Members of the Board of Commons CDC and its architect Kathy Dorgan participated in a day-long charette to learn more about how to create a housing development that meets high standards for sustainability. This is part of Commons CDC’s participation in the International Living Futures Initiative (ILFI).
The meeting was held on Monday, January 6, 2025 at the world headquarters of HMTX Industries, which is also participating in the International Living Futures initiative. We toured the company’s beautiful building, which uses healthy, sustainable materials, and energy efficient systems, and brings the outside natural world in with its walls of floor to ceiling windows and plants.
Leaders from Steven Winters Associates and Paul Selnau of Schadler Selnau Associates also attended the charette to provide background, data, and guidance to Commons CDC. Board members left the day inspired and committed to incorporate as many sustainable practices into Church Street Commons as possible. We learned that it is possible to build buildings that are energy efficient, sustainable, built in concert with the natural surroundings, that honor the history and culture of the land and community, and are made with natural materials that create a healthier and more beautiful environment for residents.