What comes to mind upon hearing "eco-friendly living"? For some people, the phrase evokes using recycled everything, living off the land, and cutting way back on electricity. None of this sounds conducive to urban life, but being an environmentalist is getting easier in New York. The subway system always made public transportation a convenient option, and the MTA has set a goal of purchasing only electric buses by 2029. Compost drop-offs are on the rise throughout the five boroughs, as are clothing recycling opportunities.
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Equally significantly, developers and designers are starting to think bigger than LEED certification and aspire to Passive House standards. Not only does this types of construction lead to a lower carbon footprint, but its airtightness and efficient infrastructure lead to lower energy costs for residents of the resulting buildings.
While this is mostly being utilized in new developments, Passive House construction is also being used to update older buildings, thus allowing them to get around the challenges of making environmentally friendly modifications in a historic district. Below, see a selection of apartments and townhouses with small carbon footprints and high style.
While this is mostly being utilized in new developments, Passive House construction is also being used to update older buildings, thus allowing them to get around the challenges of making environmentally friendly modifications in a historic district. Below, see a selection of apartments and townhouses with small carbon footprints and high style.
Perch Harlem
Located in Manhattan's first-ever Passive House rental, this apartment features over-sized triple-pane windows and highly efficient insulation to reduce energy consumption and noise pollution. The kitchen is equipped with Energy Star appliances, stone countertops, and porcelain tile backsplash. The amenities package includes a virtual doorman, exercise room, lounge, roof deck, and bike room. See floor plan and full details here.
443 Bergen Street
Passive House technology at 443 Bergen Street includes a solar array built into the south-facing facade to increase sustainability and decrease energy costs. Interior features of this penthouse include reclaimed materials and efficient heating and air conditioning systems. It is all integrated with stylish craftsmanship, an open layout, and three private outdoor spaces. See floor plan and full details here.
130 West 95th Street
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This sunny, south-facing Upper West Side townhouse dates back to the beginning of the 20th century and is rich in historic details like arched windows, 8'6" ceilings, and a private garden. However, it is not a relic of the past; on the contrary, the current plan is to bring it up to Passive House standards with low energy usage, a solar array on the roof for electricity, and a "skin" on the rear of the building to provide hot water. See floor plan and full details here.
Houston House
Environmentally friendly features of this floor-through condo include triple-glazed floor-to-ceiling windows, an energy recovery ventilator system, and in-unit washer/dryer with heat pump technology. This is all tastefully integrated into open-concept interiors with high ceilings, a professional-quality kitchen, an office nook, and sweeping views of the Lower Manhattan skyline. The bedrooms have excellent closet space and en suite baths. See floor plan and full details here.
53 West 71st Street
Stunning single-family townhouse has recently been renovated to Passive House standards with an ultra-efficient building envelope, triple-glazed windows in line with Landmarks standards, multiple sump pumps, and a sophisticated ventilation system. However, none of this came at the expense of such highly coveted features as double-height ceilings, an Eco Hearth fireplace, a full-floor master suite, and a glassed-in roof deck. The kitchen offers a large center island, generous storage space, top-of-the-line appliances, and access to the private garden. See floor plan and full details here.
Would you like to tour any of these properties?
Just complete the info below.
Or call us at (212) 755-5544
Would you like to tour any of these properties?