Sustainable Development: Building for the Future
How Canterbury Development Group integrates energy efficiency and sustainability into every project without compromising affordability.
Sustainability in affordable housing isn't a luxury—it's a necessity. At Canterbury Development Group, we've made sustainable building practices central to our development approach. Here's how we're building for the future while keeping housing affordable today.
Why Sustainability Matters in Affordable Housing
Low-income families spend a disproportionate share of income on utilities. Energy-efficient housing directly improves affordability by reducing utility costs, sometimes by 30-40% compared to standard construction. Additionally, sustainable buildings last longer and require less maintenance, preserving affordability over time.
Our Sustainable Building Strategies
We integrate sustainability throughout the development process:
- Energy-Efficient Design: Building orientation, window placement, and insulation that reduce heating and cooling needs
- High-Performance HVAC: Energy Star certified systems that deliver comfort while minimizing energy use
- LED Lighting: Long-lasting, efficient lighting throughout all units and common areas
- Water Conservation: Low-flow fixtures that reduce water consumption without sacrificing performance
- Durable Materials: Quality construction materials that last longer and require less replacement
- Indoor Air Quality: Ventilation systems and low-VOC materials that protect resident health
Financial Benefits
While sustainable features may increase upfront costs slightly, they create significant long-term value. Reduced utility allowances in LIHTC projects improve cash flow. Lower utility costs help residents avoid housing cost burden. And quality construction reduces maintenance expenses over the property lifecycle.
Resident Education
Sustainable features only deliver benefits if residents know how to use them. We provide education on energy-efficient practices, proper HVAC maintenance, and water conservation. This resident engagement maximizes the impact of our sustainable investments.
Green Certifications
Several of our projects have achieved formal green building certifications, including Energy Star and EarthCraft. These certifications provide third-party verification of our sustainability commitments and often unlock additional financing benefits and tenant appeal.
Climate Resilience
As climate patterns change, we're designing for resilience. This includes stormwater management systems that handle intense rainfall, cooling systems sized for warmer temperatures, and landscape designs using native, drought-resistant plants. Climate resilience protects our investment while serving residents better.
Innovation and Improvement
Sustainable building technology continues to evolve, and we're committed to continuous improvement. We monitor building performance, track utility consumption, and incorporate lessons learned into each new project. This iterative approach keeps us at the forefront of sustainable affordable housing development.
The Bottom Line
Sustainability and affordability aren't competing goals—they're complementary. By building sustainably, we create housing that's more affordable to live in, healthier for residents, and better for the environment. It's simply the right way to build.
At Canterbury Development Group, sustainable development isn't a marketing slogan—it's how we do business. Every project reflects our commitment to building for today while protecting tomorrow.