The building was designed and constructed with the goal of achieving LEED Gold. Reaching substantial completion on May 8, 2014, Kathy Crow Commons achieved LEED Gold 2014 under LEED NC Version 3 with 67 points. As one of the five (5) Residential Commons within the Residential Commons Complex, Kathy Crow Commons shares in:
- Dedication of 71% of the Complex to open space.
- Usage of native and adaptive species reduce irrigation water use by 50%.
- 100% of irrigation supplied from the Campus Central Plant graywater system.
- High efficiency plumbing fixtures and the use of Campus graywater to reduce potable water needs by 98%
- 90% of all regularly occupied spaces have access to view the outdoors.
- An Indoor Air Quality Plan before occupancy to ensure optimal indoor air quality.
- Usage of 24% recycled content and 49% locally/regionally manufactured construction materials.
- 30.8% overall energy cost savings.
- 24.19% energy cost savings for interior lighting by utilizing LED lighting and motion sensors.
The site of the Residential Commons Complex features:
- Multiple bus lines located within ¼ mile of the Complex to promote alternative transportation.
- Full cut-off exterior light fixtures to reduce light pollution and preserve dark night sky.
- Diversion of 75% (6,764 tons) of all construction waste from the landfill.
- Use of low VOC and formaldehyde–free products to ensure quality indoor air quality for construction workers future occupants.
- A green cleaning plan to maintain good indoor air quality after occupancy
- Dedicated recycling areas for paper, plastic, aluminum, glass, and cardboard.
- Entrances with permanent walk off mats to reduce outdoor contaminants.
- Designation of smoking areas at least 25’ from entrances.
- Enhanced commissioning to confirm operation for maximum efficiency and energy use reduction.
- 35% of the predicted electricity use offset with Renewable Energy Credits.
- Individual lighting and thermal comfort for occupant control.