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.
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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.
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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
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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