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Conservatory Apartments, IHDC
Chicago, IL
Sustainable = attainable.
Taking cues from nature and the neighborhood.
Paving at path for passive design strategies
The Conservatory Apartments stand as a testament to the power of creative collaboration and forward-thinking design. With a total area of 24,950 SF, this development addresses a critical need for attainable housing while pushing the boundaries of sustainable architecture by providing 43 affordable units.

Situated just north of the iconic Garfield Park Conservatory, on a boulevard, the Conservatory Apartments boast a first-of-its-kind design at scale in Chicago, demonstrating that the Passive House US (PHIUS) Certification for projects of its type is within reach in the Midwestern cool-humid climate (ASHRAE zone 5a). The design ethos of the Conservatory Apartments revolves around biophilic principles, seamlessly integrating nature into urban living spaces. By incorporating elements such as a captivating moss wall in the lobby, natural wood accents for ceiling treatments and light fixtures and daylighting in the corridors the project blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments, creating a harmonious connection with its natural surroundings. This biophilic approach not only enhances the living experience for residents but also pays homage to the nearby conservatory and park.

Conservatory Apartments is the first Passive House Certified large, affordable, multi-family passive house project in Chicago, setting a new standard for environmentally conscious construction in the region. Despite the challenges posed by the seasonal climate, the project demonstrates that highly sustainable and affordable design is achievable, offering a blueprint for future developments. Moreover, the sustainability goals of the project extend beyond PHIUS passive house certification. The Conservatory Apartments was also selected to participate in the Living Building Challenge (LBC) Pilot Program for affordable housing, underscoring its commitment to achieving the highest standards of environmental performance.

Blending biophilic design, sustainability, and affordability to achieve Passive House Certification, Conservatory Apartments is redefining eco-conscious housing near Chicago’s iconic Garfield Park Conservatory for an underserved community.
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Results
The building's design meets Passive House Standards and has achieved Passive House certification through the Passive House Institute of the United States (PHIUS). It is the first building of its kind in Chicago to meet this standard.
The design team utilized the biophilic design strategy of simulating natural forms, through the light fixtures specified and through patterned glass.
The incorporation of a low maintenance moss wall in the building lobby is both a way of bringing nature inside but also a nod to the namesake conservatory a block away.
The tight, well insulated building envelope consists of walls with an R value of 47, a roof with an R value of 60, and foundation and slab on grade are an R value of 20.
The project complies with the ComEd energy efficient guidelines, thus having Energy Star appliances and LED lighting.
The building accommodates a 14 kW photovoltaic system.
Through the specification of water saving plumbing fixtures, indoor water use is reduced by 25%.
The site meets the transit served zoning definition of being within 1,320 feet of the Conservatory stop on the green line.
Taking cues from nature and the neighborhood.
Conservatory Apartments, IHDC
Chicago, IL
PROJECT DATA
Sustainable = attainable.