United Properties announced that The Ellie, its recently completed residential development in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, has received the 2024 Sustainable Eden Prairie Award in recognition of its exemplary water conservation efforts.
This annual award recognizes significant and innovative investments that contribute to the overall vitality and sustainability of the community.
Named in honor of Elizabeth Fries Ellet, the woman credited with naming Eden Prairie, The Ellie is a four-story, 239-unit rental property on 6.4 acres of land located at 8075 Eden Prairie Rd.
The Sustainable Eden Prairie Award recognizes the property’s water conservation efforts, which include:
- WaterSense showerheads in all units, reducing water usage without compromising performance.
- A central courtyard that maximizes green space with bioswales and native plantings to filter stormwater, while permeable soil mixes aid stormwater absorption and treatment.
- Rainwater collection systems for stormwater reuse in resident garden plots, fostering sustainable water practices within the community.
- Green roof installation over the building’s entry, along with six “green pocket” roof sections on the fourth floor. These green roofs contribute to stormwater management by reducing runoff while also providing energy savings and improving air quality.
- A reduced-size, on-site pool that minimizes water consumption.
The Ellie’s comprehensive sustainability efforts span beyond water conservation, addressing energy efficiency, waste reduction and ecological landscaping.
Energy efficiency
Through Xcel Energy’s Energy Design Assistance (EDA) program, The Ellie implemented computer energy modeling to optimize energy use and cost savings. The building achieved a 14% annual electric consumption reduction, 18% demand savings and 33% less natural gas usage. Additional features include ENERGY STAR-rated appliances, programmable thermostats, high-efficiency LED lighting and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, earning The Ellie a top ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager score of 100 out of 100.
Landscape preservation
The Ellie preserved seven heritage trees on-site, seamlessly integrating them into the design to provide shade and enhance the area’s natural beauty. Native plants were chosen for landscaping, reducing water use and supporting local biodiversity by attracting pollinators. These features enrich the outdoor space and reflect The Ellie’s commitment to sustainable, low-impact design.
Waste management
Sustainable practices also guided The Ellie’s waste management. Four single-family homes originally on-site were relocated for reuse, reducing construction waste. The property achieves a 54.31% operational waste diversion rate, with more than half of all on-site waste recycled.
The Sustainable Eden Prairie Awards, chosen by the city’s Sustainability Commission, recognize projects that demonstrate commitment to environmental stewardship. To learn more about The Ellie, go to theelliemn.com.
