Trim
Powder-Coated Metal Railings: On balconies and decks
Wood Grain High-Definition Digital Inkjet-Printed Aluminum Siding
Permeable CalStone Pavers: Allows movement of stormwater through the surface, reduces run-off, and filters contaminants before entering groundwater
Recycled Gray Water: Used for landscaping
Plumbed for Toilet Flushing Using Gray Water: Future addition