NEW HAVEN, Conn., March 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Becker+Becker, a Fairfield-based design and development firm, today announced that residential leasing has begun at 360 State Street, a new 32-story mixed-use tower located in the heart of downtown New Haven. The building has been garnering attention and winning praise as a model for sustainable, environmentally-friendly design. 360 State Street is the state's first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum residential project. This "green building" rating system, developed by the US Green Building Council (USGBC), sets standards for the environmentally sustainable design, construction and operation of buildings and neighborhoods. In a letter certifying 360 State Street's designation, S. Richard Fedrizzi, who heads the USGBC, noted that Becker+Becker's work on the project had earned it "a place among the finest developments incorporating the principles of smart growth, urbanism, and green design." On March 8th, Becker led state and federal officials through 360 State Street in a group headed by U.S. Senator Chris Dodd, who chose the project to promote his Livable Communities Act. The landmark bill will help communities cut traffic congestion, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and gasoline consumption, revitalize Main Streets and urban centers, and create more affordable housing. Accompanied by Deputy HUD Secretary Ron Sims and other officials, Sen. Dodd toured the building, and then spoke at the leasing office across the street. The 500 luxury apartments at 360 State are a mix of studio, one and two-bedrooms, and three-bedroom penthouses. All feature open floor plans, Energy Star® appliances, stone countertops, stainless steel appliances, ample closet space and a full-sized washer and dryer. Oversized windows maximize views over the city and Long Island Sound. The residence contains more than 36,000 square feet of community amenities, including 24/7 front desk and concierge services, resident lounge and game room with billiards, spacious fitness center including private yoga studio, business center with Apple® computers and meeting rooms, expansive rooftop garden and lawn, heated outdoor pool and sundeck, and Wi-Fi access in all common areas. Key green design features include: a half-acre, irrigated green roof; bike storage; electric car charging stations and Zipcar fleet car-sharing program; recovery of waste heat; high-efficiency lighting and occupancy sensors; on-site 400-kilowatt fuel cell to provide clean renewable power, the first of its kind in the country; elevators that recapture their own energy; low flow water fixtures; low-VOC paint; carpet made from recycled fibers; high-performance insulated windows; and a recycling room on each floor.
