Press: Chicago Architect
LEED Multi-Generational Living in Pilsen
While baby boomers are relocating back to cities in retirement, many urban-dwelling retirees are choos- ing to live their golden years among family. Multi-generational housing is a solution for many seniors and their families — grandparents can help with child care and the entire family can ensure elders are safe and mobile. In Pilsen, one family decided that, after many years of living down the street from grandpar- ents, it was time to integrate their households into a multi-unit intergenerational home.
Canopy Architecture + Design, known for its collaborative work with clients in Pilsen and Little Village, was brought on to design a new, three-unit residence and restore the neighboring historic two-flat — all meeting LEED standards.
“The owner came to us first at the start of [the] project knowing we had already completed a couple of other LEED projects in the neighborhood,” commented Jaime Torres, AIA, principal and founder of Canopy. “They’re big nature lovers, they grow fruits and vegetables in their backyard, and love to entertain family and friends often.”
According to Torres, the family also advocates for architecture and energy efficiency, but also desired to spend more time with their older parents. “They put all these priorities together and we began discussing a LEED multi-generational project; truly a dream commission,” commented Torres.
