Innovative Green Builders Demonstrate the Future of Condo Living
Look no further than Detroit for the next trend in urban living. What’s so special about the 17-unit condo complex slated for construction near Wayne University? How about low-flow plumbing fixtures, tankless water heaters, energy efficient appliances, radiant floor heating, and a special paint that repels radiant heat. And as though all that were not enough, the condos will be constructed from old shipping containers—93 of them to be exact. “The shipping containers will replace the traditional wood framing found in most buildings reducing the cost of materials and labor,” said developer Leslie Horn. “When you’re inside, it will feel just like an ordinary condo.” Clearly, the combination of innovative technology and construction techniques will make it anything but. The Power of Green Housing group is responsible for the project.
(Rendering courtesy of Leslie Horn)
Deborah S. says:
It is this kind of innovative thinking that we need in all walks of life, in all cities, etc. I live in Baltimore and I'm sure we would have some containers to spare since we have a harbor, however Baltimore is doing a lot to become more green and has a new Office of Sustainability. There is also a website www.goforchange.com that is all about positive change happening especially in what we natives call "Charm City".
Gloria L. says:
Yes! I have been thinking of using cargo containers to put on my 36 acres in Arizona.
Including radiant floor heating, tankless water heaters, energy efficient appliances, low-flow
plumbing fixtures , and, where can I find that paint that repels radiant heat? And, of course,
I will be drilling a well and putting in solar and wind for power. Any help or suggestions would be appreciated. Thank you very much. Gloria gloriasynergy@earthlink.net.
Richard B. says:
Sure "Green is good" but Land Prices and Land Costs are the driving force in supposedly "overpriced housing" The cost of land was the driving piece in the Real Estate bubble we see still collapsing around the world.
Gloria L. says:
Land prices: keep looking in the 4 corners area. I bought 36 acres for 32K about 3 years ago.