H2O Apartments Seattle, WA 39,900 square feet

H2O Apartments Seattle, WA 39,900 square feet H2O Apartments epitomizes sustainable, dense urban development in a bustling Seattle neighborhood. The project’s developer sought to take maximum advantage of a relatively small urban site in order to provide workforce housing to a growing demographic that wants to live where they work and eliminate their dependency on cars. While early site design only captured 30 units, the architect was able to increase this to 45 units – a 50% increase in development capacity. This efficiency was achieved through the project’s unique elimination of systems, including the use of exterior walkways, removing unnecessary mechanical and electrical systems and reducing building and maintenance costs, while improving lighting and ventilation for residents. Lighting in the building’s underground parking structure is motion sensitive, and the exhaust system operates on a carbon monoxide meter, only running when necessary. This translates into a building that uses 16% less energy than its counterparts. The design’s thoughtful use of affordable and durable finishes such as metal and hardy siding on the exterior created a modern, attractive façade that is virtually maintenance-free and recyclable. Interior finishes mirrored this strategy with carpet-free, vinyl plank floors and hard-surface countertops, also providing healthier indoor air quality for residents. H2O is Certified LEED Gold through the LEED for Homes Midrise Pilot program. It also features a reflective roof that reduces cooling costs in the summer, and filters rainwater. A central hot water system eliminates water heaters in each unit. Every unit is equipped with Energy Star fixtures and high performance, triple glazed windows. A water balance system eases the building’s overall water consumption. A rain garden serves as a community feature in a common area while filtering rainwater and reducing the burden on the City’s storm water system. H2O is also wired for solar PV. The project strives to appeal to a broad range of renters. The diverse unit mix from townhouse-style to affordable studios meets housing needs for single occupants, families and low-income people equally. The project’s green spaces, retail, and live/work lofts at the street level serve as a connection to immediate neighbors. H2O is an exceptional example of how strategic design can significantly impact energy efficiency, improve occupant health and well-being, reduce ownership maintenance costs, and maximize lot size. H2O is currently outperforming two nearby projects, renting $.10 to $.25 more per square foot.

Exterior walkways

305,348

4,031

5,273

NATURAL GAS (THERMS) 350,408

ELECTRICITY (KWH)

Baseline

H2O

TOTAL ENERGY (MBTU)

45.1

1,445

53.8

EUI (KBTU/SF)

H2O

Baseline

1,723

H2O

Baseline

H2O

Baseline

H2O energy usage versus a standard building

Cross-section shows exterior walkways

Ventilation diagram