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Project Location: Fremont, CA

Project Size:  3,000SF

Date completed:  Fall 2010

Client:  Avalon Bay Communities

Contact:  Jackie Todesco - Project Manager

Additional Information:

Originally constructed in 1982, Avalon Warm Springs is a 244 unit multifamily residential complex located in Fremont, CA. The client, Avalon Communities, Inc., wished to improve the amenities for their Warm Springs residents. The existing amenity building, a 1,200 sq. ft. structure, did not suit the needs of the current residents, a largely “family oriented” community. The project scope will include the removal of the existing 1,200 sq. ft. building and the construction of a new 3,000 sq. ft. leasing center/resident amenity building. The owner requested that the design concept follow the company’s new “Healthy Green” renovation program which focuses on the promotion of a healthy life style through sustainable design. For the project, F+M Architects focused on (4) major areas of sustainable design.

Energy Conservation -
To achieve the greatest energy efficiency for the building envelope, F+M proposed a building skin comprised of wood framed walls with R-19 formaldehyde-free fiber glass insulation. The existing single-pane windows were replaced with high performance windows. The buildings’s roof material is a composite cool roof tile over radiant barrier sheathing. F+M sited the new building to obtain maximum sun exposure for both natural day lighting and for the installation of a future photovoltaic solar system. The use of skylights allowed for a reduction in electrical demand usually associated with artificial light fixtures. All interior lighting systems include occupant and daylight sensors for maximum efficiency.

Water Efficiency -
All plumbing fixtures to be installed in the project will be low-flow fixtures. Resident’s are encouraged to conserve water and are provided educational material to demonstrate how they can reduce water usage as resident’s of Warm Springs.

Material Re-use/Recycling -
Construction debris from the demolition of the existing building and construction of the new was directed to recycling/reuse centers. A majority of the building materials for the construction of the leasing center were obtained from local manufacturing. For example, the fiber-cement lap siding used for the building’s exterior skin is manufactured in California. The heavy timber used for the exterior entry wood trellis structure will be reclaimed lumber obtained from Northern California.

Indoor Air Quality -
All interior finishes scheduled for the project will be low-emitting (i.e. carpet tile, paint, sealants & adhesives).