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cover story of raw design. "The use of geothermal and solar thermal heat exchange systems means very little energy will be needed to heat and cool the building. In addition to the extensive landscaping and green roof areas, car parking will be limited to underground and shaded areas to reduce the urban heat island effect," says Rom Colthoff. "The initial response to Ironstone's green initiatives has been fantastic," explains Renee Bourgon of Davies Smith Developments, "This is one of the first condos west of Toronto to introduce geothermal energy, as well as other green features such as bicycle parking, low flow faucets and green roof terraces to name few. People seem genuinely impressed that they'll reduce do something positive for the environment while purchasing a new condo." Eco-investing is good investing Compared to a traditional HVAC system a geothermal system will typically save almost 100% of natural gas and 15% of electricity costs. At Ironstone, the system is augmented by solar energy, which further reduces electricity needs. Several experts are valuing green buildings at a premium over traditional buildings. Green buildings can mean significant economic benefits. According to the McGraw-Hill 2006 SmartMarket Report, they deliver 3.5% higher occupancy rates, 3% higher rent rates, and an average increase of 7.5% in building values; they also improve return on investment by 6.6%, on average. Urban Design a priority at Ironstone The aesthetic of the Ironstone interior 23 · OAKVILLE BEAVER Friday, September 4, 2009 SIOBHAN EVANS editor Urban design plans in Burlington now include new green condo development Ironstone is among the first condominiums in the 905 area to prioritize sustainability and help purchasers save on energy costs Burlington will soon be home to one of the most modern, energy efficient condominiums on the market. Ironstone, by Davies Smith Developments, combines modern design and sustainability to create a dynamic urban sensibility for our new uptown core. This modern, 16-storey mixed use building features lifestyle elements that reflect the values of the new uptown neighbourhood ­ contemporary design, a fully loaded amenity space and a dynamic 15,000 square foot rooftop terrace. But word has also been spreading about its sustainable attributes. Since its opening, Ironstone Presentation Centre staff have been answering as many questions about the buildings leading edge geothermal technology as their floor plans. As one of the few condos in the GTA to operate using 100% geothermal heating and cooling, solar energy and green roof technology, Ironstone appears to be on to something with its future forward "green" design. By using geothermal energy, Ironstone is removing the equivalent of 312 cars from the road, and total energy use of the condo will be cut by a dramatic 60-70%. At a time when rising energy costs are a big concern, purchasers can be assured that little natural gas will be used for heating/cooling. "Just by moving in, purchasers reduce their carbon footprint and lower energy costs," says architect Roland Rom Colthoff space fuses urban and classic contemporary design. Inspired by its name, the showroom brings together richness and comfort to create a modern look and feel. The kitchen vignette is classic revitalized by a refreshing colour palette of grey floors, white backdrop and splashes of green for an energizing aesthetic. Built-ins, multipurpose furniture pieces, a fireplace and plasma wall installation, all come together to reflect a modern approach to design and space. Over the past decade, boutique developer Davies Smith Developments has won 34 awards for buildings that exude superior design and quality. As a talented and agile group of professionals they are committed to be at the cutting edge of design and technology. "Ironstone is a modern and sustainable take on condo living that brings urban sophistication to uptown Burlington," explains Ian Smith of Davies Smith Developments. "Ultimately, it comes down to a feeling," says Ian. "We set out to create a community that marries energy efficiency with all the amenities and where purchasers could come after a long day at the office and feel like this is where they want to be - home." The Ironstone showroom is open to the public, located at 1940 Ironstone Drive (the corner of Upper Middle Road and Appleby Line) in Burlington. For more information visit online at www.ironstonecondominiums.com The aesthetic of the Ironstone interior space fuses urban and classic contemporary design. Inspired by its name, the showroom brings together richness and comfort to create a modern look and feel. The kitchen vignette is classic revitalized by a refreshing colour palette of grey floors, white backdrop and splashes of green for an energizing aesthetic.