CASE STUDY: NOVO Avian Pointe – A Next-Generation Sustainable Multifamily Community Built by RLH Construction

276 Units | Apopka, Florida | Completed 2024

Project Overview

RLH Construction proudly served as the general contractor for NOVO Avian Pointe, a 276-unit, three-story multifamily community designed with a dual focus on sustainability, ecological harmony, and resident wellness. Completed in 2024 in Apopka, Florida, this six-building development has become a model for next-generation multifamily design and has been recognized with the 2025 CoStar Impact Award for Multifamily Development of the Year in Orlando.

Developed by Taurus Investment Holdings in partnership with TPG Real Estate Partners, NOVO Avian Pointe demonstrates how smart engineering, green technology, and community-first amenities can elevate the modern residential experience.

SEO Keywords: multifamily construction Florida, sustainable apartment construction, geothermal multifamily development, RLH Construction projects

The Challenge

The development team envisioned a multifamily community that would:

• Reduce long-term energy consumption
• Minimize environmental impact
• Promote healthier lifestyles for residents
• Incorporate advanced green technology
• Provide long-term operational savings
• Overcome complex geotechnical site conditions

The site presented soft soil challenges, requiring ground stabilization before vertical construction. RLH Construction deployed a four-layer geoliner terra grid RX 1200 soil improvement system to ensure structural stability and long-term performance.

RLH Construction’s Solution

RLH Construction managed the full ground-up build, collaborating with engineers, EcoSmart Solution, and project partners to integrate advanced systems while maintaining schedule and quality.

Key construction solutions included:

1. Geothermal Heating & Cooling System

NOVO Avian Pointe features a state-of-the-art geothermal system designed by EcoSmart Solution. This system leverages the Earth’s natural temperature to reduce energy loads, providing:

• Lower heating and cooling costs
• Reduced carbon footprint
• Increased system lifespan
• Greater comfort for residents

This sustainable system sets NOVO Avian Pointe apart from traditional multifamily projects in Florida.

2. Sustainable Building Systems

RLH integrated multiple green features aligned with Taurus Investment Holdings’ future-focused investment strategy:

• Energy management system across the community
• Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations
• LED lighting throughout
• Eco-friendly materials and construction practices
• Focus on long-term operational efficiency

These strategies contribute to the project’s success as a durable, “future-proofed” asset.

3. Community-Focused Wellness Amenities

To build a sense of connection and healthy living, RLH constructed a blend of outdoor and indoor amenities, including:

• Organic relaxation garden
• Pool and sundeck
• Walking trail
• Bicycle-sharing program
• Clubhouse and resident lounge
• Garage facilities

These offerings support resident engagement and enhance overall quality of life.

4. Overcoming Geotechnical Challenges

The soft soil conditions required significant stabilization before foundation work could begin.

RLH Construction implemented:

• Four layers of geoliner terra grid RX 1200
• Engineered soil reinforcement
• Compaction and grading strategies tailored to site-specific conditions

This ensured stable foundations capable of supporting the full 276-unit community.

Project Results

NOVO Avian Pointe stands as a high-performing multifamily community with measurable environmental and operational benefits:

Environmental & Energy Results

• Reduced energy consumption through geothermal technology
• Lower long-term emissions
• Reduced dependency on traditional HVAC systems
• Support for electric vehicle adoption

Resident Experience Results

• Comfortable, quiet, and healthy living environments
• Amenities that promote wellness and community interaction
• Modern apartment layouts and technology integration

Investor & Developer Results

• Strong long-term asset durability
• “Future-proof” building systems attractive to investors
• Reduced operating costs
• Market differentiation in a competitive multifamily landscape

Industry Recognition

NOVO Avian Pointe earned the 2025 CoStar Impact Award for Orlando’s Multifamily Development of the Year.

Industry judges praised the development for its:

• Innovative geothermal system
• Use of on-site renewable energy
• Commitment to sustainability
• Alignment with emerging investor preferences

“NOVO Avian Pointe stands out for its unique advantage of incorporating advanced green technology.”
— Janet Galvin, Co-Founder, Archon Commercial Advisors

“I find it compelling that NOVO Avian Pointe is reducing its environmental impact by harnessing on-site renewable energy sources.”
— Jeré Matheny, VP of Brokerage, First Capital Property Group

Developer Perspective

Taurus CEO Peter Merrigan emphasized the long-term strategy behind NOVO’s sustainable design:

“As the real estate market continues to evolve, we believe future-proofing our investments is paramount.”

By collaborating with RLH Construction, EcoSmart Solution, and TPG Real Estate Partners, Taurus delivered a community that exemplifies forward-thinking design and long-lasting value.

Conclusion

NOVO Avian Pointe is a showcase of RLH Construction’s expertise in sustainable multifamily development, complex sitework, and innovative building systems. The project reflects RLH’s commitment to delivering resilient, energy-efficient communities that meet the needs of today’s residents while supporting a greener future.

Through technical excellence, collaborative partnerships, and strategic problem-solving, RLH Construction helped bring a best-in-class multifamily community to Central Florida.