A high-tech but energy-friendly, single-family “green home” constructed by members of the Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters (CRCC) in Lemont, Ill., is up for sale with some proceeds intended for local charity.
“Our goal with building the ‘green home’ is to be the industry leader when it comes to construction of new homes that are built for energy efficiency and optimum performance. We maintain the most advanced training program, producing skilled tradesmen who are properly prepared to meet today’s energy-efficiency needs,” said Frank Libby, president, CRCC. “For people looking to address energy loss and associated high costs in their current homes, our certified energy analysts are properly trained and credentialed to help homeowners with those interests as well.”
Using technological advancements in home automation, the home is built for design and performance. Owners of the home will have a dashboard of residential controls to regulate all lighting, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, appliances, security and other systems, resulting in convenience, energy efficiency and safety benefits. Among the home’s features are multi-zone mechanicals, energy-efficient appliances, solar panels and a rainwater retention system.
The 2,565-square-foot, LEED-certified ranch home is designed for modern comfort, energy efficiency and convenience, yet built to challenge the natural elements. The five-bedroom house located in the Briarcliffe subdivision has an open floor plan.
Members of the carpenters’ union teamed with Chicago’s Lakeshore Public Television to construct the home for the 13-episode public television series “Built to Last,” which is scheduled to air sometime next year on public television stations across the nation. The home is designed to highlight sustainable construction and environmentally friendly materials and innovations and is priced at $550,000. Some of the proceeds from its sale will go to local charity.
“The carpenters have built this home seeking LEED Platinum status, which is the highest level of designation possible when certified by the U.S. Green Building Council. That designation for performance is based on lower operating costs and increased asset value, reduction in landfill waste, energy and water conservation, more healthful and safer living environments for occupants, mitigation of harmful greenhouse gas emissions and the potential to qualify for tax rebates,” said Debbie Prodehl, vice president, Coldwell Banker Honig-Bell. “Combining the potential for cost savings with a reduced environmental impact and all the bells and whistles of sophisticated technology, this is a must-see for anyone interested in the latest and greatest in home building.”
How much of the sale price and which charity or charities will receive proceeds from the home’s future sale is yet to be determined.
