A selection of Passive House-certified projects in New York City
2024 is New York’s hottest year on record to date, which will come as no surprise to anyone who was in the city this summer. The heat record was broken two days in a row in July 2024, and August 2024 opened with another heat wave (defined as temperatures well above the historical average for more than two days).
With the effects of climate change proving impossible to ignore, and with New York’s buildings accounting for nearly 70% of the city’s carbon emissions, the city is taking action. City of Yes for Carbon Neutrality, an initiative to make it easier to add solar panels and better insulation to existing buildings, was heartily approved in December 2023. However, Local Law 97, which requires building owners to reduce emissions or face fines, has proven more controversial: In August 2024, shortly after a state court of appeals reinstated a lawsuit seeking to overturn the law, City Council introduced a bill that would slash the fines.
In this article:
About Passive House
Against this backdrop, an elite group of developers, builders, and owners in the city have taken it upon themselves to dramatically improve the energy efficiency of their structures. Stirred by the incredible energy savings and environmental benefits possible, several dozen projects have enlisted in the German-born Passive House certification process. The rigorous standard, which includes airtightness and solar shading, results in quiet interiors, ultra-efficient heating and cooling systems, and highly-insulated building envelopes with the ultimate prospect of requiring little energy for space heating or cooling - meaning more money saved on your energy bills. And if you want to talk numbers, according to the official website of New York Passive House Inc., this type of construction "delivers up to approximately a 90% reduction in heating and cooling demand and up to a 75% reduction in overall primary energy demand" compared to most existing buildings.
Marianne Hyde, a partner at leading Passive House firm, Zakrzewski + Hyde Architects tells us going for Passive House certification can result in very little additional cost to major renovations or new construction endeavors— especially as more contractors become familiar with the standard and compliant products become more widely available. Additionally, as part of the city’s goal of carbon neutrality by 2050, the New Construction Future Housing Initiative was created to encourage all-electric Passive House buildings in May 2023.
Marianne Hyde, a partner at leading Passive House firm, Zakrzewski + Hyde Architects tells us going for Passive House certification can result in very little additional cost to major renovations or new construction endeavors— especially as more contractors become familiar with the standard and compliant products become more widely available. Additionally, as part of the city’s goal of carbon neutrality by 2050, the New Construction Future Housing Initiative was created to encourage all-electric Passive House buildings in May 2023.
The benefits of Passive House construction took on greater significance after a series of extreme weather events. In summer 2023, after days when smoke from Canadian wildfires led to New York having the worst air quality in the world, the air filtration provided by Passive House infrastructure experienced a new appreciation. Weeks after the skies cleared, The Wall Street Journal spoke to Passive House homeowners who only had to turn on their air conditioners for a few hours on triple-digit heat days to keep their houses’ temperature in the 70s. New Yorkers who experienced higher electric bills as a result of the heat wave would certainly appreciate having the air conditioner on for less time.
So far, we’ve identified 75* Passive House projects in the city. Some have adopted Passive House features, others are fully certified, and it is more than likely that the number of projects adopting such energy-efficient components and construction will continue to rise in coming years.
*This is an ongoing list and will continually be updated as more Passive House projects emerge.
*This is an ongoing list and will continually be updated as more Passive House projects emerge.
MANHATTAN:
East Village Condos, 180 Second Avenue
Neighborhood: East Village
Building Type: Condominium
180 Second Avenue is a newly constructed residential building between East 11th and 12th Streets in the East Village. The building was constructed to Passive House Standards, and the bulkhead was designed to accept solar panels for water heating. The one- and two-bedroom units feature loft-like interiors and at least one private outdoor space.
Gemma Gramercy, 200 East 23rd Street
Neighborhood: Gramercy
Building Type: Rental
On the corner of East 23rd Street and Second Avenue, Gemma Gramercy was built to Passive House standards with a continuous exterior air barrier, increased insulation in the exterior wall, triple-glazed windows, conditioned fresh air with energy recovery ducted into all units, and blower door testing used on the exterior envelope to monitor air leakage. Such features reduce energy consumption up to 85%, and additional perks include thoughtfully designed kitchens, serene baths, in-unit laundry, fitness center, lounge, and rooftop terrace.
489 and 501 Ninth Avenue
Neighborhood: Midtown West
Building Type: Condominium
At the nexus of Hudson Yards, Hell’s Kitchen, and the Garment District, this two-building project is poised to be the largest Passive House condo of its kind in the city. Renderings show multiple shared and private outdoor spaces, and a fall 2023 visit saw foundation work underway.
BKSK Architects
Charlotte of the Upper West Side, 470 Columbus Avenue
Neighborhood: Broadway Corridor
Building Type: Condominium
This Upper West Side-Central Park West Historic District development was approved by the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) the second time around, when the design was revisited by BKSK Architects. The context-sensitive red brick facade and terra cotta fins are underpinned by robust insulation and airtight seals to minimize air leaks and drafts. A terra cotta louver system keeps the units bright, and is designed to deflect heat in summer and bring in sunlight in winter. The full-floor, four-bedroom apartments feature triple-layer windows, quadruple layers of high-performance acoustically insulated QuietRock drywall, non-toxic materials and finishes, energy-efficient appliances, wood flooring and doors certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, locally sourced marble in the kitchens and baths, and their own state-of-the-art energy recovery ventilation system (ERV) to deliver fresh, filtered outdoor air into each home. Current availabilities start at $7,450,000.
Charlotte of the Upper West Side, #GARDEN
$8,950,000 (-25.4%)
Broadway Corridor | Condominium | 4 Bedrooms, 5 Baths | 3,570 ft2
Charlotte of the Upper West Side, #GARDEN (CORE Group Marketing LLC)
25 West 88th Street via Leslie J. Garfield
25 West 88th Street
Neighborhood: Central Park West
Building Type: Townhouse
This Upper West Side townhouse dates back to 1889, but its infrastructure is up to the standards imposed by today’s Passive House certification process. Following an extensive gut renovation, features include hospital-grade air filters and plasma ionizers, triple filtration of the water supply, triple-pane glass windows, solar panels, superior insulation, LED lighting, and rear yard fencing and benches made from recycled Coney Island boardwalk. None of this, though, came at the expense of the historic brownstone exterior. Best-selling author Lee Child bought it for $17 million in April 2024.
Rendering of The Lirio via CetraRuddy
The Lirio, 806 Ninth Avenue
Neighborhood: Midtown West
Building Type: Rental
In July 2024, a groundbreaking ceremony was held for The Lirio, a new affordable housing building planned for Hell's Kitchen and designed to meet rigorous Passive House standards with such features as a high-performance building envelope, VRF HVAC, solar power, and green roofs. Developed in partnership between Hudson Companies and Housing Works, The Lirio will offer 112 units, set to include 59 supportive housing units, 44 permanently affordable homes for families, and eight homes for formerly homeless individuals. The development will also feature an office for the MTA, a Housing Works flagship store, and neighborhood retail.
60 White Street via Sorgente Group of America
60 White Street
Neighborhood: Tribeca
Building Type: Condo
60 White Street is a cast iron building dating back to 1869, and a recent conversion to condos has taken it well into the 21st century: Eighty percent of materials salvaged from the original structure were reused in the conversion, and the building is up to Passive House standards with a new class of windows, radiant heat throughout the residences, a blue roof rainwater collection system, and an air-purifying green wall in the lobby.
The Bluestone Organization
The Dovecote, 11 West 126th Street
Neighborhood: Harlem
Building Type: Condominium
In spring 2024, sales launched at The Dovecote, a six-story boutique condominium constructed to Passive House standards with high-performance insulation and triple-pane windows. All full-floor units feature premium finishes, kitchens with Caesarstone countertops and Bosch appliances, tranquil primary baths, and VRF HVAC systems. Several units have private balconies, and the building is topped with a common roof terrace. The first availabilities start at $1.5 million.
The Dovecote, #FL5 (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)
Engine 16 via Baxt Ingui Architects
Engine 16, 223 East 25th Street
Neighborhood: Gramercy Park
Building Type: Condominium
A short distance from Kip's Bay's "Hospital Alley," a firehouse originally built for Engine Company 16 in 1879 is being converted to a four-unit condominium and gut renovated to Passive House standards, including a solar canopy on the roof. Fortunately for architecture enthusiasts, this will not come at the expense of the building’s Classically-informed facade.
Google Street View Image (Sep 2017)
544 East 13th Street
Neighborhood: East Village
Building Type: Cooperative
Paul A. Castrucci Architects was at the helm of this East Village affordable housing project, which has served as a home for city squatters and most notably, the on and off residence for the family of Rosario Dawson. The process, through which the firm engaged with the existing tenants, included a gut renovation to prepare the building's air-tight construction with improved insulation and windows.
Synapse Development Group
Perch Harlem, 542 West 153rd Street
Neighborhood: Hamilton Heights
Building Type: Rental
Perch Harlem offers 34 compartmentalized apartments, meaning residents can enjoy central heating and cooling, fresh air, lower energy bills, and proper insulation that protects their ears from the noisy city streets. It is notably the first operational Passive House rental in Manhattan, and passed the blower door test for certification.
Paul A. Castrucci Architect
312-322 Canal Street
Neighborhood: Tribeca
Building Type: Rental
Landmarks Preservation Commission approved a new design by Paul A. Castrucci Architect in January 2018, stating that the overhauled design fits better with the district in terms of rhythm and height. What has not changed, though, are plans for a continuously insulated Passive House certified project with optimized energy consumption; complete with high-efficiency heat pumps to condition interior units on an individual basis while energy recovery ventilators continuously supply the residences with filtered and conditioned fresh and healthy air.
Arquitectonica
Convivium, 515 East 86th Street
Neighborhood: Yorkville
Building Type: Rental
Thanks to its Passive House infrastructure, this mixed-use Yorkville building is reported to use approximately 80% less energy than similar buildings in the area. It will also provide consistently comfortable temperatures and better air quality. An affordable lottery took place in spring 2020, and market-rate availabilities start at $4,295/month.
Handel Architects
Sendero Verde, 1691 Madison Avenue
Neighborhood: East Harlem
Building Type: Rental
When all three phases of Sendero Verde are completed, the world's largest fully affordable Passive House development will bring over 700 units of affordable housing, the project will bring a new school with full gymnasium, community space for the Harlem Children's Zone and Union Settlement Association, new office and retail space, community gardens, and an 18,000-square-foot courtyard with a children’s play area, adult outdoor exercise equipment, seating areas, and a performance stage to the neighborhood. Construction on the first of three phases was completed in December 2022, and construction on the second phase is now underway.
NYC Housing Preservation & Development
Balton Commons, 265 West 126th Street
Neighborhood: Harlem
Building Type: Rental
Balton Commons took shape on the former site of the Mandela community garden in Harlem. The building was designed to Passive House standards and features tech incubator space managed by Silicon Harlem, community facility space, ground-floor commercial space, and 37 affordable apartments for residents earning between 30 and 90 percent of the area median income.
248 West 71st Street
Neighborhood: Upper West Side
Building Type: Townhouse
The house at 248 West 71st Street dates back to the early 20th century, but was updated to Passive House standards in an extensive renovation winding down in 2022. Additional perks include five fireplaces, two chef’s kitchens, six bedrooms with en suite baths, and seven private outdoor spaces, including a bamboo garden. It was listed for $26 million in May 2023, but its most recent price cut brings it down to $22.9 million.
248 West 71st Street, #TH
$22,900,000 (-11.9%)
Broadway Corridor | Townhouse | 6+ Bedrooms, 6+ Baths | 7,110 ft2
248 West 71st Street, #TH (Corcoran Group)
Flow Chelsea via CityRealty
Flow Chelsea, 211 West 29th Street
Neighborhood: Chelsea
Building Type: Rental
Living in Manhattan is expensive, but residents of Flow Chelsea can expect to save on energy costs thanks to a super-tight building envelope and triple-glazed windows that result in a significant reduction of heating and cooling usage. They also enjoy a building underpinned by a state-of-the-art air purification system and offering amenities like an attended lobby, cold storage, a gym, and a bike room.
14 White Street rendering via DXA Studio
14 White Street
Neighborhood: Tribeca
Building Type: Condo
Work is underway on 14 White Street, a new residential building in the Tribeca East Historic District. Its 85-foot height and contemporary metal envelope were designed by DXA Studio and NAVA to create a dialogue with its historic cast iron neighbors. However, the new building is not all style and no substance: It was built to Passive House standards with high-performance windows and a continuously insulated rain screen envelope beneath the metal-clad exterior.
Photo by CityRealty
16 East 126th Street
Neighborhood: Harlem
Building Type: Townhouse
This Harlem brownstone retrofit started in 2016 and ended in 2020. The construction process involved a vertical partial floor expansion and converting its 11 units into just two duplex apartments with a roof deck. Permits listed Downtown Designworks Architecture as the architect of record.
Google Street View
130 West 95th Street
Neighborhood: Broadway Corridor
Building Type: Townhouse
Going down the Passive House road has not been easy for this gut rehab/addition project - as the townhouse owners, Abel B’Hahn and Lorna Davis, have extensively documented on their blog. The renovated home is "aiming to be not just the most environmentally sustainable townhouse in Manhattan, but a net zero energy home."
Murphy Burnham & Buttrick Architects
Harlem Passive House, 527 1/2 Manhattan Avenue
Neighborhood: Harlem
Building Type: Townhouse
This five-story Harlem brownstone was gut renovated to include a perimeter built-up wall of 7” cellulose inside a vapor barrier with an outer partition wall for running electrical conduit, aluminum-clad wood windows, a Mitsubishi mini-split heat pump, and a large skylight. Passive House features aside, interiors of the home are gorgeous, modern, and airy.
Rendering via Coconut Properties
37 Hillside Avenue
Neighborhood: Inwood
Building Type: Rental
In July 2023, a housing lottery took place for 37 Hillside Avenue, the first phase of a supportive housing project for seniors. The building was constructed to Passive House standards with an airtight building envelope, high-performance windows, and balanced heat and moisture recovery ventilation. Residents have access to a shared outdoor courtyard with gardens.
206 East 20th Street via Bond New York
206 East 20th Street
Neighborhood: Gramercy
Building Type: Townhouse
206 East 20th Street was among the first townhouses in New York to embrace Passive House design. Features include meticulous exterior insulation, triple glazed windows, a high-performance air filtration system, energy-efficient lighting, organic paint, and low VOC eco-friendly materials. In a 2019 interview with Mansion Global, the owners said the insulation created “pin-drop silence” even with construction going on next door.
Paul A. Castrucci Architect
ABC No Rio, 156 Rivington Street
Neighborhood: Lower East Side
Building Type: Commercial
Since their original building’s demolition in 2016, community arts organization ABC No Rio has been performing “in exile” at other Lower East Side and Alphabet City venues. But they will be able to come home soon: In July 2024, the groundbreaking ceremony for a new Passive House headquarters by Paul A. Castrucci Architects took place. Upon completion, the building will include a darkroom, a screen printing facility, a small press library, and community gathering spaces. Construction is estimated to take 18 months.
BROOKLYN:
100 Flatbush Avenue via Alloy Development
100 Flatbush Avenue
Neighborhood: Downtown Brooklyn
Building Type: Rental
In January 2023, construction topped out on the entirely electric, fossil fuel independent 100 Flatbush Avenue. Conceived as part of “the most sustainable block in Brooklyn,” per developer Alloy, the school component of the project (which includes a new public elementary school and a new home for the Khalil Gibran International Academy) will be built to Passive House standards. The 441 new housing units will include induction cooktops and heat-pump dryers.
719 Sixth Avenue via CityRealty
719 Sixth Avenue
Neighborhood: South Slope-Greenwood Heights
Building Type: Condominium
A short distance from the lush greenery of Greenwood Cemetery, 719 Sixth Avenue brings Passive House construction to South Slope-Greenwood Heights. Its concrete form construction, triple-pane windows, and high-quality HRV air filtration units were instrumental in its designation, and provide extra benefits to residents in the form of improved air quality and lower energy bills. This is in addition to such official amenities as direct elevator access, smart intercom system, a common rear yard with turf lawn, and shared roof deck.
Lexe (Compass)
Lexe, 669 Saint Mark's Avenue
Neighborhood: Crown Heights
Building Type: Condominium
Lexè is a new boutique condominium located just outside the Crown Heights Historic District and constructed to Passive House standards. The building was designed with an airtight seal that limits air leaks and drafts, thus keeping energy consumption to a minimum, and additional features include triple-pane windows, state-of-the-art individual ERV systems, and solar panels. The stylish interiors were designed by Lago, an Italian company that uses materials with zero environmental impact and superior quality standards, and the kitchen appliances include an induction stove. It has proven a desirable combination: The 10-unit building is currently sold out.
RoseBK, 207 North 8th Street
Neighborhood: Williamsburg
Building Type: Condominium
Fresh off its success at Lexe (see above), the development team turned its attention to Williamsburg with the four-unit RoseBK. The building was constructed to Passive House standards with features like triple-pane windows, airtight interiors, Isokorb connection to prevent mold and condensation, state-of-the-art air filtration, and high-performance ventilation with individual ducts. All simplex through triplex units feature sustainably sourced hardwood floors, non-toxic paints and finishes, and induction cooktops. Two of the four units are currently in contract, and a penthouse is available for $3.995 million.
RoseBk, #PH1 (Serhant LLC)
Rendering of Cooper Park Commons via Architecture Outfit
Cooper Park Commons, 288 Jackson Street
Neighborhood: Williamsburg
Building Type: Rental
As part of the plan to convert the long-vacant Greenpoint Hospital to an affordable housing development, two new buildings will be constructed, two more will be converted to residential use, and all will adhere to Passive House standards. Locals have responded enthusiastically to plans for the development, and the development team kicked off ULURP in June 2021.
64 Degraw Street via Compass
64 Degraw Street
Neighborhood: Columbia Street Waterfront District
Building Type: Townhouse
In the Columbia Street Waterfront District, a townhouse has attracted attention for its cool minimalist aesthetic, luxurious interiors, and Passive House construction. Airtight insulation and European triple-pane windows were key factors in its designation, and additional features include a drive-in garage, 35’ backyard, smart thermostat, heated indoor pool, and roof deck. Public records indicate that it sold for $6,500,000 in August 2022.
271 Hicks Street via Douglas Elliman
271 Hicks Street
Neighborhood: Brooklyn Heights
Building Type: Townhouse
271 Hicks Street, a Greek Revival brownstone in the Brooklyn Heights Historic District, dates back to the 19th century, but has been impeccably renovated to modern standards. With new insulation, triple pane windows, five-zone central air, and continuous filtered fresh air, that includes Passive House standards. Public records indicate that it sold for $14,995,000 in September 2023.
Columbia Waterfront Condominiums via CityRealty
Columbia Waterfront Condominiums, 138 Sackett Street
Neighborhood: Carroll Gardens
Building Type: Condominium
Columbia Waterfront Condominiums was one of the first multi-family buildings in Brooklyn to integrate Passive House principles. Its attributes include triple-glazed doors and windows, a state-of-the-art air filtration system, and energy-efficient appliances. The environmentally friendly features and high-end interiors proved highly attractive to buyers - the building is sold out.
The Butler Collection, 350 Butler Street
Neighborhood: Park Slope
Building Type: Condominium
On the cusp of Park Slope and Gowanus, The Butler Collection is a two-building development developed by The Brooklyn Home Company. The larger building at 350 Butler Street was constructed to Passive House standards with highly insulated walls, triple-pane windows, and individual ERV units. All units feature open-plan layouts, high-end kitchen appliances, walk-in closets, luxurious primary baths, and in-unit laundry. Amenities include a fitness center, children’s playroom, and common roof deck. The project is over 90% sold, and remaining availabilities start at $1.625 million.
The Butler Collection, #9A (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)
Drawing of Arras via Handel Architects
Arras
Neighborhood: East New York
Building Type: Rental
Handel Architects has unveiled a concept design for Arras, a mixed-use residential project in East New York “designed to serve as a model of a socially transformative and environmentally conscious design.” The project is designed to Passive House standards and includes 326 affordable units, 13,100 square feet of retail space occupied by locally-based tenants, and approximately 20,500 square feet of community space.
Rendering of Bethany Terraces via Paul A. Castrucci Architects
Bethany Terraces
Neighborhood: East Flatbush
Building Type: Rental
At the beginning of 2021, Paul A. Castrucci Architects received Department of Buildings approval for Bethany Terraces, an affordable senior housing complex planned for a sunny street in Brooklyn. The project intends to use modular construction, and is being designed to Passive House standards with a robust thermal envelope, heat recovery ventilators, air sealing, centralized gas domestic hot water heaters, and a rooftop solar array capable of bringing the building to Net Zero or Near Net Zero production.
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Rendering of Frame via Guiding Architects
Frame 283, 283 Greene Avenue
Neighborhood: Clinton Hill
Building Type: Rental
283 Greene Avenue is a residential conversion of a two-story manufacturing building in Clinton Hill. The cross-laminated timber (CLT) in the construction comes from sustainably managed forests, and its weather-tight panels will go hand in hand with Passive House standards. CLT construction can help with climate change by improving the building's carbon storage by almost 68 percent, and a roof of solar panels will generate the majority of the building's energy needs. As of this writing, the building is fully leased.
Frame 122 (Murray Engineering)
Frame 122, 122 Waverly Avenue
Neighborhood: Clinton Hill
Building Type: Condominium
Fresh off the success of Frame 283 (see above), Frame Home is hard at work on Frame 122 in Clinton Hill. Renderings of the cross laminated timber building show exposed wood ceilings and floors, and it will be sustainably designed to Passive House principles. Construction topped out in November 2023, and completion is estimated for later this year.
Alafia Brooklyn, 875 Erskine Street
Neighborhood: East New York
Building Type: Rental
In the Spring Creek section of Brooklyn, the Alafia development will bring over 2,400 new affordable and supportive housing units to a 28-acre campus that will also include retail, a public school, a health clinic, and an urban farm. The buildings will be designed to Passive House standards and use on-site renewable energy.
96-98 Degraw Street
Neighborhood: Carroll Gardens
Building Type: Townhouse
In the heart of the Columbia Waterfront District, 96 and 98 Degraw Street were meticulously constructed to Passive House standards. The attention to detail carried over to the interiors, which feature lofty living rooms with gas fireplaces, chef’s kitchens, radiant floor heating, and private backyards. Public records show that 98 Degraw Street sold for $3.6 million in March 2024.
702 Hancock Street
Neighborhood: Bedford-Stuyvesant
Building Type: Condominium
Bedford-Stuyvesant has seen no shortage of new boutique condominiums take shape in recent years, but the first one to Passive House standards is located at 702 Hancock Street. Between an airtight building envelope, triple-pane windows, an energy recovery ventilation system, and rooftop solar panels, residents can expect to save a significant amount on energy bills. They will also enjoy high ceilings, white oak hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances and induction cooktops in the kitchens, and deeded storage. Sales launched in spring 2024, and current availabilities start at $750K.
702 Hancock Street, #2A
$895,000 (-5.8%)
Bedford-Stuyvesant | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath | 771 ft2
702 Hancock Street, #2A (Compass)
107 Union Street via CityRealty
107 Union Street
Neighborhood: Carroll Gardens
Building Type: Rental
107 Union Street is a modern rental constructed to Passive House standards and featuring high-efficiency air exchanging and heating/cooling systems. However, this does not come at the expense of luxurious perks and amenities like soaring windows, backyard, roof deck, and garage with electric car charging station.
158 Clifton Place via Paul A. Castrucci Architects
158 Clifton Place
Neighborhood: Clinton Hill
Building Type: Townhouse
158 Clifton Place is a wood frame house dating back to 1915; as a result, when the owners wished to gut-renovate it to Passive House standards, special consideration was required to air seal the building. The renovations included recycled materials and careful inspections to achieve Passive House certification, and a PV solar array brings it to near Net Zero energy capability.
Blue Zees Real Estate LLC
285 Grand Street
Neighborhood: Williamsburg
Building Type: Condominium
285 Grand Street is a 15,000-square-foot project being developed by Blue Zees and Charles Street Capital. The ground-up 4-story luxury condominium will feature just two units and retail on the first floor. David Berridge Architect is listed as the architect of record. Sales launched in February 2020, and the building is now sold out.
Rendering of R-951 via Paul A. Castrucci Architects
R-951 Residence, 951 Pacific Street
Neighborhood: Prospect Heights
Building Type: Condominium
R-951 Residence was New York City's first building to have both Passive House and Net Zero-Ready certifications. The design by Paul A. Castrucci Architects features a solar PV array, a rainwater harvesting system, and a south-facing facade with a dynamic building folding screen, which gives residents control over the solar gain in each home.
Street Smart rendering via ZH Architects
Street Smart, 369 Manhattan Avenue
Neighborhood: Williamsburg
Building Type: Rental
Street Smart, which took shape on the former site of a parking lot, was constructed to Passive House certified to consume 90 percent less energy than a standard code-compliant building typically uses for heating and cooling. The “durable, low-maintenance” building will feature walls with highly-insulated, non-fossil-fuel-based mineral wool, triple-glazed windows optimized for passive solar gains, thermal bridge construction, and high-performance energy recovery ventilation (ERV), which uses to treat the building’s own exhaust energy to pre-heat and pre-cool incoming air from the HVAC system. Construction was completed in December 2023.
210 Pacific Street via Halstead
210 Pacific Street
Neighborhood: Boerum Hill
Building Type: Condominium
Situated in a prime Brooklyn location, this luxury condominium was built to Passive House standards with extensive insulation, triple-glazed windows, an advanced solar hot water system, and individual energy recovery units. Its green approach extends to the amenities, which include an electric vehicle charging system in the enclosed parking garage. The building currently has one full-floor availability asking $5,995,000.
210 Pacific Street, #6 (Compass)
255 Columbia Street
255 Columbia Street
Neighborhood: Carroll Gardens
Building Type: Condominium
The 13-unit condominium at 255 Columbia Street is an early example of how Passive House design principles could be incorporated into multi-family buildings. The seven-story building was designed with an ultra-tight building envelope, an energy-recovering air ventilator system, rooftop solar panels, and two rooftop heat pumps. All units have open layouts, generous storage, and private outdoor space, not to mention air-to-air heat pumps and incredible light through the triple-glazed windows.
Haus via Loadingdock5
Haus, 152 Freeman Street
Neighborhood: Greenpoint
Building Type: Rental
Haus offers high beamed ceilings, private outdoor space for all units, and a common roof deck. But this Brooklyn building's most appealing feature is its Passive House infrastructure. The building envelope is constructed out of a one-sided insulating concrete form with all insulation on the exterior. Haus was designed to prove that a Passive House need not be a budget-busting endeavor, even in New York, and it has succeeded in that regard.
The Mennonite via Chris Benedict
The Mennonite, 424 Melrose Street
Neighborhood: Bushwick
Building Type: Rental
Developed in a joint venture with Ridgewood Bushwick Senior Citizens Council and the United Mennonite Church, this four-story, 24-unit building is wrapped in one of the most energy-efficient envelopes in New York City. It also features 16 thermal solar panels and two small boilers on the roof. According to Brownstoner, it uses only 10 percent of the energy of comparably sized buildings.
Dattner Architects
Chestnut Commons, 3269 Atlantic Avenue
Neighborhood: East New York
Building Type: Rental
Announced in late 2019, Chestnut Commons is a brand new all-affordable building coming to the underserved neighborhood of East New York. Along with 274 units, the new development will also have recreation & social services, a satellite campus for Kingsborough Community College, a performing arts center, a food incubator, and a 2,000-square-foot bank. Dattner Architects was tasked with designing Chestnut Commons to Passive House standards. A housing lottery took place in winter 2022.
Zakrewski + Hyde Architects
852 St. Johns Place
Neighborhood: Crown Heights
Building Type: Condominium
Another project by Zakrewski + Hyde Architects, this Crown Heights 3-story rowhouse is getting a 2-story addition and 7 condo units - all for the same cost per square foot as a standard building. The new air-tight exterior boasts a modern aesthetic of expansive strip windows and dark cladding, and all units feature energy-efficient technology.
Georgica Green Ventures
Our Lady of Lourdes Apartments, 1875 Broadway
Neighborhood: Bushwick
Building Type: Rental
Since 2012 there have been plans to redevelop Bushwick's former Our Lady of Lourdes convent into much-needed affordable and supportive housing. Years later, a lottery took place for 63 new units at the site. It marks the first Passive House project for OCV Architects, whose design includes a total of three buildings (two new), and sustainable features like a rooftop photovoltaic panel system, energy efficient lighting, fixtures, and appliances.
Zambrano Architects
The Wunderhill Townhouses, 22-36 Underhill Avenue
Neighborhood: Prospect Heights
Building Type: Condominium
As stylish and modern as the Wunderhill Townhouses are, the aesthetics do not come at the expense of the environment. The development is no longer aiming for Passive House certification but will employ green roofs and triple-paned windows and doors. These three-story, single-family houses will also have four inches of insulation on the outside and spray insulation on the inside. One unit is available for $2,995,000.
The Wunderhill Townhouses, #TH
$2,995,000
Prospect Heights | Townhouse | 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths | 2,700 ft2
The Wunderhill Townhouses, #TH (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)
Knickerbocker Commons via New York Housing Conference
Knickerbocker Commons, 803 Knickerbocker Avenue
Neighborhood: Bushwick
Building Type: Rental
The six-story, 24-unit Knickerbocker Commons has the distinction of being New York's first affordable multi-family building to be built and designed to Passive House standards. Its environmentally friendly features include a sculpted EIFS facade that optimizes solar gain and shading, replacing the traditional heating system, and low-voltage equipment and water reuse that also decrease energy costs.
174 Grand Street
Neighborhood: Williamsburg
Building Type: Townhouse
174 Grand Street is one of Brooklyn's earliest examples of Passive House construction. The walls' 8" concrete masonry units with 6 inches of EPS exterior insulation, 8" rigid insulation windows, and exterior sun sail on the south facade were key parts of that endeavor. The mixed-use building is well situated near Bedford Avenue, which has become a hip shopping street, and brings a new trend to the area.
Tighthouse via FABRICA 718
Tighthouse, 23 Park Place
Neighborhood: Park Slope
Building Type: Townhouse
Following a renovation, this Park Slope townhouse dating back to 1899 has earned its new name of Tighthouse in all senses of the word. A new rear facade was added to close any gaps in the traditional masonry exterior, an internal staircase with glass panel volumes spreads natural light throughout the home, and a third-floor addition has an angled roof with solar thermal and photovoltaic panels. A heat map showed the stark difference between this townhouse's energy use and that of its neighbors, and it is little wonder this project was the winner of the 2014 International Passive House Design Award.
78 Third Place via John Muggenborg Photography
78 Third Place
Neighborhood: Carroll Gardens
Building Type: Townhouse
78 Third Place demonstrates that Passive House energy efficiency need not come at the expense of classic architecture. An Energy-Recovery Ventilation (ERV) system, high-performance doors, triple-glazed windows, and a solar canopy were incorporated with the utmost respect for historic details. The project earned the blessing of the Landmarks Preservation Commission and green building advocates alike.
THE BRONX:
Rendering of 448 East 143rd Street via Breaking Ground
Betances V, 448 East 143rd Street
Neighborhood: Mott Haven
Building Type: Rental
Betances V was designed by COOKFOX to reduce reliance on energy supplies. The 149 studio through one-bedroom apartments were designed for low-income seniors, as well as those who have experienced homelessness. Indoor and outdoor amenities will include library, common area, terrace garden, and on-site medical and psychiatric care. The design was a winner of a 2023 SARA NY Design Award of Excellence.
Dattner Architects
425 Grand Concourse
Neighborhood: Mott Haven
Building Type: Rental
This 300,000-square-foot development with 277 affordable apartments will use 30% of the energy of a traditional housing development. A highly insulated building envelope will provide the bulk of the energy savings, and it will be supplemented by a vegetated roof deck, solar shading, solar panels, cogen power generation, and an energy recovery system. Construction topped out at the beginning of 2021, and the building opened in November 2022.
Google Earth image of 3365 Third Avenue
3365 Third Avenue
Neighborhood: Morrisania
Building Type: Rental
3365 Third Avenue comprises a community facility space and 30 apartments on floors 2-8. An affordable lottery took place in the summer of 2017 for the apartments, which provide affordable housing across a wide income range (20-90% AMI) and meet Passive House standards. Energy-efficient measures include insulated concrete forms, an airtight building envelope, fiberglass triple-pane windows and energy recovery ventilators.
Curtis + Ginsberg Architects
Park Avenue Green, 2950 Park Avenue
Neighborhood: Mott Haven
Building Type: Rental
Energy efficiency shouldn’t be a luxury amenity, a belief that informed Park Avenue Green. This affordable, 154-unit Bronx building has used several inches of insulation, a special ventilation system, and extra-thick windows to meet the standards of Passive House construction.
Highbridge Vista rendering via Paul A. Castrucci Architects
Fischer Senior Apartments, 97 West 169th Street
Neighborhood: Highbridge
Building Type: Rental
Fischer Senior Apartments is a high-efficiency building offering raised gardening beds, clustered seating and ergonomic benches; well-lit, smooth walking surfaces, and age-friendly exercise equipment. The building features high-performance thermal insulation, rooftop solar panels, solar shading, high performance windows, and energy-efficient ventilation that will provide fresh air comfort and significant savings to residents. Additionally, the use of modular construction is intended to greatly reduce costs and reduce construction time by six months. Construction commenced in September 2023.
Magnusson Architecture and Planning
Creston Parkview, 2519 Creston Avenue
Neighborhood: Fordham
Building Type: Rental
Fordham, a neighborhood transitioning from industrial to residential, is seeing affordable housing in the form of a 12-story building dubbed "Creston Parkview." YIMBY revealed the project will include a 7,300-square-foot community center and 181 below-market rentals, ranging from studios to three-bedrooms. Eco-friendly features will include two green roofs, extra-thick windows, Energy Star appliances, LED lighting, water conserving fixtures, renewable building materials, and a high performance envelope. The lottery took place in fall 2019.
Curtis + Ginsberg Architects
Cyrus House, 4697 Third Avenue
Neighborhood: Fordham
Building Type: Rental
Permits were filed in November 2018 for an 8-story, 53-unit mixed-use building that rose on a vacant parcel on the corner of East 188th Street. The project is entirely affordable and meets Passive House standards by implementing rainwater harvesting, solar panels, and energy-efficient building materials, design, and appliances. A housing lottery took place in spring 2022.
Aimir
746 East 214th Street
Neighborhood: Williamsbridge
Building Type: Rental
In November 2017, developer Propco Holdings announced plans for a ground-up four-story, 10-unit rental at 746 East 214th Street to be designed by Markel Architecture and to meet Passive House standards. An affordable lottery took place in June 2020.
QUEENS:
Tree of Life via Housing Connect
Tree of Life, 89-46 164th Street
Neighborhood: Jamaica
Building Type: Rental
Tree of Life is an affordable housing project constructed to Passive House standards and located a short distance from the Jamaica Center - Parsons/Archer transportation hub. Features like increased insulation, high-performance windows, energy recovery ventilators, and high-efficiency variable refrigerant flow heating and cooling have resulted in a building that produces less carbon emissions and offers a more comfortable experience. Amenities include outdoor green space, bike room, and on-site parking with electric car charging stations.
19-19 Cornaga Avenue via Paul A. Castrucci Architects
19-19 Cornaga Avenue
Neighborhood: Far Rockaway
Building Type: Rental
19-19 Cornaga Avenue is a 60/40 supportive housing building comprising 72 supportive housing units and 20 affordable housing units. The project is designed using Passive House methodology and features a high-efficiency building envelope and mechanical system, heat pumps and through-wall air conditioning, extensive green roofs, and LED lighting.
Rendering via Paul A. Castrucci Architects
Milton P. Browne Community Square, 13-38 Central Avenue
Neighborhood: Far Rockaway
Building Type: Rental
This nine-story Passive House building's thermal envelope, rooftop solar panels, fresh air energy recovery ventilation, and VOC- and asthmagen-free building materials will contribute to greater energy efficiency and higher quality of life. All 239 affordable units will enjoy excellent light and air, and come outfitted with high-efficiency electric appliances. In addition to the apartments, the project will offer a new school and community center as well as a new supermarket in the building's retail space.
Beach Green Dunes via Omni
Beach Green Dunes I and II
Neighborhood: Far Rockaway
Building Type: Rental
One block from the Atlantic Ocean, Beach Green Dunes I and II comprises 228 affordable units reserved for very-low-, low-, and moderate-income households. Innovations in construction include a progressive building envelope, a bio swale garden to treat and retain storm water, solar photovoltaics on the roof, and a geothermal heating/cooling system underground. An affordable lottery for the first phase received more than 50,000 applications for 100 apartments, and a lottery for the second phase took place in spring 2020.
45-12 11th Street via DNAinfo/Jeanmarie Evelly
Climate Change Row House, 45-12 11th Street
Neighborhood: Long Island City
Building Type: Townhouse
The Climate Change Row House is a prime example of how to come back from disaster stronger than before: A year after Superstorm Sandy struck, this townhouse just blocks from the waterfront was renovated with Passive House techniques that included triple-paned windows and twice the typical amount of insulation to prevent air from leaking in or out. All three floors were also raised above flood level.
Rendering of The Crossing at Jamaica Station via FXCollaborative
The Crossing at Jamaica Station, 93-01 Sutphin Boulevard
Neighborhood: Jamaica
Building Type: Rental
This mixed-use development is conveniently located directly across from Jamaica Terminal. Its easy access to public transportation will surely be taken into consideration for LEED Silver certification, as will its construction to Passive House standards, on-site cogeneration plant, water-saving plumbing systems, and green roofs. An affordable lottery took place in early 2020, and a few market-rate availabilities start at $2,600/month.
Think Architecture and Design
HANAC Senior Residence, 54-15 101st Street
Neighborhood: Corona
Building Type: Rental
In spring 2019, U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz were on hand to celebrate the opening of the first affordable senior housing development built to Passive House standards. The eight-story building includes a pre-K, backyard, community rooms, garden, green roof, and services of an on-site social worker.
Rendering of The Oasis via Archimaera
The Oasis, 38-42 12 Street
Neighborhood: Long Island City
Building Type: Commercial
In June 2020, at a time when the Covid pandemic had many designers rethinking office space, the first renderings of The Oasis were unveiled. At 425,000 square feet and 11 stories, it is set to be the largest speculative Passive House office development in the United States. Sustainable features will include a super-insulated building exterior, triple-glazed windows, LED lighting, solar panels, and a green roof. Not only is Passive House construction good for the environment and the wallet (in the form of lower energy bills), but its high-efficiency ventilation system is also good for bringing in outside fresh air. Renderings show the project organized around a center courtyard, and there will be over 30,000 square feet of terraces and outdoor space.
NEW JERSEY GOLD COAST:
Rendering of Candela Lofts via Bijou Properties
Candela Lofts, 1024 Adams Street
Neighborhood: Hoboken
Building Type: Condominium
When a candelabra factory in Hoboken was converted to luxury condos, the developers incorporated high-quality insulation, an air-sealed building envelope, a dedicated ventilation unit for filtered fresh air, and triple-glazed windows into the conversion. Candela Lofts is New Jersey's first multi-family Passive House, and we hope it is the first of many. The demand is clearly there - the building is sold out.
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