Wrightwood Crossing adds “green” touch to Lincoln Park
By Shafaq Choudry
Project Website: http://www.wrightwoodcrossing.com
Location: 1307 W. Wrightwood Ave., Chicago, IL 60614
Developer: G.Corp Development
Developer Website: http://www.gcorpdevelopment.com
Architect: Andrew Wilson, [1016] Architecture, Inc
Architect Website: http://www.1016architecture.com
Status: Broke ground early September 2009 (under construction)
Completion Date: Spring/Summer 2010
Project Type: High Performance Residential Condominium
Project Size: 4 stories, 37,000 square feet
When [1016] Architecture seized the opportunity to design a four-story, 19-unit residence in Chicago’s bustling Lincoln Park neighborhood, architect/real estate entrepreneurs Andrew C. Wilson and Joshua T. Canale fell nothing short of their expertise. The firm’s focus on high-performance, residential and mixed-use design in urban areas led to an exciting new project that embodies environmentally friendly construction techniques and products. The team is seeking LEED-Platinum Certification for the project.
Wrightwood Crossing is aptly named after its location at 1307 W. Wrightwood between Southport Ave. and Racine Ave. The site sits equidistant to the Fullerton and Diversey stops on CTA red, blue, and brown lines, making it easily accessible in an active and dense environment. Diversey Harbor and Wrightwood Park are walking distance from the new residential condos, granting residents the advantage of nearby open space parks. Giacomo Caliendo, G.Corp Principal, confidently states that the new residential building is “destined to become a focal point in the Lincoln Park neighborhood.”
The existing property, the Crouch Walker Building, had to be demolished before construction began in early September. Sustainable practices such as minimizing construction waste and utilizing locally-sourced and recycled materials were essential to this holistic green design. [1016] Architecture’s Principal, Andrew C. Wilson maintained a clear vision for “efficiency, sustainability and modern urban living” while designing each floor of Wrightwood Crossing.
Traditional materials such as brick, stone, wood and metal sweep the exterior façades while various levels, planes and angles throughout the structure, give it a modern urban appeal. Oversized energy-efficient windows allow for panoramic skyline and neighborhood views while keeping the summer heat outside and the winter heat inside. Interior features include bio-insulation with the highest R-value, an air barrier wall system with closed-cell foam and high efficiency HVAC (non-HCFC refrigerant). Also featured in the project are water efficient toilets and fixtures, Energy-Star rated appliances, an eco-efficient elevator, and Certified Forest Stewardship hardwood.
The building’s exterior features an eye-catching landscape and residents will enjoy their private roof gardens and spacious common green-roof deck while pedestrians and cars have views of oversized balconies and interesting level changes adding to the urban streetscape. A professionally landscaped yard requiring minimal irrigation encompasses more than 50 percent of the property which can be appreciated by all. Additional exterior sustainable practices are a minimal lawn area, drought tolerant plants, no invasive plants and bike storage areas for residents and visitors. The structure also includes 100 percent permeable paving in a light color that simultaneously lowers heat absorption on site while preventing storm water run-off. Features to increase accessibility for people with disabilities are also an option for long-term occupants.
Designers at [1016] Architecture believe Wrightwood Crossing will be a wonderful building for both its inhabitants and its neighborhood for years to come.
Tags: Energy Star, hvac, LEED® Platinum
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