Green Condo Coming to South Loop

The blueprints for new condominium/loft development Eco 18 appear to be more "green" than blue. As its name suggests, this 12-story South Loop project (located at 1818 South Wabash) is striving to be an eco-friendly residence - with enough green design elements to qualify it for Gold LEED certification. That's the second highest level of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council to residential structures.

The 93-unit development will incorporate water saving features such as low-flow showerheads, dual-flush toilets, faucets fitted with 0.5 GPM aerators, and front-loading washing machines that use less water. These appliances will decrease water usage by about 35 percent. A rainwater collection tank and specialty watering system will recycle rainwater for irrigation of the building's landscaping, instead of using city drinking water.

Geothermal heating and cooling process, solar thermal hot water system, use of recycled materials, an energy recovery device, a green roof, a location near public transportation, and other sustainable construction methods will all help reduce the carbon footprint left by this innovative, new Chicago condo development.

Eco 18 offers a number of different unit sizes and layouts. Floor plans include one bedroom units to two bedroom + den arrangements. Eco 18 won't be ready for occupancy until late 2009, but already 20% of the units are sold or reserved. Remaining units are priced from the upper $200,000s and onsite garage parking is available.