The most exciting challenge facing designers and architects today is finding ingenious ways to build sleek, beautiful properties with the lowest possible carbon footprint.
Solutions like plant-covered “green roofs,” solar power and water reclamation systems are becoming more common, but it’s still tough to find a home that’s totally green.
Take a look at the homes bellow – three out of four are certified by LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), the most widely used rating system in the world for eco-friendly properties.
1. Svelte and sustainable townhouse in Northern Liberties, $724,900
The “Thin Flats” complex made history as America’s first Platinum-certified residential duplex project, the highest possible ranking. The award-winning design made use of tons of natural light to reduce lighting costs, solar thermal power for hot water, and in-floor hydronic radiant heat for warmth. This unit features three bedrooms, each with its own deck, and access to a private roof garden. The garden serves a purpose too: It absorbs heat and saves rainwater for irrigation purposes.
See the listing here.
2. Platinum-level rehab in Fairmount, $1,099,000
This building also represents a milestone: the first rehabbed home in Pennsylvania to get Platinum LEED status. Located just a couple of carbon footprints from the Art Museum, this two-bedroom townhouse is generally gorgeous, but also holds some serious environmental cred. A sample of its eco-feature: solar panels that generate almost half the home's electricity; argon-filled, double-pane windows; two green roofs; and a closed-loop grey water reclamation system saves over 5,000 gallons of water per year.
See the listing here.
3. Chill condo in Fishtown, $320,000
As part of Phase 3 of the LEED-certified Ice House condo development, this 1-bedroom corner unit won't be available until early 2016. It's worth the wait, though, as you'll be getting features like oak floors, floating steel stairs, a balcony and a private green roof. You'll also have access to the common grounds, which include a rooftop dog park and a koi pond (filled with recycled rainwater, of course).
See the listing here.
4. Raise the roof in Northern Liberties, $549,000
You'll be able to enjoy 360-degree views of Northern Liberties from the private deck of the green roof in this three-bedroom, three-bath home. A little under 2200 square feet, residents will be able to enjoy the sultry maple flooring and the kitchen outfitted in high-end Energy Star Appliances.
See the listing here.