Location
3121 N. Clifton, Chicago, IL 60657 Map

Owner
Private Residence

Architect
Depree Bickford Associates

3121 N. Clifton

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.

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.