Plaza Pointe in Arcata, CA, is a mixed-use elderly housing and commercial project developed by The Danco Group, achieving 82% net-zero energy through various green building innovations. The design features high insulation standards, Energy Star appliances, and a photovoltaic system that generates a significant portion of energy on-site. The project adheres to national green building standards and emphasizes affordable, durable housing while managing stormwater effectively.

1. Plaza Pointe
Arcata, CA
Mixed Use
Elderly Housing/
Commercial
82% Net Zero
Developer:
The Danco Group
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3. Architect’s earliest sketches illustrate integrated design
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4. Keep it simple – start with the basics
– 2x6 walls with industry standard (R21) insulation
– High (R49) attic insulation
– Attached/shared walls
– Energy Star appliances
– Large south-facing windows
– 9 foot ceilings allow for taller windows – passive
heating
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5. • Systems:
– Photovoltaic system
• Full account of affordability
– Each apartment has…
• Heat pump water heater
• Space heater mini-split heat pump
– Super efficient, all electric
• Wall-mounted energy monitor
– No natural gas
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6. – D.O.E.’s Builder’s Challenge
– Enterprise “Green Communities”
– USGBC LEED for Homes, Platinum level
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7. – D.O.E.’s ENERGY STAR New Homes
– 90% On-Site Energy Generation
• 79.3 kW DC grid-intertied photovoltaic array
fully installed
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8. – NAHB National Green Building Standards
(NGBS) Program
– PG&E California Multi-Family New Homes
(CMFNH)
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9. Stormwater
Managed by parking
design
Reduction of paved
surfaces
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10. PV solar arrays
on roof
White, reflective
roofing
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11. Generates 82% of its required energy on-site.
Attractive, Affordable Rural Housing
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12. Contacts:
Bill Downs, Chief Architect, USDA Rural Housing
William.Downs@wdc.usda.gov (202) 720-1499
Meghan Walsh, AIA, LEED AP, Architect, USDA Rural Housing
Meghan.Walsh@wdc.usda.gov (202) 205-9590
Judy Moran, LEED AP, Architect, CA USDA Rural Housing
judy.moran@ca.usda.gov (530) 792-5826
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