Land Preservation: Sewanee Close consists of 125 acres, 80% of which will be preserved as woodland and a natural preserve for recreational use only. Reducing lot size and clustering the homes together preserves the remaining land for the natural habitat that has thrived over the generations. Homeowners have full access to the woodland with trails, observations areas,and picnic destinations.
Site Design
Sustainable site development seeks to maximize the quality of the built environment while minimizing any negative impact to the environment. This can be done with a simple respect for natural systems. The initial design plans include methods for responsible storm water management and erosion control, rain gardens, pollution prevention, construction waste reduction, light pollution reduction, water conservation, natural landscaping, narrow roads.
Landscape architects work the site and home design in the topography. Pedestrian lanes tie the community together and allow access to woodland trails.
Six Governing Principles of Sustainable Design:
- Respect for the Wisdom of Natural Systems
- Respect for the People
- Respect for Place
- Respect for the Cycle of Life
- Respect for Energy and Natural Resources
- Respect for the Process
- The Philosophy of Sustainable Design by Jason F Mclennan - Ecotone, 2004
House design: All houses will be required to meet either LEED for Homes certification standards or Earthcraft. Both standards provide third party verification that the home is energy efficient, healthy for inhabitants, use sustainable practices, and minimizes environmental impacts. (links to leed for homes and earthcraft site). Homeowners benefit from significant savings in energy costs, improved air quality, enhanced quiet and durability, mortgage enhancements, lower maintenance costs, as well as peace of mind. Homes will incorporate Universal Design elements (http://www.universaldesign.org/universaldesign1.htm) allowing access to all individuals.
