Condo Pro: The Ongoing Greening of Condos

By Barbara Lawlor

When we think of the buzzword “green” in new condominiums, the first things that comes to mind is not the colour, but items such as green roofs and energy-efficient windows. There are many smart technologies and environmentally friendly materials available today, and condominiums are leaving a much smaller carbon footprint than ever before. Integrating energy-efficient and other sustainable features into condominiums saves suite owners money on utilities costs and creates healthier and more comfortable surroundings. I applaud builders and developers for taking the environment to heart and paying a great deal of attention to green elements as they design and create new communities.

It is also amazing how sophisticated buyers are today when it comes to making environmental responsibility part of their purchase decisions. We hear from them all the time that they checked out the green elements of the buildings they considered before signing on the dotted line. Savvy shoppers also appreciate the opportunity to select “green” finishes for their suites. Hardwood flooring is a great example. These floors are available in an amazing assortment of colours and textures. They are beautiful, durable and a wise choice for anyone who has allergies. Natural stone countertops are also rising as a preference. And really, nothing beats the beauty and wear-ability of granite, quartz and Caesarstone for your work surfaces.

The industry’s commitment to environmentally responsible building is exemplary. Every year, BILD and the Ontario Home Builders’ Association present “Green Builder of the Year” awards, and the Canadian Home Builders’ Association has a “Green Home” category for its awards. In addition, EnerQuality presents annual awards for efforts in advancing energy-efficient, green and sustainable homes and communities. Even Ontario Building Code has been changed to include more stringent standards in terms of energy efficiency.

New home buyers also benefit from the third-party verification organizations through which builders can apply voluntarily for certification. These involve grading systems that require builders to achieve specific criteria to earn certification. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®), for example, sets out guidelines for architects, engineers and construction professionals in how to increase the efficiency in buildings and how to measure sustainability. Residential buildings have to be built and occupied to receive LEED certification. Green Globes is another example. This program sets out standards to be met including items such as individual suite metering of electricity and water and a Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV) to outperform conventional condominiums in sustainability and energy efficiency.

You will notice that today’s developers often offer ENERGY STAR® appliances for added efficiency. Our innovative builders and developers are also adopting new techniques during the construction process that minimize waste through the reuse and recycling of materials wherever possible.

So during your condo shopping, ask about the green elements in the buildings you are considering, and look at what they mean to both the environment and your lifestyle. Take the green roof. This landscaped area may be a beautiful spot where you can barbecue and dine outdoors while enjoying  city and/or lake views. On a practical note, green roofs help to improve air quality and reduce direct energy use, and some feature receptacles for rainwater that is then reused for the building’s landscaping.

To reduce a condominium’s carbon footprint, builders are also including car share and bike storage facilities that reduce the production of greenhouse gas emissions. Walking and bicycling can help you keep your body slim and your pocketbook fat by eliminating the expense of vehicle use. Win-win!

The condominium greening trend is here to stay. Take comfort in the fact that when you buy a suite in a new condominium, you get the most up-to-date features and finishes that are both beautiful and environmentally friendly.

Barbara Lawlor is president of Baker Real Estate Incorporated and an in-demand columnist and speaker. A member of the Baker team since 1993, she oversees the marketing and sales of condominium developments in the GTA and overseas. Keep current with The Baker Blog at blog.bakerrealestate.com