A Look at the First 2020 NGBS Green Certified Building

A nine-unit condominium building by Marnella Homes in Portland, Ore. has secured the first 2020 National Green Building Standard certification. The Greenwich Condos not only secured the first certification, but the highest level available, Emerald. In addition, the development earned a NGBS Green+ WELLNESS badge, which denotes buildings that are higher performing, according to the National Association of Home Builders. There were three focuses Marnella Homes had: resident health, comfort, and energy efficiency. In addition to the interior features and home design, the building is near public transportation and has high walk and bike scores.

Features include:

• Fresh air exchange via a whole-home fan;
• High efficiency ducted mini-splits;
• Above-code insulation to improve both acoustics and energy efficiency;
• South-facing windows for passive lighting;
• Private outdoor space for each homeowner;
• Advanced framing; and
• Rooftop solar panels providing 1.95 kW for each home (which offsets approximately 30% of the each unit’s power needs).
• The project was also designed and constructed to provide these features at an attainable price for the target market: singles and young couples.

“I wanted these to be healthy, comfortable, energy efficient and provide features that our buyers aren’t seeing at this price range,” noted Tony Marnella, NAHB member and owner of Marnella Homes.

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