The Chicago Net Zero House
Tired of paying utility bills? You could build a net zero house–one that generates as much energy as it consumes–like this Ravenswood home. Designed by renowned green architects Farr Associates, it features solar panels, a gray water system for recycling waste water, a geothermal heating system, and carefully placed windows, nooks, and crannies that keep the house cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Not satisfied with slapping an ugly array of solar panels on the roof, the architects designed it to incorporate all these features seamlessly in a beautiful modern design.
Of course, these green features added 10 to 15 percent to the upfront cost of building the home. The final price tag was $1.6 million for the 2,675-square foot home, putting it out of reach for most buyers. However, its design, and skillful use of green features and materials, give a glimpse of what’s to come in green living.
