I’m sure you’ve all heard, at least vaguely, that Mixson is going to be a “green” neighborhood.  I’m equally sure that many of you are wondering what exactly that means; so many things nowadays claim to be green (did any of you see that “green” edition of Vogue magazine last May?) that it seems that green is the new organic–and organic, sadly, does not mean what it used to.  So for those of you who truly want to make your lifestyle a bit lighter on the planet, here are the things that make Mixson, in my opinion, a green neighborhood.

1. Every home will be LEED for Homes certified.  For more info on LEED certification, please check our FAQ page, or go to http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=147. 

2.  The neighborhood is located less than a mile from the Amtrak station and major bus lines, which means that residents will be able to easily walk or bike to public transportation, decreasing their personal automobile dependency.  In addition, the neighborhood itself will be pedestrian-oriented, with commercial and office space in addition to residential homes.  So who knows, for many things  you might not even have to leave the neighborhood!

3.  Mixson is leaving as many as possible of the site’s magnificent oak trees untouched.  As a matter of fact, you can see one of the largest on Mixson’s website, at http://www.insidemixson.com/Design/Trees.  To see more, take a look at the Mixson construction pictures.  If you’re like me, you might find yourself wondering what seems a little off about them.  It took me a minute to pinpoint it, but I can’t remember the last time I saw a mature tree on a construction site.  I think both the people and animal residents of the area will be happier with things this way. 

4.  The Mixson homes are built of AAC, or autoclaved aerated concrete.  It’s a far more environmentally friendly building material than nearly everything else.  Its manufacture creates only water as a waste product, it’s highly energy-efficient, and it’s fire,  hurricane, and termite-resistant. 

5.  All appliances will be Energy Star certified, a government rating system that classifies items as energy efficient. 

6.  Homes start at 560 square feet, and are focused on clever and artful use of space, rather than on a large quantity of space.  So you have the opportunity to use only as much space and energy as you truly feel you need.

Finally, I think the real reason Mixson will become an incredible green neighborhood is its residents.  Judging from the people who have already bought homes there, I think it will attract mindful, environmental thinkers who sincerely want to start reversing the alarming civilizational trend towards bigger toys, bigger homes, and disposable everything; the trend that puts convenience as its top priority, and consequences to the planet and fellow living things at its last.  This community is an exciting creation, friends, and I can’t wait to meet more of the people who’ve decided to put down their roots there.

Filed under: Charleston SC Green Living, Mixson on February 4th, 2008