Post Properties Incorporates Green Features in New Properties

By Lisa Iannucci, Green Building CorrespondentAtlanta–Although many green-building projects are working toward Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) achievement, some companies are implementing green techniques without applying for certification.Eastside, a new 14.8-acre mixed-use development in Dallas and a collaboration of Post Properties, Skyrise Properties and Greenway Investment Inc., is one such project. The development will transform an existing office building and parking lot into 80,000 sq. ft. of retail and 435 apartments. Leasing availability started in March this year. The project employs several green building techniques including xeriscaping, which minimizes the need for irrigation. Post, the developer of the project, irrigates only 20 percent of its properties with low-volume “drip” irrigation techniques and offers residents Urban Vegetable Gardens (UVGs), providing them with the location, plants and tools.“The community integrates the convenience of transportation, the luxury finishes of city living and lush green spaces in one of Dallas’ finest suburban communities,” says David Ward, executive vice president and regional investment director of Post Properties’ Southwest region.Post Alexander, a community that features 307 luxury apartment homes in Atlanta, will include an eco-friendly green roof that will minimize heat gain on a sunny day through vegetation planted on it. This roof also limits the building’s water runoff, absorbing rainwater before sending it into the city drainage system. Post Eastside residents will also enjoy six gathering courtyards in addition to the one-acre central park.