Resources for the Washington DC area

About the LEED Certified
Blair Towns Apartments in Silver Spring, MD

The Blair Towns are the first apartments in the country to be designated LEED Certified by the U. S. Green Building Council. Some of the advanced design features include:

“Low-E” glass, which reduces heat buildup in the summer, and therefore reduces energy used for cooling,

Energy Star appliances are used.

Exterior walls have increased insulation.

Ceiling fans make a more comfortable room environment with reduced air conditioning.

The water heater and furnace have been combined. Energy that might be lost from heated water is used to help heat the apartment space.

Plumbing fixtures have reduced water flow for energy and water savings.

Electricity is sourced from 100% wind power. This is something that ANY apartment complex can do  to attract new renters. The cost difference between coal-burning and wind power is very small now.

The location was selected so that dwellers wouldn't have to own a car. They are close to the Red line Metro and shopping. Zip Car (rent by the hour) cars are on site.

This really represents a state of the art example for any new apartment construction in the US.