"America's Greenest" Residential High-Rise Unveiled in New York

The tower includes solar panels, wind power, and an innovative water treatment system.

Mairi Beautyman -- Interior Design, 12/17/2008

Photo courtesy of Stedila Design

New York's skyline was recently graced by a new green residential tower, billed as "America’s Greenest High-Rise Condominium."

Expected to land LEED Platinum certification from the U.S. Green Building Council, the 35-story Visionaire is designed by architect Rafael Pelli of Pelli Clark Pelli Architects and developed by the Albanese Organization, in partnership with Starwood Capital. Interiors of the 251 studio-to-three bedroom residences are designed by interior designer Tim Button of Stedila Design. Visionaire is located in Battery Park City.

Pelli's design focuses on green innovation. The tower will feature solar panels, wind power, a high-efficiency air filtration system, and programmable thermostats and kitchen exhaust systems. Combined, the green features are expected to slash energy consumption by 35 percent, compared to similar code-compliant buildings. A savvy water treatment system will recycle water throughout the building, using it for an HVAC system cooling tower, and rainwater will be collected to irrigate two rooftop gardens.


Photo courtesy of Stedila Design

Interiors boast oak wood flooring harvested according to Forest Stewardship Council standards, renewable bamboo cabinets, custom paneled Sub-Zero refrigerators, and stainless-steel Wolf dual convection ovens, among other features. Only paints, adhesives, and sealants considered eco-friendly were used.

"Our goal as a developer is to deliver an exceptional living experience. This includes providing the latest in sustainable technology, intuitive design, and high-end finishes and amenities while educating our residents on how to live a more environmentally responsible lifestyle," says Russell Albanese, president of the Albanese Organization.