Linnaean Apartments

20 affordable apartments, undergoing a deep energy retrofit and targeting net zero energy. Linnaean Apartments contains 20 units of elderly/disabled efficiency dwelling units in a low-rise building managed and maintained by the Cambridge Housing Authority.

  • This three story wood frame, masonry and cast concrete building includes exterior corridors/balconies, and was originally constructed in 1962, then later purchased but never used as a college dormitory for Radcliffe. In 1981 the structure was converted into affordable elderly and disabled housing. Per a capital needs assessment, it was clear that a number of building attributes were approaching the end of their useful lifespan.

  • The project goal is a full envelope and systems update to achieve a deep energy retrofit providing:

    • improved occupant comfort

    • exceptionally low operating costs

    • healthier indoor air quality

    • long term durability with low maintenance

    • zero on-site fossil fuel use

  • The goal is for the building to be revitalized with a new super-insulated enclosure, high performance windows, high efficiency heating/cooling, new domestic hot water systems, new mechanical ventilation, and if budget allows, a solar electric system to help offset consumption.

Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts

Services: Multifamily Architecture

Owner/Manager: Cambridge Housing Authority

Design Basics:

Square Footage: 15,000
Stories: 20

Energy:

Super-Insulation, Solar Electric System, Net Zero Energy, Zero Fossil Fuel On-Site

Project Team:

Architecture: ZED

MEP/FP Engineer: Petersen Engineering

Photography: Eric Roth Photography