July 17th, 2009

Aquatera Named “Water Smart Project” for 2009 by San Diego County Water Authority

Award Honors Apartment Community in the New Construction Category

SAN DIEGO – At a time when communities throughout California are implementing water cutbacks, the brand new Aquatera apartment community in the Mission Valley area of San Diego is proving that a vibrant and inviting landscape can still be achieved while reducing outdoor water usage by 50 percent.

Recognized by the San Diego County Water Authority as the county’s “Outstanding Water Smart Project” for 2009 new construction, Aquatera is a model for responsible development.

“H.G. Fenton Company has demonstrated real leadership by becoming the first builder in Southern California to complete a multi-family project that meets the California Friendly Model Homes’ program’s demanding water efficiency specifications,” said Water Authority General Manager Maureen Stapleton. “Aquatera incorporates a host of WaterSmart solutions. Its five acres of landscaping substantially conforms to new water-efficient landscape standards the state is expected to release later this year, and its 254 apartment homes feature highly efficient appliances and plumbing fixtures.”

Mike Neal, president and CEO of H.G. Fenton Company, said “Our goal with Aquatera was to create a true ‘lifestyle’ experience for our residents both aesthetically and functionally, while implementing practices that would conserve valuable resources. This included a dedicated focus on how to incorporate the project’s water-oriented theme while finding ways to minimize usage.”

The ingenuity and commitment of H.G. Fenton Company has resulted in a colorful and thriving setting that includes numerous flowing water elements and all of the amenities residents could want, right at home. That this has been accomplished while still achieving an approximate 50 percent reduction in water usage based on projects of comparable size is helping to set a new standard for this type of development.

Aquatera was aptly named to reflect the history and character of its 19-acre site, located in Mission Valley at 5777 Mission Center Rd. “Aqua” reflects the community’s water theme, the idea for which was inspired by H.G. Fenton Company’s desire to tap into the site’s natural underwater aquifers as just one part of its water management efforts. “Tera,” (a unique spelling for “terra,” meaning earth), evolved from the site’s former use as a quarry.

“The name ‘Aquatera’ captures perfectly our desire to create a contemporary yet soothing lifestyle experience while making responsible use of the land and existing resources,” said Neal.

A cascading waterfall down a terraced hillside serves as a stunning backdrop for the community, the focal point of which is a spectacular, 10,000-square-foot clubhouse overlooking an expansive salt water pool and deck area.  Colorful planters and lawn areas along with comfortable seating areas enhance the ambience.

All common-area water features are served by a well that is fed by the site’s underground aquifers. Synthetic turf has been used for all lawn areas and will retain its vibrant green appearance with no watering required. Planters and other landscaped areas feature smart irrigation complete with on-site weather stations to maximize water efficiency. Native California or Mediterranean plants that require low supplemental watering are featured throughout, and the hillside behind the project has been replanted with indigenous plant material that will require no irrigation whatsoever once it is established.

Energy savings was also a key focus of the company’s goal to develop responsibly. A 216 kilowatt Photovoltaic solar energy system supplies 90 percent of the electricity for all common areas and amenities.  The use of solar shades in the club room along with dual glazed Low-E vinyl windows in all buildings reduce heat gain and loss, lowering utility bills.  Residents who drive electric vehicles enjoy the convenience of an electric vehicle charging station right on site.

H.G. Fenton Company’s efforts to conserve water and energy extend to the inside of the well-appointed apartment homes, with low-flow toilets and front-loading washers and dryers that use minimal water and energy.

H.G. Fenton Company’s commitment to its customers’ experience is evident in the plethora of amenities offered at Aquatera. Inside the stunning two-story clubhouse, residents can work out at the sports club or relax with friends in the club room that features a pool table, three flat screen TVs and Nintendo® Wii or Sony® Playstations. There is also a cyber café, beverage bar, professional kitchen and adjoining entertainment area, and relaxing deck areas.

The spectacular 25-meter Aquatera swimming pool is surrounded by a luxurious deck area that includes a separate elevated spa, cabanas, complimentary towel service, fire pit with conversation area, and barbecue islands. Towering palm trees, flowering planters and contemporary water features add to the resort-style atmosphere.

“Residents are drawn to Aquatera not only for the amazing lifestyle it offers, but because they also recognize the thoughtful planning that has taken place,” said Neal. “The water- and energy-saving features we have implemented enhance the livability of the community project and will translate into utility cost savings for our residents now and in the future.”