Better Renovations
+ Retrofits
Photo: Worth Preserving, Germantown NY
“The greenest building is the one that is already built.”
— Carl Elefante, preservation architect
There are over 85 million existing single family houses in America. Roughly 40 million of these homes predate the oil crises of the 1970s, which ushered in a new era of energy-conscious construction, including greater use of insulation and double-pane windows. These old houses comprise the fabric of our neighborhoods, towns and cities. Most are well constructed. Many have elegant architectural details. These are the places that many of us call home. They are worth preserving.
What are the best practices for stewarding existing homes for the future?
How should we prioritize our actions, when undertaking a renovation?
How do we strike a balance between the concerns of historical commissions and the new energy codes that are being enacted?
What is the best way to weatherize a damp fieldstone basement?
In the end, how do we know if we have done a good job?
Documenting real–world renovation projects
Inspired by the understanding that the most sustainable buildings are often those that already exist, Better Renovations & Retrofits grew out of a desire to explore how existing homes can be thoughtfully sustained and improved.
Drawing on the philosophy of the Pretty Good House book, this collection of case studies documents real-world renovation projects, offering practical insights and inspiration.
The geographic scope of this project has been limited to the Northeast, in recognition of the fact that house design and construction is regional in nature - influenced by local climate, culture and building traditions.
Case Studies
This project would not exist if it weren’t for all the talented and committed contributors who expressed enthusiasm for the endeavor and made time in their very busy schedules to collaborate. They are members of a growing network throughout the Northeast.
KEY of PROJECT TYPES
I ENERGY RETROFITS
minor renovations to house
II MODERATE RENOVATIONS
little change to footprint
III EXTENSIVE RENOVATIONS
typically with additions to footprint
*HISTORIC LISTING OR DISTRICT
CONNECTICUT
Click the image to explore the case study
1. Kent | Hudson Valley Preservation Corp.
I
MASSACHUSETTS
2. Guilford | Wolfworks, Inc.
III
3. Medford | Byggmeister Design Build
II
NEW HAMPSHIRE
4. Great Barrington | Rare Forms, Inc.
III
5. Intervale | Garland Mill Design Build
I
NEW YORK
6. Chesterfield | Graphite Studio
II
7. Stone Ridge | North River
III
RHODE ISLAND
8. Germantown | Worth Preserving
III*
VERMONT
9. Providence | Caldwell & Johnson, Inc.
II
10. Bellows Falls | Crofter & Green DIY
III
11. Montpelier | New Frameworks
I
12. Dorset | Sustainable Design
III