Eco-Conscious Prairie

First LEED Gold-certified in Glenview

This is an absolutely astonishing home. You’d never guess by looking, but it is also one of the most eco-conscious prairie style homes. It was very important to the homeowners to incorporate a number of sophisticated green technologies – while still creating a beautiful and comfortable home tailored to one-level living.

To date, this home boasts the most geothermal energy heat pumps of any house we have done, maximizing the renewable energy for heating and cooling using the Earth. In addition to thoughtful, drought-resistant landscaping, rainwater is harvested by two gigantic, below-ground Xerxes tanks. These tanks store water that can readily be reclaimed for irrigation. Solar panels are tucked on the roof where they can’t be seen. In addition to the sustainability benefits, these elements have been fitted with high tech controls, putting their power in the hands of the homeowner. All this effort was rewarded with a major accomplishment in green building practices – the first-ever LEED Gold certification granted in Glenview.

This 9,700 square foot transitional prairie style home includes unique materials and construction techniques that deliver ever-unfolding and stunning spaces. The staircase was a first of its kind for us, where we used cabinet-quality construction and fine joinery on a series of handcrafted boxes to create a special aesthetic. The flooring is character-grade reclaimed lumber harvested from barns.

Prairie Style Homes: Indoor-Outdoor Living

The indoor and outdoor spaces have a special connection in this home. Transoms and an inner courtyard flood circulation spaces with natural light. Rock adorns the majority of interior walls. Wood graces dramatic sunroom and office ceilings. The outdoor kitchen and fireplace feel like part of the main living areas.

The interplay of natural resources and natural beauty really makes this a special among prairie style homes.

Architect: Morgante-Wilson

Interiors: James Thomas Interiors

Landscape: Kettelkamp & Kettelkamp

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