LEED for Homes Illinois

Illinois LEED for Homes gained real momentum when the 11 townhomes developed by Brinshore Development in Highland Park earned LEED Gold certification. What stands out most is that this affordable housing project drew attention regionally and nationally for a model other communities can copy.

The ambitious project, known as Hyacinth Place, is a fantastic example of how LEED Homes can be accessible and do not have to be expensive. The attached single-family townhomes were built with affordability in mind, targeted towards teachers and nurses.

Each 1,550-square-foot townhome offers three bedrooms and 2.5 baths, a highly energy-efficient layout, and a geothermal heating and cooling system expected to cut utility costs by 50%-75%. Additional green features include a wind turbine that generates power for common-area lighting, permeable paving stones in an attractive courtyard, a reflective energy-efficient roof, Energy Star appliances, bamboo flooring, eco-friendly cabinets and carpeting, and landscaping with native plants.

Hyacinth Place stands as the City of Highland Park’s showcase for affordable, eco-friendly, transit-oriented housing. Every home comes with a balcony, a basement adding 300 square feet, and an attached two-car garage. The townhomes sit just blocks from the Ft. Sheridan Metra station, bus routes, and a bike path.

The Highland Park Illinois Community Land Trust (HPICLT) sold the townhomes for $239,000 to households earning up to 120% of the Area Median Income (about $90,000 for a family of four). HPICLT is a nonprofit created by the City of Highland Park to build high-quality, affordable housing. Learn more at www.hpiclt.org

Story Tags: affordable housing, Brinshore, Highland Park, hyacinth place, LEED Gold, townhomes

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