This is the first home built from insulated concrete forms (aka ICFs) that we’ve covered - there is a lot of competition in Chicago between various integral-insulation wall systems including ICFs, SIPs (used here), ELFI, and even insulated precast concrete and it will likely be many years until a preferred method shakes out (if ever!). Today, more standard wall construction (e.g. concrete block with separate insulation) remains the norm even on most green projects.

Other energy-efficiency features include radiant heating throughout, served by both solar water heaters and what might be the Porsche of boilers. Hot water is provided by a separate heat exchanger on the boiler (and the solar water heaters) rather than a separate water heater. There’s also a 4 kW solar electric system and a super high-efficiency (SEE 19.5) air conditioner, and LED or compact fluorescent lighting throughout.

There are a few non-energy related features, such as a rain garden in the parkway and gangway, an Energy Star rated rubber roof (which slightly affects energy use but mostly reduced the urban heat island), and HEPA filtration on the air conditioner. (Aside: adults, please don’t ride your bikes on the sidewalk like the gentleman in the rendering. It’s illegal and dangerous.)