Green construction and architecture have really taken off in the past few years and if one has to thank someone for it then I guess it must be Dubai for being the sandbox for all the green architects and allowing them to constantly explore and extend their reach. Europe along with the Middle East has been quite active in this regard and it seems that more and more of the green structures are taking shape in this part of the world. But now the rest of the world is growing along with them in this phenomenon and we a have a whole new green hub taking shape to add to the long list.
The Forbes Park residence in Chelsea, MA, is giving new life to the old Forbes Lithograph Manufacturing Company, re-envisioning it as a prime model for sustainable development in urban city cores. On site the developers for Forbes Park, Urban Design & Development, are making great efforts to harvest rainwater, revitalize over 12 acres of marsh and coastal grassland, and preserve as much of the existing vegetation as possible, including five 140-year old pin-oak trees. The live/work apartments are situated within the facade of the old printing company.
By creating a large breezeway through the center of the building, all residences have access to an abundance of daylight and natural breezes, nearly eliminating the need for air conditioning even during the humid summer months. And for power, the residence will rely on the grandest green addition to the site: a 240-foot tall wind turbine that will provide the majority of the complex’s electricity. The existing brick wall and concrete floors remain intact in beautiful condition, and add a unique quality to the Forbes Park development. All of the materials demolished on site are scheduled to be reused whenever possible with a goal of less than 20% being sent to landfills.
It is nice to see more of such green communities taking shape rather than singular green structures, as these kind of communities allow you to expand the scope for green living and spread the message of eco-friendly sustainability in a grand and practical style. Now, if you want a piece of this, then you better be prepared to give up at least $ 205,000 and that is only the tentative starting price!
Via: Inhabitat
