National CORE’s Legacy Square affordable housing community has been named a Silver Award winner for Best Green Community in the 2024 Best in American Living Awards (BALA) competition, which spotlights the creative design of homes and communities across North America.

The BALA contest is the building industry’s premier residential design awards program, sponsored by the National Association of Home Builders.

A diverse panel of industry professionals selected the Silver Award winners from over 600 entries. Silver Award winners received the most votes in their respective categories and are finalists for the BALA Gold Awards.

Legacy Square is one of three Silver Award winners in the category of Best Green Community. Opened in June 2023 in Santa Ana, it transformed underutilized church land into a stunning, 93-apartment community serving residents who earn less than 60 percent of the median area income. Thirty-three apartments serve residents who experienced homelessness or who were at risk of becoming homeless.

Legacy Square sets a new benchmark for green building in affordable housing.

Developed by National CORE on land owned by Santa Ana United Methodist Church, this all-electric, LEED Platinum-certified community shows how thoughtful design can have a lasting impact.

A central feature of Legacy Square is its commitment to environmental sustainability. The building’s 153kW rooftop solar panel system generates over 36% of its energy needs, reducing utility costs for residents while minimizing its carbon footprint. Energy-efficient HVAC systems, cool roofing materials and ultra-tight building envelopes further contribute to lower energy demands. Additionally, low-flow fixtures and drought-tolerant landscaping reduce water use by 36%, well below state standards.

Beyond energy savings, Legacy Square promotes healthier living. The open-air corridors and large windows flood each unit with natural light, while private patios and balconies provide outdoor spaces for residents to enjoy. The second-story courtyard features a community garden and children’s play area, fostering a sense of connection with nature and encouraging outdoor engagement.

The development also enhances its surrounding neighborhood. Located close to public transit – just a half mile from a Metrolink station and next to an OC Streetcar station – Legacy Square promotes sustainable transportation options. National CORE’s $10.4 million investment in transit and beautification projects, including bike lanes, street trees and a pocket park, boosts walkability and safety, further reducing the community’s reliance on cars.

BALA awards will be presented at the NABH gala on Feb. 26, 2025, at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas.