Design on a Dime

You won't find green bling at Solara, just practical and cost-effective features that make this 56-unit ecofriendly apartment complex near San Diego affordable for low- to moderate-income families. "Green doesn't have to look different," says project manager Mary Jane Jagodzinski. "It can fit into any community."

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Breathe Deeply
Formaldehyde-free insulation keeps indoor air quality high.

Up on the Roof
Photovoltaic panels on roofs and carports generate all of Solara's energy, so residents have no power bills to pay.

Windows of Opportunity
Low-emissivity (low-e) windows reduce heat loss and gain and are positioned to allow maximum ventilation.

Healthy Living
Each family gets a shopping cart to take on walks to the farmers' market and other nearby conveniences.

Lush Life
Native plants make up almost half of the landscape. There's also an organic lemon grove and natural grasses instead of lawns.