IN PROGRESS:
SUSTAINABLE NEW CONSTRUCTION SINGLE-FAMILY
CHICAGO, IL

The clients for this new single-family home directed that FDA find a balance of home size and future adaptability for themselves or future owners. As part of planning for the future, it was important to incorporate sound modern building technology and sustainable construction practice. Primary energy efficiency strategies include an advanced ground-source HVAC system and a highly insulated building envelope. The ground-source heat pumps provide cooling in the summer through efficient forced-air equipment and heat during the winter via a ground-source boiler and radiant floor installed throughout the house. The HVAC system is sized based on calculations which account for continuous rigid insulation over the exterior 2x6 stud walls (which provide a thermal break), foundation walls, and below the basement floor slab and spray foam insulation in excess of code minimums throughout the house. The design of the house also includes on-site electricity generation from a photovoltaic array.

This project is enrolled in the Chicago Green Homes program and has obtained a City of Chicago Green Permit. Many of the features are in the Energy Efficiency category as described above, but many Materials and Health and Safety features contribute as well. Engineered wood products form much of the structure and the exterior finishes consist of local brick, stucco, low maintenance fiber-cement and 30 year shingles. A Heating Recovery Ventilator ("HRV") provides energy-efficient continuous exhaust and fresh air intake - low VOC products and finishes will be used throughout.

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