Seattle-based building technology firm Sustainable Living Innovations has broken ground on what’s touted as the world’s first multifamily high-rise that will meet the net-zero energy requirements set by the International Living Future Institute.
Through innovative new construction technology and high-performance building design, the 15-story 303 Battery in Seattle’s Belltown neighborhood will perform at high levels of energy efficiency as well as deliver 112 apartment units, with 27 designated as affordable.
“Our proprietary technology, construction process, sustainable materials, and smart-living technologies give tenants a beautiful, comfortable home that produces no greenhouse gas emissions,” said Arlan Collins, CEO of Sustainable Living Innovations. “Even though we are announcing a groundbreaking, in reality, 85% of the walls, floors, stairs, and elevators are already complete and in our Tacoma factory. 303 Battery sets a new standard for building well-designed and sustainable living spaces.”
Sustainable Living Innovations is constructing the development with its proprietary, tech-enabled building technology system. According to the firm, it will include approximately 900 panels that are pre-manufactured with electrical wiring, plumbing, and mechanical equipment pre-installed. After the sub-basement and foundation are completed, the panels will be transported to the site for assembly. The crews will then erect the high-rise by fitting the panels together in an exact sequence.
With less on-site construction work required, the high-rise is expected to go up more quickly than a conventionally built building. It’s slated to be completed and ready for occupancy in summer 2022.
The 100% electric high-rise is expected to use less than half the energy and one-third less water than a similar sized multifamily building. 303 Battery will feature more than 600 on-site solar panels on the building’s roof, exterior walls, and balconies; on-site battery storage to cover nighttime use and power outages; under-floor radiant heating in units; captured rainwater and reclaimed graywater; regenerative gear elevators; and an ultra-efficient air conditioning system.
Comprised of a mix of studio, one-, and two-bedroom units, the apartments will include floor-to-ceiling glass walls that open to private balconies, quiet acoustics, and smart-home features, such as app-controlled lighting, locks, thermostats, and blinds.
Sustainable Living Innovations will pursue Petal Certification, including zero energy, under the Living Building Challenge standard for 303 Battery.
“303 Battery shows that even high-rise apartment buildings can seek the world’s most rigorous standard for net-zero energy,” said Margaret Montgomery, board member of the International Living Future Institute and sustainable design firm NBBJ. “By emphasizing energy efficiency, avoiding fossil fuels, and relying on solar power, the project will create a path for others to follow.”
