20 affordable apartments, undergoing a deep energy retrofit and targeting net zero energy.

OVERVIEW.  The Robert C. Weaver Apartments contains 20 units of affordable dwelling units in a low-rise building managed and maintained by the Cambridge Housing Authority.

THE EXISTING BUILDING.  This three story wood frame and masonry building with 9 efficiency units and 11 one bedroom units was originally constructed in 1930, then converted into affordable housing in 1973. Per a capital needs assessment, it was clear that a number of building attributes were approaching the end of their useful lifespan.

DEEP ENERGY RETROFIT GOAL.  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

ENVELOPE & SYSTEMS IMPROVEMENTS. 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.

SERVICES: GREEN ARCHITECTURE

IMAGE GALLERy
 

DESIGN BASICS

Square Footage: 15,000
Dwelling Units: 20
Status: Study Phase

ENERGY

Super-Insulation (planned)
Solar Electric System (planned)
Net Zero Energy (target)
Zero Fossil Fuel On-Site (target)

PROJECT TEAM

ZeroEnergy Design
Architecture
Petersen Engineering
MEP/FP Engineer
Cambridge Housing Authority
Owner/ Manager
Eric Roth Photography
Photos