Historic, contemporary, and LEED Platinum
This renovation and addition to an 1870 townhome pays homage to the past with an eye toward the future.
Certifications:
- LEED Homes Platinum
Our Role:
- Architect
- Energy modeler
- LEED Provider & Rater
Project Team:
- GreenBau, Builder
- Schaefer, Inc., Structural Engineer
How do we radically upgrade the performance of an 1870 masonry townhouse while respecting its history? And how do we create an addition that is distinctly contemporary, yet fits with its historic context?
As both the architects and sustainability consultants on this project, we worked closely with the owners to develop a design that weaves together their vision with performance goals and historic requirements.
- Juxtapose historic and contemporary.
An addition wraps the top and rear of the existing house, with contemporary metal and wood complementing and contrasting with the existing masonry building. The historic façade is restored, and a third-floor terrace is set back, hidden from the street for privacy.
- Install best-practice insulation.
Insulating existing masonry requires careful attention to detail to protect and preserve the existing brick. Continuous interior rigid insulation, new high-performance windows, and a new high R-value roof create an efficient, durable envelope.
- Near Net Zero Energy design.
In addition to a high-performance envelope, the home boasts a high-efficiency ground source heat pump, energy recovery ventilation, and a 9.9 kW rooftop solar array. Its urban location on Cincinnati’s streetcar promotes walkability and reduces auto dependence.
LEED Homes Platinum Certified
- 68% reduction in energy use
- 9.9 kW of on-site renewable energy production
- 65% of rainwater reused on-site
- Walk Score: 95