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Presented by:
Molly Cutler, Cutler Development
Scott Cutler, Cutler Development
Course Description
According to the United Nations, 87% of cities worldwide lack adequate affordable housing, and buildings account for approximately 40% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Mass timber partnered with a low carbon design model can be used to simultaneously respond to the dual affordable housing for seniors and climate change crisis. With affordability as the priority, we will study a small scale project (currently in early design phases) that will serve as an option for seniors in central Iowa to move to. Location places this project adjacent to local amenities such as a senior day center, a recreational facility, a grocery store and other conveniences that help support a budget-minded aging resident. Designed as an affordable housing model, it is very close to bus lines and other transit options. The mass timber design is not only a beautiful aesthetic for the interiors, but is a key part of meeting sustainability goals in construction. The example project is called the Goldfinch Lofts and is a replicable example of how LIHTC-funded (Low-Income Housing Tax Credit) affordable housing projects can also be carbon neutral.
Learning Objectives
- Examine mass timber and review the pros and cons of using it in affordable housing for seniors
- Learn how to effectively value engineer the design of mass timber in early stages of design
- Understand the value proposition of mass timber specific to the proforma
- Learn how designing for low-cost sustainable housing can be a solution for senior housing development and provide an environmentally friendly home for healthy aging
