Jul

Plantation IV

Plantation IV is located at 201 Casey Drive in Richmond Hill, Georgia. This project is a complete renovation of all units and includes the addition of an expanded community center and manager’s office.

The developer for the project was Prestwick Development. The general contractor was Prestwick Construction. Architectural services were provided by Studio 8 Design Architects

Work began on the project in November 2012, and the projected completion was August, 2013. This project experienced a number of challenges including remediation for water and termite damage in many of the buildings.

Both one and two bedroom units experienced significant floor plan changes. This provided opportunity to add additional closet space and more functionality in the overall living space. For the one bedroom units, the bath was moved from access only through the bedroom to a central location easily accessible to guests as well as residents.

When this project was initially inspected, tests and inspections indicated inadequate insulation in both the walls and the attic areas. Most heat pump systems were limping along at best. Many apartments were well worn.

After the renovation, the apartments were well insulated with functioning and efficient windows. They also had new appliances including ENERGY STAR® refrigerators and dishwashers (a new addition to the apartments). High efficiency heat pumps were also installed. Final test results indicated that, on average, tenants should see a 40-50% improvement in their utility costs.

Plantation IV scored 139 points in the EarthCraft Multifamily Renovation Program. As is typical with a complete renovation project like this one, the primary emphasis was placed on the "Energy Efficient Building" category. Also, a strong emphasis was also placed on ventilation and indoor water conservation.

While working this project, I had direct experience with why I do what I do. On my very first visit to Plantation IV, I had to test the units in their current condition. While there, I met a tenant who was struggling to pay her monthly Georgia Power bills that were averaging nearly $300 per month in a small, 850 square foot apartment. She was even keeping her air conditioning set over 80 degrees during the summer to try to lower her bills. (A photo of her heat pump’s air handler is in the photo gallery.) In August of 2013, I had the opportunity to meet with her again in her newly renovated apartment. She had been living there since early June and had only received 2 Georgia Power bills. Her WORST power bill to date was WELL BELOW $100! Better yet, she was able to keep her apartment at a very comfortable 75 degrees during the heat and humidity of a Georgia Coastal Region July!

Plantation IV is a 48 unit general family affordable housing community that was originally constructed in 1990. This community is located within walking distance from Richmond Hill High School. This is the first significant improvement project since the apartments were originally constructed.

Below is a collection of photos of the project before, during, and after the renovation.

Synergy’s only role at Plantation IV was to provide EarthCraft Technical advisory, inspection, and testing services. We had no other role in this project.

Leasing Information

For leasing or other information about Plantation IV Apartments, please call 912-445-5616.

Feel free to leave comments or questions about Plantation IV below.

Plantation IV Photo Gallery

For a larger photo and a brief description, please click or tap a photo.

Plantation IV 01
This EarthCraft Certificate shows that Plantation IV earned 139 points in the Multifamily Renovation Program (100 points was the minimum required).
Plantation IV 02
This is a typical building exterior prior to renovation.
Plantation IV 03
This is a building exterior prior to renovation.
Plantation IV 04
Prior to renovation, this is a typical handicap accessible kitchen's condition and appearance.
Plantation IV 05
This is a bath in a handicap accessible apartment prior to renovation.
Plantation IV 06
This is a collage of photos from mechanical closets showing the poor conditions of the water heaters and air handlers before renovation.
Plantation IV 07
This is the exterior of one of the buildings during restoration.
Plantation IV 08
This is the exterior of one of the buildings during the restoration.
Plantation IV 09
Caulking to close up air leaks helps maximize both comfort and efficiency.
Plantation IV 10
This is a wall that has been air sealed and made ready for insulation. This detail is important for the overall energy efficiency puzzle.
Plantation IV 11
This is the insulation installed and ready for sheetrock to cover it.
Plantation IV 12
This is one of the interior units after insulation was installed.
Plantation IV 13
This is an exterior of one of the buildings after renovation.
Plantation IV 14
This is the exterior of one of the buildings after renovation.
Plantation IV 15
This is a typical kitchen at Plantation IV after the renovation. It now a modern 21st Century kitchen.
Plantation IV 16
This is a typical bath at Plantation IV after the renovation.

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