PROJECT.

Spring Green Townhomes

A house for life.

Urban townhomes designed for health, durability, adaptability, and long life.

Problem

Can a home be healthy by design? Can it be designed with adaptability, flexibility, and aging in place as a central ethic—so it can be utilized in all life stages, from young first-time homeowners to families and extended families to eventual old age? Can it be built to be durable—avoiding the pitfalls of standard contemporary construction methods? Can it be deeply rooted in place?— fitting into its historic context while also setting the standard for contemporary design? And can it do all of these while achieving industry-leading sustainability: LEED Platinum and Passive House certifications? These were the questions that drove the design of this project.

Solution

Design for Longevity

The home’s plan has built-in flexibility: the lower level can function as a potential in-law suite, a teenager’s suite, or a room for rent—allowing the home to adapt as the needs of a family change over time. It is also designed for aging in place, incorporating appropriate fixtures, lighting, materials, and a shaft for a future elevator.

Design for Wellbeing

Assemblies were carefully designed to avoid condensation and mold issues—key causes of poor indoor air quality. It also has an balanced ventilation system, which brings fresh, filtered air to every living space; and is fully electric, avoiding the pollutants that comes from combustion. Non-toxic finishes and plentiful daylight create an inviting and healthy interior.

Design for Place

Located in Cincinnati’s storied Over-the-Rhine historic district, the home’s proportions, rhythm, and materials palette reflect and complement its surroundings. Slate cladding, brick, and steel detailing echo its neighbors while providing a contemporary edge. A solar canopy provides a modern interpretation of a historic cornice.

The Impact

LEED Homes Platinum Certification
Second phase targeting PHIUS+ 2021 Certification


68%
reduction in energy use from LEED baseline

52%
Reduction in Water Use from LEED Baseline

75%
Diversion of Construction Waste

96
WalkScore - Walker's Paradise