The envelope combines advanced framing techniques and spray foam insulation to achieve an R-35 wall. The passive solar approach is enhanced with an unusual air floor plenum that is a substitute for hydronic radiant heat. This brings the comfort and thermal mass benefits of a radiant system to an all-air system. Because modern Chicago homeowners expect air conditioning, typically radiant heat can’t replace a central air system and is an added cost - this system seeks to find a middle ground by eliminating the water heater and controls associated with a hydronic system. There are certainly trade-offs with this approach, though, such as losing the ability to easily control individual zones as with a hydronic system.

High-efficiency and renewable energy systems include a ground-source heat pump serving the air floor system, solar water heating, a 4.8 kW solar electric system, and fluorescent lighting throughout - this design is approaching zero net energy. Manually-operated indoor insulating window shutters round out the passive solar approach and accept that reaching very low energy use generally requires regular action on the part of a homeowner - one reason homeowner user guides are so important.

Other indoor features include the typical low-VOC finishes and low-flow plumbing fixtures, including dual-flush toilets. Outdoor features include rain barrels, a rain garden, Energy Star roofing, and an organic garden. Other project team members include MEP engineer dbHMS, general contractor Brown & Momem, home energy rater Informed Energy Decisions, and specialty subcontractors Habi-Tek (photovoltaics), Solar Service (solar hot water), Indiana Geothermal (ground-source heat pump loop), Innovative Insulation Solutions (spray foam insulation), and mechanical contractor Diaz Heating & Cooling.