November 2012
Landis Homes recently celebrated the LEED® Gold certification received for its new expansion on the south part of its 114-acre campus. Established by the U.S. Green Building Council and verified by the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI), LEED is the nation’s preeminent program for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings. There are currently only a handful of LEED Gold structures in Lancaster County.
“Buildings are a prime example of how human systems integrate with natural systems,” said Rick Fedrizzi, President, CEO & Founding Chair, U.S. Green Building Council. “The Landis Homes project efficiently uses our natural resources and makes an immediate, positive impact on our planet, which will tremendously benefit future generations.”
“We are grateful to learn of this certification,” said Linford Good, Vice President of Planning and Marketing, “The effort to create efficient cottage and hybrid homes and use natural resources wisely is important to us. It speaks to our guiding value of stewardship in all aspects of our community. We are also grateful for the expertise of our partners in this project; Landscape Architecture/ Land Planning – RGS Associates, Architecture/Interior Design – RLPS Architects and General Contractor – Benchmark Construction.”
This project achieved LEED Gold certification for energy performance, water efficiency, low-emitting materials, recycled content as well as incorporating a variety of other sustainable strategies. By using less energy and water, LEED certified buildings save money for families, businesses and taxpayers; reduce greenhouse gas emissions; and contribute to a healthier environment for residents, workers and the larger community.
Project Features Contributing to LEED Certification
• Optimize Energy Performance – Geothermal mechanical system and other measures exceeded 45% energy cost savings compared to baseline building
• Water Efficiency – Ultra low-flow fixtures and rainwater harvesting
• Indoor Environmental Quality – Thermal comfort (high performance windows and increased insulation) and low-emitting materials (adhesives, paints, carpet)
• Sustainable Site – Open space (woodland, floodplain) and groundwater recharge and filtration systems to manage storm water (rain gardens, porous paving
