Lake Bluff Passive House

LAKE BLUFF, IL

Passive House is a model for low-energy, high-quality living, and the Lake Bluff Passive House achieves it with contemporary style. With non-toxic construction and finish materials and a continuous energy-recovery-ventilation system, indoor air quality will be optimized; with efficient lighting, appliances, and mechanical systems along with a super-insulated envelope, comfort is ensured along with low energy consumption. Low-flow water fixtures with a demand-controlled hot water recirculation system keep water use and energy low. The interior features an aging-in-place ground floor bedroom suite, sophisticated handling of natural light, and a feature stair built of reclaimed oak timbers.

Completed
2021

 

General Contractor
Biltmore Homes

 

Structural Engineer
Goodfriend Magruder Structure

 

Third-party Testing and Verification
Eco Achievers

 

Photography
Hausman Photography

 

Energy Use
pEUI = 6, 86% reduction

 

Awards
AIA Chicago, Decarbonization Citation of Merit Award, 2024
“Citation of Merit, TBDA, Lake Bluff Passive House”

 

Press
Homes.com, June 2, 2025, “Absorb this: All-black homes don’t necessarily heat up on the inside”