I’m going to change pace here and just give a quick run-down of the green highlights: energystar roof, solar water heating, cellulose insulation, recycled-content cabinets and counters, dual-flush toilets, and high-efficiency furnaces. No-brainers such as low-VOC paint and low-flow faucets are sprinkled in as well. With the exception of the solar water heating and cellulose insulation, which may require specialty subcontractors, most of these are product substitutions that can be completed with a developer’s typical preferred project team. The key is giving folks long enough to identify, order, and purchase the right products.

I would like to see a little more emphasis on the energy basics on this type of project. Specifically, eliminating thermal bridges (aka thermal bypass) with some type of continuous insulation between studs and exterior wall, and a comprehensive air-sealing approach. Both of these are important contributors to Energy Star certification. Although we’ve covered several small residential projects that aren’t seeking Energy Star, I can’t emphasize the value of this certification enough, especially because of the learning that can occur between a less experienced project team and their home energy rater.

2622 W. Evergreen is scheduled for Spring 2007 delivery. If you’re interested in learning more about this project, feel free to contact RpV Development at  312-421-2828 .