St. Louis Senior Housing Wins LEED Platinum

By Dees Stribling, Contributing Editor

St. Louis—National Church Residences Telegraph Road, which is a newly completed senior housing development in St. Louis, has won LEED Platinum. The three-story property includes 45 one-bedroom apartments for income-qualified older adults.

Among other sustainable features, the structure’s HVAC systems include high-efficiency heat pumps and heat recovery ventilators to enhance energy efficiency and provide a ready supply of fresh air. The heat recovery ventilators are Energy Star rated, as are the in-unit refrigerators, dishwashers and lighting packages. The building envelope has enhanced insulation and air infiltration is minimized.

The site is located within walking distance of various resources for shopping, banking and healthcare, as well as transit stops. Besides being an amenity for residents, the location counts as a significant benefit from a green building perspective.

Sol design + consulting of Cincinnati provided energy consulting and green building certification services for the National Church Residences development. St. Louis Design Alliance designed the property.

The nonprofit Ohio-based National Church Residences began developing senior housing in the early 1960s, and its portfolio now includes independent living in more than 400 properties, plus supportive services in an 82-unit apartment community, a 25-unit assisted living facility and skilled nursing care in a 50-unit convalescent center. In 2001, Bristol Gardens, a 12-unit Alzheimer’s care retreat, was added to that campus.