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Location
3121 N. Clifton Map
Owner
Private Residence
Architect
Depree Bickford Associates
3121 N. Clifton is a renovation of an existing three-flat into a single family home with a basement rental unit. The project mixes a few high payback major green investments and many inexpensive, common-sense green approaches. Unlike some of the all-out, demonstration green homes we've seen in Chicago, where anything goes, this project has the budget to invest in a few things, but puts the dollars where they stretch the farthest.
Two major investments are the use of biofoam insulation and ground-source heat pumps. Biofoam is a soy-based type of spray foam insulation, which claims dual green credentials of excellent energy performance and being agriculturally based. Spray foam insulation is highly energy efficient because in addition to providing a high R-value, it expands to seal any small holes in the exterior wall, providing a very airtight envelope. Unfortunately, it is also typically the most expensive form of insulation. However, some of this expense might be offset by the elimination of labor (additional caulking, etc.) required to achieve a similarly tight envelope with other types of insulation.
Ever-popular ground-source heat pumps are also used here. Although this technology feels fairly exotic to many homeowners installing it, I feel it is becoming nearly mainstream (at least for green homes) in Chicago. Perhaps as many as half of custom, market-rate green homes are using it. As this market expands, there has also been a lot of jostling among contractors and highly variable pricing. If you're considering this technology, be sure to get multiple bids. And be reassured - there are no special permit requirements or code restrictions!
Indoor air quality is maintained with a combination of technology-based solutions such as a heat recovery ventilator and low-tech approaches such as minimal use of carpeting and low-VOC paints. The project does include a green roof - one pricey feature with lower economic payback to the owner. Examples of other, less expensive green features include rainwater cisterns, rain gardens, EnergyStar appliances, and natural fiber carpet (when used).
Construction on the Clifton Residence is currently underway. Other project team members include contractor Custom Built Construction and structural engineer MLT Consulting Engineers.
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