Building a highly sophisticated, environmentally-sensitive home.

The original homeowners’ plan was an extensive renovation to an existing residence in Wilmette. After the in-depth collaboration, it was decided that new construction would allow us to better capitalize on emerging green technologies, a high priority for the homeowners.

The expertise required to properly source and install the green technologies for this unique, environmentally sensitive home was extensive – but absolutely worth it.

Future-forward, cost-saving and eco-conscious technologies in the home are numerous:

• Net meter system, through which excess energy can be sold back to the electric company.
• 8,000 kW of photovoltaic cells (solar panels) to heat home’s floors through a radiant system and to heat the home’s water
• Green roof located over the garage
• The FIRST rainwater harvest system to be installed in the Village of Wilmette – an 8,000-gallon tank under the driveway
• Rain garden in the backyard as part of the stormwater management system
• Landscaping with drought-resistant trees and grasses
• Low VOC water-based urethane used to seal concrete basement floor and low VOC finishes throughout.

Reclaimed and eco-conscious home materials

We took every opportunity to add warmth, personal touches, and surprises throughout:

• Kitchen countertop made from PaperStone-a post-consumer, the recycled paper surface held together with petrolatum-free resins
• Gabian benches, traditionally used for erosion control. The bricks used in the benches were recycled from the original brick home on the site.
• Fireplace mantles created from trees that had to be removed from the property prior to construction
• 1,500 s.f. of Villeroy & Boch tile sourced for reuse from a local convent that was converted into condominiums
• Grade school gymnasium floor recycled and used for children’s basement playroom
• 4” thick reclaimed maple stair treads made from salvaged timbers from the historic Simmons Furniture Factory in New London, Wisconsin
• Shelving in the living room was built by Amish cabinetmakers, Lambright Woodworking, using reclaimed walnut
• Exterior siding from recycled pickle barrels
• Recycled barn wood used throughout for closet doors and cabinetry
• Decorative beams, hardwood flooring originated from timbers from the Thomas Edison factory in New London, Wisconsin
• Stone for the fireplaces was locally sourced through Chilton Stone from Sussex, Wisconsin

Interior Design: Scott Simpson Design + Build

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