1314 N. Moorman

Location
1314 N. Moorman, Chicago Map

Owner
House Plant, Inc.

Architect
Norsman Architects

1314 N. Moorman is a 2,600 sf (3,600 sf with basement) speculative single family home with many basic energy efficiency features and a bit of 'green bling'. Although it is certainly in the class of high-end spec homes, with 4 bedrooms and 3 1/2 baths it isn't nearly as large as some of the custom homes we see. This is another example of an owner new to development using green as a way to differentiate their product - I love that their company name works as a triple entendre.

The home uses frame construction with mostly FSC-certified wood materials and soy-based spray foam insulation. High-efficiency mechanicals and triple-pane windows round out the energy efficiency approach - with these features and good detailing, the project could like qualify for an Energy Star certification, but currently it isn't seeking such. There's also a fair amount of water management, with all of the easy-to include features adding up to a fairly comprehensive approach: low-flow fixtures, rainwater cisterns, and a rain garden. Green bling comes in the form of a habitable green roof.

The project is seeking Chicago Green Homes certification. Other project team members include Stedl Construction and Louis Shell Structures.

Comments

[PC]

Great pun! So far, I read "house plant" as:
1. A living, breathing, green, memorable object in the home.
2. The act of placing (planting) a house.
3. A factory (plant) making houses. (Perhaps they have a future in modular.)

That particular corner of Wicker Park has tiny, irregular lots owing to a pre-grid subdivision plat (I noticed it on an 1870 map on display at the Historical Society), which probably explains the smaller size.

[Erik Olsen]

Exactly on all counts. And thanks for the historical tip - I always wondered how that area got so screwy.