"Its most important function is to reduce the 'heat island effect,'" he says. Ambient summer city temperatures rise around most buildings because their dark roofs absorb solar heat, which is radiated back into the atmosphere. But the plant-life that covers the MacAllen's roof keeps the building - as well the surrounding neighborhood - cooler. It also helps save on fossil fuels that would be used to power air conditioning.
Other green features: The building uses highly efficient insulating systems that cut power use and features energy-saving appliances and extensive venting and filtering systems.
One unusual amenity is a shared automobile: a Toyota Camry hybrid that condo owners may reserve for three-hour blocks of time during the week and two hours on weekends.
"We tell people, 'You live on a subway stop, and you have a community car. You may not need a second vehicle,'" says Pappas.
The building also has priority parking spaces for hybrid cars. Builders also installed special electric hookups anticipating a day when plug-in cars hit the market.
Prices: There are a total of 150 apartments ranging from 800-square-foot one-bedrooms to 2,900-square-foot four-bedrooms. They cost between $510,000 and $2.9 million.
For further information: The Macallen Building
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