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Designed by world-famous architectural firm Dattner and Grimshaw, Via Verde is expected to serve as a model for affordable, sustainable housing in New York City. “The innovative design represents the future of high-quality, affordable and sustainable housing,” Via Verde LLC says.

According to Via Verde LLC, the design is inspired by the integration of nature and city. The project – which has Lettire Construction Corp. as a contractor – will feature a garden and a series of green roofs that serve as the organizing architectural element and identity for the South Bronx community, where it is located.

The façade features aluminum, cement and wood panels with panoramic windows, sunshades and courtyard balconies, according to Via Verde LLC. The building itself is designed to step up from three-story town houses to a 20-story tower, exposing a series of green roofs and south-facing solar panels.

The development has been designed to achieve LEED Gold certification. The structure is estimated to be more than 30 percent more energy efficient than a standard building, according to Via Verde LLC. More than 20 percent of the materials used on Via Verde were recycled, and more than 20 percent of the materials are locally sourced, as well. Via Verde LLC also boasts that more than 80 percent of construction and demolition waste was recycled.

The rooftop gardens will dissipate heat and absorb rainwater runoff while providing opportunities for gardening, fruit and vegetable cultivation, relaxation and social gathering, Verde Via LLC says. The stormwater reclamation system recycles collected water for irrigation, and motion sensors in stairways and corridors help conserve energy.

Building-integrated photovoltaic panels produce electricity from the sun, and green cleaning materials are used throughout the structure for upkeep and maintenance.

The units themselves offer a variety of green features, as well. Each one comes outfitted with EnergyStar appliances, energy-efficient lighting, high-efficiency windows, low off-gassing materials, sealed insulation and water-conserving fixtures.

Lifestyle Amenities

The Via Verde development focuses on more than just sustainable construction features. The project also will feature amenities to attract potential residents with a variety of interests. Via Verde’s common areas will include an attended library, an amphitheater, a landscaped courtyard and green roofs.

Within the co-ops themselves, each unit will feature stainless steel appliances, a dishwasher, an in-unit washer and dryer, ceiling fans, hardwood floors, luxury kitchens, porcelain-tile bathrooms and panoramic views. 

Well-earned Reputation

According to Lettire Construction Corp., the company and its development arm, Urban Builders Collaborative, have built a reputation as the premier builder of quality, sustainable, affordable and special-needs multifamily housing and mixed-use properties in the New York Tri-State area.

“Lettire is known for providing top-quality finishes and work, traditionally found in market-rate units, to all of [its] developments,” the company says. “[It] attributes this reputation to [its] start in the luxury interior and new construction arena 30 yeas ago, and make it a priority to bring this level of quality, experience and service to every project.

“The company prides itself on its strong relationships with not-for-profit and private developers, government agencies and neighborhood leaders and coalitions to further its mission to dramatically increase the supply of quality affordable and special-needs housing in the region,” Lettire Construction adds.

Lettire Construction doesn’t just practice a commitment to affordable housing in business only. The company also helps those in need. In 2009, the company sponsored the East Harlem “El Barrio” Cares Coalition’s second annual pre-Thanksgiving Dinner, as reported by Harlem World magazine. The magazine reported that in addition to a monetary donation, Lettire Construction employees donated their time for setup, serving and clean-up at the event. 

Key Partnerships

Lettire Construction’s vendors and subcontractors play an important role in its success. The company has numerous essential partners, including B&V Contracting & Poured Flooring and Boccella Precast.