I am interested in going green. Where should I start?

The HCBA has special energy$avers grants in place to help owners of Historic Chicago Bungalows offset the costs of energy-efficient rehab projects.  There are also pattern drawings available that clearly lay out all aspects of the permit and preparation processes necessary to complete a green building restoration project.

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HCBA's Fifth Green Bungalow Block: 7600 South Cregier


HCBA began work on the fifth Green Bungalow Block on the 7600 block of South Cregier Avenue in South Shore in March 2010. Over the next several months, one bungalow on the block (7622 South Cregier) was fully renovated, while over 20 other homes on the 7600, as well as the 7500 and 7700, blocks received HCBA grants of up to $5,000 for insulation, air-sealing, and other energy efficiency improvements.

 

Renovation of the model home was guided by the HCBA's Design Guidelines and the City of Chicago's Green Building guidelines; the model home received a three-star rating—the highest rating—under the City's guidelines.

 

The renovation included interior restoration and historically appropriate and environmentally sound landscaping, as well as measures to improve the energy efficiency of the home through the use of solar thermal panels for hot water generation, a tankless water heater, air-sealing and proper insulation.

 

 


Follow the Progress on the Green Bungalow Block

March

Ready to begin demolition! Gutting of the entryway uncovered an opening for an art-glass window, but unfortunately the window is missing.

  • Removed wallpaper and mirrors on the first floor.
  • Stripped first-floor bath down to the studs.
  • Reinforced ceiling joists for added structural support.
  • Removed interior doors and trim.

View more photos of the progress at the Green Bungalow in March

  
     
April

The discovery of mold issues meant removing much more first-floor plaster than anticipated, delaying the schedule by a couple of weeks.

  • Excavated area under rear porch.
  • Began installing roof shingles.
  • Interior framing is looking good!
  • Set back dormer 20 feet for added light and space on the second floor.

 

View more photos of the progress at the Green Bungalow in April

  
     
May

The crew began roughing in mechanicals, ductwork and plumbing, and installed the tracks for solar panels.

  • Poured new rear foundation and basement steps.
  • Framed out second-floor rooms and closets.
  • Installed new roof shingles.

 

Click here to view more photos of the progress at the Green Bungalow in May.

  
     
June

With most framing of the rooms completed, the interior layout is taking shape. Time to begin making design decisions on things like kitchen cabinets, linoleum, and tile.

  • Completed most interior framing.
  • New concrete under back porch set.
  • Installed solar panels.
  • Completed about 90 percent of ductwork and PVC piping for mechanicals.

 

Click here to view more photos of the progress at the Green Bungalow in June.

  
JuLY

Electrical work has begun! Interior restoration of doors and windows progresses as the exterior takes shape with the rebuilding of the wing walls and replacement of window sills.

  • Electrical rough-in work completed in kitchen and 1st floor bedroom.
  • Restored bungalow doors installed in bedroom entry ways and closets.
  • Front wing wall rebuilt using brick salvaged from original structure.
  • Limestone window sills installed where they were replaced years ago.

 Click here to view more photos of the progress at the Green Bungalow in July.


   Restored windows, interior
August

With landscaping nearly complete, the finishing touches on the interior begin.

  • Landscaping completed on the north, west and northeast sides of the home.
  • First floor is primed and painted.
  • New oak staircase built throughout entire home.
  • Wood flooring installation begins on second floor.
  • Bungalow-style door fitted for back entrance.

 Click here to view more photos of the progress at the Green Bungalow in August.

  





 

Click here to read the press release announcing the launch of the fifth Green Bungalow Block!