The Concept

We use the phrase “Geocology” as a description and a concept of the Future Green Chatham homes. As a combination of “Geo”, or Earth, and "Ecology", the term defines a global approach to understanding ecology. Future Green Chatham homes are on the forefront of the current ecologically-responsible movement, commonly called “Green”. These homes employ state-of-the-art technology and renewable/recyclable materials and building processes in concert with proven energy-saving design. They proudly join the ranks of the City of Chicago's first green-certified, single-family home construction projects.

Home construction, maintenance and residence make up more than 38% of America’s total energy expenditure. Additionally, the intensive use of traditional building materials and means of disposal makes up the bulk of landfill waste. Their components have been cited as major contributors to pollution of the water table and deposition of heavy metals and salts, damaging an already stressed environment. By finding ways to exercise responsibility in building, maintenance, and landscaping, we lighten the load our environment must assume because . Taking action now can provide the greatest impact in lessening America’s need for dwindling supplies of fossil fuels and other non-renewable resources.

The homes are built in accordance with the Chicago standard, a set of 46 building practices and technologies which align with the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) rating system for energy efficiency and design. The Standard’s requirements, among others, dictate responsible waste disposal, and constant monitoring of construction's impact on the surrounding area.The emphasis is on the cooperative integration of structures into the existing communities where built. Preservation and enhancement of an area focuses the intent to harmoniously blend the old and new. The homes' design must include provisions for maximizing energy efficiency and reducing production of ozone-depleting materials. These houses qualify for inclusion in the City of Chicago’s Green Permit Certification program, and will be presented for EnergyStar certification. Additionally, these homes qualify for the Energy Efficient Mortgage program offered by selected banks in Chicagoland.

The History

Three blocks of little houses, between 80 and 82nd and King Drive, and between 81st and 82nd and Calumet, are in the heart of Chatham. They were the beginning of a project of the 1920's designed by architect Richard Cramer. His project built small “Garlows”, or "Garage Bungalows” on the rear of the lots. As the owners became more prosperous, larger houses could be built in front. The Garlows would then be converted to garages. These "starter homes" were built to ease the path to home ownership, and were designed to fill society’s needs. Considerable interest in the architectural community in Cramer’s project resulted in an earlier series of articles in the Sun-Times. It has been suggested that these Garlows, the largest concentration of which is represented by the 3 blocks in Chatham, may be the largest collection in Chicago. In an earlier segment of WTTW’s “Chicago Tonight”, the Garlow story was brought to Chicago’s attention as a significant piece of Chicago history. Mr. Cramer’s initial project is brought to completion in the 21st century, with these creatively and intelligently designed houses.

For more information please contact Future Green Chatham project.