Benchmark Contractors Achieves LEED for Homes Platinum Rating at Casa Dominguez: First Multifamily Project in Los Angeles, Second in California to Receive Distinction

September 2, 2010

by California RealEstateRama

EAST RANCHO DOMINGUEZ, CA – September 2, 2010 – (RealEstateRama) — The sustainable building efforts of Benchmark Contractors working in collaboration with developer and architect Abode Communities, have resulted in Casa Dominguez, the first-ever LEED for Homes Platinum certified multifamily development in Los Angeles County and the second within the State of California.

Casa Dominguez, a 70-unit affordable housing complex in East Rancho Dominguez, achieved this historic feat by integrating the principles of sustainability at every turn. From the prefabricated framing system and ground source geothermal heat pump to on-site facilities that provide healthcare, childcare and community resources, this 3.5-acre former brownfield site has been transformed into a pillar of environmental responsibility.

“In my career I’ve never worked on, nor seen a greener project than Casa Dominguez,” said Carl Vizcarra, project manager at Benchmark. “It’s a testament to what can happen when you set out to change the rules of development.”

The project also utilizes Los Angeles’ first commercial gray-water system, an 84.87 kW solar photovoltaic system that powers 100 percent of the common areas and Energy Star appliances throughout every unit. Benchmark also installed high-efficiency windows, low-flow fixtures and blown-in insulation composed of recycled materials in all apartments.

Casa Dominguez’s LEED designation is all the more commendable considering the costs of going green had no effect on rental rates. Benchmark’s careful trade buyout and ongoing flexibility in responding to Abode’s added scope of sustainable requirements during the project created project savings as well as the opportunity to accelerate and finish the project six weeks earlier than planned.

The multifamily development’s rental rates range from 29 to 57 percent lower than market rents. Ten percent of the units are reserved for young adults that have been emancipated from the foster youth system and are ready to live independently. “Abode was extremely committed to the community on this project – both the residential community and the community at large would benefit from Casa Dominguez’s public amenities and its low-impact on the environment,” Vizcarra said. “This project will permanently alter the way people view affordable housing and green-building complexes.”

Aside from reduced utility bills, residents have the added benefit of knowing the complex is good for the environment and their families’ health. Casa Dominguez boasts superior indoor air quality that was achieved through low-VOC paints, bio-based floor tiles and flooring, low VOC-adhesive carpets and formaldehyde-free cabinets.

The layout also emphasizes natural light and ventilation to key areas like the kitchens and bathrooms. The interior temperature of the units is moderated by ceiling fans, a cool roof and hydronic climate control systems.

“We created a project that few contractors have tackled before,” Vizcarra said. “But when you’re given the opportunity to work with a committed developer and architect on something as ground-breaking and unique as Casa Dominguez, you summon all of your strengths and abilities to make it happen.”

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About Benchmark Contractors

Benchmark Contractors, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Santa Monica-based Morley Builders. Benchmark is skilled in all structure types including steel, concrete and wood-frame. Its diverse project experience consists of multifamily residential, mixed-use and transit-oriented developments, student housing/campus facilities and senior/assisted living facilities. For more information on Benchmark Contractors or its projects, please visit www.morleybuilders.com.

Contact:
Megan H. Folland LEED AP
Morley Builders

Morley Construction Company | Benchmark Contractors, Inc.
2901 28th Street, Suite 100, Santa Monica CA 90405
O (310) 399-1600 | D (310) 566-9232 | C (310) 529-4814
www.morleybuilders.com