EcoUrban: Building Sustainable Solutions

Visionary Clients select EcoUrban to develop LEED Registered Modular Construction to Feature Solar & Geothermal

2011-09-12T15:21:00.005-05:00

This week EcoUrban will break ground on the LEED for Homes registered Carlsson Residence at 6153 Pershing in Historic Skinker-Debaliviere Neighborhood.

This sustainable residential solution is being developed in partnership with Blue Brick Construction, Homeway Homes, Hoffman Brothers, Microgrid, Superior Walls, Mwanzi Green Building Supply and ASERusa.

Here is a hit list of the features:

- 2,176 square feet with 3 bed / 2.5 bath and first floor den/office/bedroom flex room.

- LEED for Homes Registered - Tracking Platinum designation / Preliminary HERS score of 49 with ASERusa serving as our energy modeler and LEED rater.

- 3 ton geothermal heating / cooling with (3) 200' vertical loops from Hoffmann Brothers Heating & Cooling with Aprilaire ERV and tankless hot water.

- Solar prewire conduit from Homeway Homes for easy install of Microgrid Energy's SolarWorld 250 3 kw solar off-grid power producing 3,873 kWh annually or roughly 50% of the home's power!

- Modular 2x6 construction with hybrid foam/batt R24 wall insulation / Low-E Energy Plus windows from Quaker Windows with a White TPO "cool" rubber roof constructed by Homeway Homes.

- Superior Walls precast foundation system with built-in R-12.5 insulation and ready-to-build out for future lower level space.

- Masonry, stucco and corrugated metal exterior siding for a modern look that fits into the neighborhood.

- 2-car garage / native landscaping

- Estimated completion date of 11/15/11

EcoUrban: Building Sustainable Solutions
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Great Opportunity to Learn about the State of Construction & Demolition Recycling in St. Louis

2011-06-17T10:46:00.001-05:00

Getting tired of trips to the dumpster and landfill? Think there must be a better way to manage all the construction and demolition waste you face on job sites? Well...then you should join EcoUrban next Wednesday for a deeper look at the current situation and what can be done to increase landfill diversion and developing opportunities for profiting from construction waste.

The St. Louis Region and the Midwest are blessed with much open space, which means that it is easy to overlook where our generated residential and commercial waste ends up. Our landfill tipping fees, i.e. “the cost to dump”, are relatively low compared to other parts of the United States as a result of the abundance of landfill areas. Many consumers, businesses and contractors think nothing of throwing things “away and out of sight.” However, it is not environmentally responsible to dispose of items that could be salvaged, recycled or reused. It is also irresponsible to think of our landfill space as unlimited. One day there will not be an “away” for our waste disposal.

With support from St. Louis Jefferson Solid Waste Management, USGBC-Missouri Gateway Chapter, ReSource St. Louis and Missouri Enterprise have partnered to address the need to better understand C&D waste resources in the St. Louis area and build a business case for increasing waste reduction with the ultimate goal of reducing waste in our landfills and preserving the environment for future generations.

Join us for a free educational seminar on the State of Construction & Demolition Recycling in St. Louis.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Acquire a comprehensive background on the present “lay of the landfill” as it relates to common and existing practices for dealing with C&D end of project materials.

Identify current best alternative practices for dealing with C&D materials in the greater St. Louis area, encouraging a shift away from current dead-end strategies.

Examine the recycling needs of the building community, as they relate to LEED requirements and personal best choices.

Capture and expand upon possible business case options as they relate to LEED requirements and personal best choices.

Explore barriers to C& D recycling, dispelling the myths and offering sound metrics to encourage an embracing of recycling as opposed to dumping.

Recognize national case studies of technologies and approaches already in place elsewhere which provide significant monetary and environmental savings to communities and states.

Thanks to the Project Team who managed the focus groups and developed the C&D Toolkit and this Education Session!

Gary Steps – Butterfly Energy Works – Instructor

Jay Swoboda – EcoUrban – Instructor

Jen Loui – Butterfly Energy Works – Project Manager

WHEN

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

3:30 – 5:30 pm

WHERE

6301 Knox Industrial Drive (63139), Second Floor Assembly Room

FEE

Free!

REGISTER

Online on the AGC-St. Louis website:

http://events.agcstl.org/iMISPublic/Core/Events/eventdetails.aspx?iKey=062211GRE

What's Next: Middle Class Green or Small Homes?

2011-01-26T14:52:00.001-06:00

Check out the link below that discusses some real world green prefab buyers from "Prefabulous + Sustainable" by Sheri Koones...a book EcoUrban was featured in from 2010 - with a pretty snazzy forward by none other than, Mr. Robert Redford. I read the USA Today article, and had to wonder: Is EcoUrban just building green for the middle class?

http://www.usatoday.com/printedition/money/20110117/modularhomes17_cv.art.htm

To date, all of the homes built by EcoUrban have sold for under $180,000 (which doesn't exactly leave much room for profit margin on our 1600 square foot homes) and recently we partnered up with some local community development organizations to build 8 homes with a $96,250 mortgage after a ton of subsidy from HUD and a local housing trust fund.

We spend a lot of time & effort pushing for affordable new construction green as something that everyone can own, but the fact is that without subsidy we've got a non-sustainable business model. How do we compete? I've learned that to walk-away from new construction projects with the hybrid modular/site work model we've developed with a 15% profit - that we need to sell the final product with land for $140 per square foot - or $225,000 for a 1,500 square foot home. Sadly, this number just isn't supported in our region with so much affordable historic homes and distressed properties. On the other hand, show this number to someone in California and I tend to think these homes would be flying off the shelf.

So, what gives? Maybe we just need to educate consumers more that new construction, energy-efficient intelligently designed 1,500 square foot homes for $225,000 is a freakin' great deal! Sure you can buy a historic shell for $2,000 and spend $150,000 (if you can find a 203K lender in the mood) re-creating a home in some of our amazing historic neighborhoods - it has been done and continues. Seriously though, why spend over a year banging your head against the wall to live with uninsulated brick walls (or losing space to furred-out insulated walls) if the sustainable new construction option is within reach and takes less than 4 months? I just don't see how EcoUrban's model can compete if buyers are willing to accept inefficient charm over sustainable efficiency...moving on!

So, if I can beat 'em at the historic vs. new homes game what about creating a new market? I've been obsessed the with idea of pushing our buyers to accept smaller footprint homes - something that national trends toward smaller homes just don't seem to support yet. It seems buyers with limited budgets still want all the features - so, perhaps the opportunity is there. I've always wanted to explore EcoUrban getting into the backyard cottage or ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) market, but wasn't sure there would be a customer base. Can you imagine EcoUrban developing something similiar to the following as a solution to that constant challenge for extra square footage, home office, or an easy rental addition? If I could develop a model that puts a 576 square foot rental unit on top of a 2-car garage for $75,000 - is there a business?

Check out the following links of small footprint homes and let me know if I'm crazy:

http://tinyhouseblog.com/pre-fab/clayton-i-house/

http://www.moderncabana.com/MC_main.html

http://www.rocioromero.com/

http://gliving.com/trouble-free-prehab-from-zenkaya/

http://michellekaufmann.com/2010/08/launch-of-new-designs/

Lots of great ideas...but is St. Louis ready? We shall see...

EcoUrban 3.0: Building Sustainable Solutions Kicks Ass

2011-01-25T09:51:00.007-06:00

Reboot. EcoUrban 3.0.

It has been a long and bumpy road from idea to execution, but I think we've finally found EcoUrban's sweet spot. Having pioneered infill green-certified housing over the past 5 years with our first homes changing owners for the first time, we have found a way to keep the lights on and continue to push residential housing toward a more affordable and efficient future.

In September 2010, Nate Forst headed west to pursue his MBA at Portland State University with a focus on sustainability and all reports to date have been encouraging and while the office is much emptier we wish him the very best.

Over the years, we have learned that we excel in the conception, promotion and execution of authentic green solutions to residential, commerical and regional challenges. We've learned to be better partners & collaborators where we lack necessary skill sets. And we believe, that EcoUrban has a lot more to offer our clients than well-built energy-efficient dwellings. We also have learned that we have a lot to learn!

Yes, EcoUrban will continue to offer a range of historic & modern construction design services including residential, commercial and prefabricated design, but our services are being expanded to incorporate new opportunities.

Currently, our to-do list is focused on a sustainable consulting project where we were awarded the Regional Construction & Demolition Waste Research & Education project that we've partnered with Butterfly Energy Works & USGBC-Missouri Gateway Chapter to deliver in-depth research, focus groups and on web-friendly online toolkit to educate our region about the opportunities for increased construction waste diversion.

We launched Sprout to activate dated or soon to be vacant commerical space in need of focused tenant solutions. This works allows us to engage entrepreneurs and small businesses in specific fields seeking a collaborative office environment with building owners in need of energized new tenants. Look for the development of a creative/media focused Sprout, as well as another Sprout focused on community development, architecture and artists.

We continue to believe that making green building affordable to all is our long-term goal and common thread, and to this end, we plan to continue to seek out multi-family rental opportunities across the region, affordable housing developments in urban and rural areas with a focus on access to public transit and developing walkable neighborhoods.

I'm hopeful that you'll continue to tell your network of family, friends and collegues about our efforts and services and with your support we'll be able to continue our efforts to build sustainable solutions!

Best,

Jemal Swoboda, Project Manager
EcoUrban: Building Sustainable Solutions
http://www.ecourbanstl.com/
314-231-0400 ext. 4
314-662-0392 (cell)
jay@ecourbanstl.com

South City SIPS!

2010-06-21T14:54:00.007-05:00

Take a walk over to 4268 Hartford (intersection of Hartford and Morganford) in the Tower Grove South Neighborhood and check out the greenest residential project going in STL. EcoUrban is proud to have worked with Blue Brick Construction to envision a unique home made of Structurally Insulated Panels (SIPS). The technology pairs traditional building materials with up to 9.5 inches of foam insulation that is structurally sound and provides an the equivalent of R30 insulation value. Basically, it's the same line of thinking that allows you to hold a 180-degree cup of coffee in a foam cup that's 1/8 of inch thick without feeling the heat. The owners of 4268 will soon be enjoying some of the most efficient construction offered anywhere. Easy on the environment, and easy on the monthly bills. If you're over near Morganford Ave, stop on in and check out progress. It's a quick walk over from the Cup games you're undoubtedly enjoying at the Amsterdam Tavern. When finished, the owners will pursue a LEED Platinum rating for this home!

Pre-Regeneration Regeneration

2009-12-10T16:15:00.011-06:00

Lots of NorthSide talk these days. Lots.

Even if you do, in fact, live under a rock in the St. Louis region, I'm willing to bet you still have an opinion about the proposed changes afoot in North St. Louis.

I've participated in, heard, and seen (online) enough discussion to realize that if ever something could be considered the definition of "lightning rod" for our region, it is this proposed development. No conversation on this matter, it seems, is complete until it has devolved into a series of cliches rehashing much of the bitterness, divisiveness, and acrimony that have marred our region's (and so many others, to be fair) cultural landscape for as long as anyone can remember.

This is good.

Not the name-calling and related bluster, but the fact that many of us are actually engaging with folks we normally wouldn't. Sure, a lot of it is online and anonymous, but a lot isn't. Many different individuals, City and County, Big Developer and grassroots rehabber, Northsider and Southsider and yes, Black and White are sitting down at the same proverbial table to discuss this. Isn't that one of the things that's supposed to make a city great?

You've heard it all before: St. Louis is full of walls. Walls between neighborhoods, wards, municipalities, high schools, races, the list goes on and on. But right now, while the discussion is undoubtedly ugly... at least it's happening. And maybe it's catharsis...

Because while I'm not sure the North Side project will succeed, I am positive it will fail unless we continue the dialogue, and continue working to ensure that all of us have a role in the regeneration.

Coming Soon: Actual EcoUrban news!

EcoUrban 2.0

2009-08-05T12:33:00.016-05:00

Lately we've been looking into some pretty exciting green multi-family housing developments. They have the potential to be pretty transformative, but given the current economic climate it's definitely going to take continued time/hard work to get things going. We'll keep you updated as we move forward.

In the meantime, we've also been working with the very talented architects over at Ebersoldt + Underwood to reimagine our 1-story homes. What they've come up with is, IMHO, awesome.

One of our biggest challenges has been balancing forward-thinking architecture with demand (and a city) that leans towards a more traditional approach. It's a tough row to hoe, because you need to push the design while still addressing context. No one's really been able to pull it off here, and we all know brick facades with vinyl siding ain't gonna cut it.

I think E + U nailed it:

Ameren Joins the Party

2009-07-28T16:34:00.013-05:00

Well, better late than never.

Yesterday, Ameren UE announced that it was going to offer incentives to Green Developers. While obviously benefiting commercial developers more than folks like us, it is definitely a step in the right direction.

This comes on the heels of an announcement earlier this month regarding several residential energy efficiency programs to help customers manage their energy usage.

Glad these guys are finally getting on board (I'm sure national politics has nothing to do with it). I just hope some of the other folks that got there first left them some cheese and crackers.

Next up: Ameren plans to redevelop their "website" into something that doesn't look like it was created by the Venezuelan ministry of information!

We'll keep you posted...

So What Do You Want to Do Now?

2009-07-17T16:55:00.012-05:00

Midsummer'09. A brief lull in the action. A good time to take stock of where we are/how far we've come.

1st Round of EcoUrban Homes: sold

Lessons learned: thousands

Prime Inspiration: closed

Status of the real estate market: next question

Single-family projects in the near future: yes

Multi-family projects in the future: hopefully

Siamese Fighting Fish inherited: 2

Beards shaved: 1

Mustaches grown: 2

Possible directions in which to head: myriad.

In the coming weeks, we'll be updating this blog with more regularity. There is much to discuss, and a lot's changed since we started. We have a lot of opportunities and ideas on the table. Here's to charting a path forward with your help.

** Pictured: hitherto unreleased "retro" EcoUrban logo, circa 2005. Unreleased for obvious reasons.

Old North House Tour

2009-05-06T15:52:00.002-05:00

If you're in St. Louis, be sure to check out the Old North House Tour this Saturday May 9th. The fun kicks off at 10am and continues until 4pm.

For those of you who have been living under a rock for the past few years, Old North is an amazing example of how purposeful collaboration can revitalize and reinvigorate our historical neighborhoods.

Come and see how just how much progress has been made at and around Crown Square!

Click here for more info.

Affordable LEED Platinum

2008-10-14T13:15:00.006-05:00

As sad as it may be to see the first home I ever built be sold...I've decided that 3140 Pennsylvania's days as a display home of affordable green home building are winding down. So, for all you green building lovers and those willing to subject yourself to lower utility bills and ultra-healthy indoor air quality then for the BARGAIN price of $205,000 I will hand over the keys to the 10th LEED for Homes Platinum certified residence in the United States - right here in St. Louis!

YouTube Promo

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yaUTH9g_mUE

Online Photos

http://www.ecourbanhomes.com/featuredhomes.html

Call me for a tour anytime at 314.922.4357 and start saving energy before the cold months have time to send your gas bill through your roof. JS

EcoUrban First Unit SOLD!!!

2008-09-27T17:39:00.001-05:00

Well, we here at EcoUrban have been peddling our green homes and communities for a couple of years and can finally answer the question of "How many have you sold?" with a bit more confidence after the sale of 3105 Magnolia on September 26th to two young attorneys who moved from a loft downtown. The owners were able to get a great deal thanks to the pleasant state of the real estate market and I am confident they will see a solid return on their urban, green investment - especially when we finalize the LEED for Homes certification upon the completion of the attached townhome at 3103 Magnolia.

In addition to the future value the owners will hopefully realize as the market improves...they will immediately see HUGE monthly savings with their 14 SEER high-performance heat pump, EnergyStar windows and appliances all on top of 2x6 modular construction with icynene foam insulation.

If you are feeling a bit jealous...there are still two existing EcoUrban homes available. Next door to our first sale is a mirrored floor plan with solid Grass Elements bamboo, stainless steel EnergyStar appliance and an opportunity to improve the HVAC efficiency with a higher performing heat pump (still to be installed) all for $179,900. And if living in a LEED for Homes Platinum certified home (The 10th in the country) seems intriguing our display home is still available for $209,900 and I can provide documentation of over $290K in disbursements related to the building and development of this awesome 1900 sqare foot home with 3 beds, 2.5 baths, Varenna kitchen, bamboo throughout, native landscaping and a 2-car garage. Our loss...is your gain!

Thanks for all the support and interest and I look forward to building on the success of our first sale!

Jay

Magnolia Townhomes Completed in Tower Grove East!!!

2008-06-04T15:10:00.011-05:00

The west or inside unit is under contract but we are still seeking a committed green home owner for the east or outside unit with the larger yard.

Priced at $184,900 with up to 3% towards closing costs and prepaids.

2 Bedrooms / 2.5 Baths

1600 square feet

LEED for Homes Registered

Change

2008-05-12T17:33:00.007-05:00

I've heard a lot of discussion about a tipping point with regard to how/when people will REALLY start to change their habits and embrace a total shift in the way we conduct our lives on a daily basis. The fact is, I don't think it is that simple. While I understand the desire to want to see the green movement as a revolution, in truth it is more of an evolution. Slow, deliberate change and improvement over time mark this movement towards a healthier more efficient lifestyle. We have been marching towards greener lifestyles for some time now.

That said, there will be moments of punctuated change -- a time where the process speeds up. Judging from Friday's headlines, I think we are about to enter one of those periods.

Gas Prices Rattle Americans

World Begins to Smart from Oil's Too Rapid Rise

Let the Urban Migration begin...

Greenest Day of the Year

2008-04-22T17:27:00.008-05:00

Green means many different things to many different people. On Earth Day, it's all about the environment. We were lucky enough to have the opportunity to celebrate Earth Day in Forest Park this weekend, as EcoUrban set up a table to inform/educate about our approach to green building. It was a great way to spend a sunny spring day in the park.

Talking to all kinds of folks to this end was great. More and more, I am blown away by the amount of information the average St. Louis citizen has when it comes to sustainable building. The change in the kind of questions we get the last six months has been staggering -- this town is very savvy when it comes to green and it's only getting better. Green is here to stay and I'm proud to be a part of it.

This week is a great time to think of little things you can do to green up your house and neighborhood. Every bit helps, even if it's something as simple as declining that plastic bag or reminding your local deli about recycling.

The Longest Winter

2008-03-26T17:10:00.004-05:00

While St. Louis struggled through what seemed to be the longest winter in recorded history, EcoUrban took some time to put the finishing touches on our Magnolia Townhomes. As you can see, they feature a historic exterior and warm, inviting interior finishes.

Our parent company, Brady Capital, just sold an excellent rehab next door, and 4 new homes are slated to be built just two houses down the street from our townhomes. Things are really looking up for the Tower Grove East Neighborhood thanks in no small part to the work of Alderwoman Kacie Starr Tripplett who really helped our cause by replacing sidewalks around our townhomes.

These are available now so be sure to drop us a line if you want to live green on a great corner just a few minutes walk from South Grand.

Starting the New Year with a BANG!!!

2008-01-11T16:04:00.001-06:00

Our LEED for Homes Platinum dwelling @ 3140 Pennsylvania finally got the facelift we had been planning for several months with the installation of recycled aluminum cladding over the cedar battons. It was time we figured to quiet the detractors and to prove that contemporay modern design can be a quality addition to a traditionally historic neighborhood. Local contractor Mike Solomon put the cladding from Foreman Fabricators on over the past few days...and I can tell you the number of drive-bys applying their brakes has increased 10-fold.

Just a slight improvement...

Also, check out the great press we received from Louis @ Show-Me St. Louis:

http://www.ksdk.com/news/news_article.aspx?storyid=138016

Have a great start to the year and be sure to check out the updates to our display and our two historic homes @ 3103 & 3105 Magnolia.

Cheers,

Jay

EcoUrban Homes Named as Local Green Giant

2007-12-31T12:31:00.000-06:00

EcoUrban Homes Named as Local Green Giant by St. Louis Magazine...below Nate Forst and I are looking pretty good - I mean who wouldn't buy a home from THESE guys...

And our LEED for Homes Platinum project in Benton Park West was featured as well:

Check out the interior shots and green features...

Thanks St. Louis Magazine, Steve Schenkenberg, Susan Jackson and Dilip Vishwanat for your great work and for your commitment to educating the community and your promotion of green!

Happy New Year and here is to a GREEN 2008!

Jay, Nate and Amos
EcoUrban Homes

The Lazy Environmentalist Rules

2007-11-29T18:18:00.000-06:00

Just the other day , I was fortunate enough to be interviewed by Josh Dorfman, AKA the Lazy Environmentalist . Josh is a great guy who is fostering a pragmatic and insightful approach to green living based on the notion that in order for green to become mainstream, it has to be something regular folks can get on board with.

The Lazy Environmentalist
"No guilt-trips. Never any sacrifice. Josh introduces listeners to cutting-edge, eco-friendly products and services and features interviews with the designers, entrepreneurs and visionaries who are demonstrating how many of today's best choices are green choices."

You can check out the interview in mp3 format here:

Part I - 11 minutes

Part II - 11 minutes

Enjoy and be sure to check out Josh's show everyday on Sirius-

Jay

Greenbuild 2007 -- An Aside

2007-11-16T12:54:00.000-06:00

Hey all:

We were fortunate enough to attend Greenbuild 2007, the world's largest green building convention. After making the trip up to Chicago, we quickly made friends with some like-minded green folks and were treated to some excellent hospitality, Portland style, at the PDX Lounge.

The exhibit hall was quite a scene and we learned a lot while making great connections. The glut of new green technology was nothing short of amazing, and it was wild to see over 20,000 strong supporting the cause at the McCormick Center.

We received a lot of positive feedback for getting the first LEED Platinum home in the Midwest, and really enjoyed talking to people from around the world who are bringing green building to the forefront.

Standing in the middle of that ocean of people, one could really get the sense that the "green revolution" was reaching the mainstream. Got to keep spreading the word...

The Latest

2007-10-24T12:42:00.000-05:00

News of the Platinum Certification has really helped us get the word out there, and we have been receiving a lot of interest lately - especially from other developers and investors interested in single and mulit-family green rental units.

We're currently looking into some interesting projects -- as there has been a lot going on in the green community both in STL and beyond.

Thanks also to all of you out there who have been talking us up.

I wanted to give a shout out to one of the best modern/green sites out there: Jetson Green
You have to check out this resource if you are at all interested in the modern/green movement.

Also, check out our friends over at Low Impact Living. They are doing great work and are invaluable to websurfers seeking to "go green" in their daily lives.

Last but not least, I took this as a very good harbinger: Buffet bets on prefab homes.

Platinum, Baby!

2007-09-27T15:25:00.000-05:00

More big news, folks.

Just heard from the USGBC: 3140 Pennsylvania is LEED for Homes Certified Platinum! Just the 10th Platinum residence in the country, and the FIRST home of any level in Missurah.

Man I wish I had time to celebrate...

EcoWeekend

2007-09-24T15:14:00.000-05:00

It's going to be a busy weekend.

The next two EcoUrban units will be arriving at 3103 and 3105 Magnolia on Friday, and all are welcome to come and see the process -- it's really cool watching the houses get hoisted into place. The cranes should begin rolling around 8:00am and wrap up sometime around noon. Bring a sack lunch (or breakfast) and check it out.

In addition, the display at 3140 Pennsylvania is going to be "on tour" at the 6th annual EarthWays Green Homes House Tour:

And the good folks of Benton Park West are also presenting a house tour that will include our display home. The tour will embark from the Five Star Senior Center at 2832 Arsenal from 1pm to 4pm this Sunday September 30th.

So come on down folks and enjoy some EcoUrban good times.

Beyond Efficient...

2007-09-17T10:22:00.001-05:00

Okay, so we knew our homes would be REALLY efficient.

But this is unreal.

Ladies and Gentleman, the actual August bill for our display home! We were hoping to average $75 a month at the display home but to hit $65 for the second hottest month this year in St. Louis?

Truly awesome.

Lots! Lots!

2007-08-31T15:54:00.000-05:00

As of this posting folks, we have 4 serious couples (and a quite few more in the pipeline) who want to buy an EcoUrban Home.

When I say serious, I mean serious.

Naturally, they want to build on a great lot that meets their specifications.

So... we need to find lots. Anybody out there with lots in Tower Grove, Benton Park, Lindenwood Park, St. Louis Hills, Maplewood, Kirkwood, U.City, Dogtown, CWE or similar 'hoods:

HOLLER!
314-662-0392

Green Summer

2007-08-24T11:13:00.000-05:00

It's been a wild ride these last few months. From our grand opening and other events at the display home, to conceptualizing and planning for the arrival of our next two homes at 3103 and 3105 Magnolia, there has been little time to step back and collect my thoughts. So... with that in mind:

7 Lessons Learned this Green Summer:

1. Everyone loves the interior of the display at 3140 Pennsylvania

2. Not everyone is ready for modern design

3. Our level of efficiency is **even better** than we expected -- $70 per month!

4. I am an eternal optimist (when it comes to budgets)

5. SONOS rules!

6. People get really bored when I talk about insulation

7. And finally... if you build it....

Thanks to everyone -- friends, family, and new friends -- who came by to support/check out/learn about/potentially buy(!) an EcoUrban home. As of this post we are getting VERY close with a number of really cool folks. Who will be the first to EcoUrbanite in the Lou??? Stay tuned...

Below are some renderings of what our Magnolia Townhomes will look like... enjoy!

Interior Shots of 3140 Pennsylvania

2007-06-15T18:07:00.000-05:00

BEAUTIFUL, CLASSY AND ENERGY-EFFICIENT HOMES.

Images from EcoUrban Grand Opening

2007-06-08T17:46:00.000-05:00

Over 150 people joined us and Mayor Francis G. Slay on the hottest day of the year to celebrate the opening of EcoUrban's first home built in Benton Park West at 3140 Pennsylvania - St. Louis hottest green address. While the home took less than a month to build, from concept to reality more than 2 years of work was on display. We were overwhelmed with how well our first home came together and while we already have a list of planned improvements - Version 1.0 is a home to be proud of.

Now we just need some folks to buy this home (which is just the 6th LEED-Platinum home in the country) or to buy our home and build it on one of our 14 lots or on land anywhere they can imagine.

See images from the event at:

http://flickr.com/photos/urbanreviewstl/sets/72157600325733244/

Images from Steve Patterson of http://urbanreviewstl.com/

Project Manager Jay Swoboda with Mayor Francis G. Slay at Opening.

EcoUrban Homes Grand Opening - June 7th, 2007

2007-06-01T13:14:00.000-05:00

Please join EcoUrban Homes, The Honorable Francis G. Slay, Mayor of St. Louis, Alderman Kenneth Ortmann, Alderwoman Kacie Tripplett as we usher in a new era of green construction in St. Louis.

Help us celebrate the completion of Missouri’s first precision built, LEED-registered home at our Grand Opening Celebration to be held June 7, 2007 from 5:00pm – 8:00pm at 3140 Pennsylvania Avenue in the Benton Park West Neighborhood of South St. Louis.

We are proud to offer a first look at the results of the EcoUrban construction philosophy-- green homes that combine great design with an unparalleled commitment to health and sustainable construction.

At EcoUrban, we incorporate an environmental program that is among the most comprehensive in new construction. The result: unique, healthy homes that are 80% more efficient than similar conventional residences.

Free Valet Parking will be available with food and drink provided by Pestalozzi Place and Erato Wine Bar.

PLEASE RSVP BY JUNE 6TH TO jay@ecourbanhomes.com

Click here for DIRECTIONS

Live Green. Live Urban. Live EcoUrban.

- Varenna Kitchen Under Construction

- Bamboo Stairs going in on 5/30/07

- Fiber Cementboard Siding before paint and cedar trim

EcoUrban Units Arrive in Saint Louis

2007-04-30T18:18:00.002-05:00

After what felt like decades of anticipation and wait, it took just six days after the first pieces of wood were nailed together in the factory for the units to be delivered. Our units arrived at 10 AM this morning and the 60 Ton crane that lifted them into place was packed up and gone by 2 PM. We had a nice crowd gather to watch the four "boxes" come together and by the end of the day we were weather tight and secure. Finally, what was once just an idea becomes reality.

FINAL EXTERIOR --->

Modules Under Construction in Factory

2007-04-24T16:56:00.000-05:00

This is the real deal...EcoUrban units coming together at the modular factory. More later...

Signs, Sign, everywhere the Signs...

2007-04-05T15:07:00.000-05:00

You would swear some out-of-towner deceided to drop these BEAUTIFUL site signs down on our two sites. I'm taking bets on how long they last before the neighborhood characters vandalize them - I'm hopeful - but realistic. We deceided to go with the modern facade for both signs even though the two homes on Magnolia will be historic. I felt it more important to have a common look and feel rather than attempting to confuse passer-bys with multiple signs.

Your feedback is always appreciated. ECO! ECO! ECO! ECO! ECO! ECO! ECO!

Upcoming Seminar on Green Homes

2007-03-15T14:54:00.000-05:00

Time is flying by with our homes just weeks away from being delivered, and yet somehow I convinced a few people that I know what I'm doing AND...they invited me to share this knowledge IN CHICAGO! So in a few weeks, I'll be making the trip north (and stopping by IKEA) to spread the gospel of EcoUrban - Green and Pre-Fabulous...

Pre-fab Green Homes
April 28, 2007
1:00 - 3:00 P.M.
Chicago Center for Green Technology
445 North Sacramento Boulevard

Sponsor: Chicago Center for Green Technology,
Free event. Registration required.

Presenter: Jay Swoboda, ecoUrban Homes

SYNOPSIS
Expressing one’s self through a custom-designed home is often beyond the financial reach of many buyers. This seminar will explain how modular and other styles of pre-fab construction can offer design and production technologies that have the potential to deliver affordable, high quality homes to EVERYONE. Finally, we will take a look at how market-forces are making green homes and green products make sense financially to both builders and homeowners.

Register by calling the hotline at 312/746.9642, or by emailing your desired class and contact information.

I can almost taste it...

2007-02-26T18:18:00.000-06:00

Slow but ever so slowly I'm getting things worked out with Contempri Homes. I guess in this business once you are in line and make a change...you go to the END OF THE LINE. Still stuggling with doors and windows but everything else is ready to go. I will soon be placing orders for flooring, fixtures, appliances, etc. and with any luck we should have the unit delivered by the middle of April. In the meantime, lots of prep work for our other lots, but it is going smoothly. Website is really looking good and now I just need to get the details of our sales and marketing figured out. I can almost taste it...

Finally...my boots got dirty

2007-01-10T16:12:00.000-06:00

Ground is all sorts of dug up, concrete and waterproofing are in place...just waiting on a confirmation from Contempri Homes for a delivery date - but I have to stop making changes to the design if I am to get this before March. I guess after waiting this long another month will only give me more time to get our sales package and marketing more developed.

Closing Time

2006-12-12T13:09:00.000-06:00

Worked out the finer detail of our construction loan and with any luck we'll have some money in the bank after we empty our pockets one last time. I guess it feels good to know that we are really moving forward - without this loan commitment letter in hand it never felt right to break ground which we will be doing very soon on 3140 Pennsylvania. I've got the details worked out and 18 months later we are finally going build some homes.

Committment is Scary

2006-11-06T08:04:00.000-06:00

I made the decision to have Contempri Homes build our first units. They were able to build a flat roof and they have Iceynene foam insulation at a reasonable price. I sent my deposit and we are off to the races. Changed around the bathroom on the second floor and have been fine tuning our design to meet the requirements of the LEED for Homes certification. Shooting for a early February 2007 delivery.

Dwell Conference

2006-10-16T18:00:00.000-05:00

Just spent a few days getting inspired in San Francisco at the Dwell conference. What an inspiration to see so many committed individuals who are collectively moving things forward - pushing design and asking important questions about HOW and WHY our homes and businesses are built and what products and materials we put into them. Lots more to learn, but this was a great step forward.

Things to do:

Follow up with Breckenridge Homes
Call Joesph Tanney with Res4 Architecture
Work with Dwell editors on a design challenge for affordable infill.

I feel like I'm hibernating...

2006-08-14T17:57:00.000-05:00

After pushing so hard to get these homes built over the summer it feels as if I'm just derailing everything, and putting it on hold for a few months. I find myself fine tuning design details, picking out appliances and fixtures - and I believe that the home that eventually gets constructed will be better for having had this time on ice.

No sense in rushing

2006-07-20T09:50:00.000-05:00

I figure even if I get things worked out with our modular builder I won't have a home until late August at BEST, and the last thing I want is a home that hits the market at the wrong time. So, we decided that it would be best to move forward with a February/March 2007 delivery to hit the market at the best time. This allows me lots of time to work out our construction loan, get our website functional and create a real demand for EcoUrban Homes. Wish me luck!

Two more lots

2006-06-15T10:55:00.000-05:00

Closed on 3103-3105 Magnolia today. Great location, but awkward parcel size. Our plan is to build two historic units to complement our modern display home on Pennsylvania.

Total parcel count = 15

Time to start making some tough choices

2006-06-14T12:47:00.000-05:00

I imagine I could have built 10 of these homes with a hammer myself by now, but we are committed to the process and the building system approach. I am just amazed how clueless the front office of almos every modular builders I have attempted to work with are at moving custom designs from ideas on paper to homes on land. Advanced Building Concepts continues to work hard, but I'm not convinced they can even deliver and Contempri just won't get back to me. Am I missing something here?

Greening the Heartland

2006-05-15T14:44:00.000-05:00

I presented a "poster" at the Greening the Heartland conference in Kansas City recently and was really encouraged by the reaction to our building plan and design. The conference wasn't overly technical and there was a lot of preaching to the choir, but I think most of left with some great distributor contacts and the knowledge that we are not alone in our effort to green up homes across America.

Still Looking for Modular Builder...

2006-04-02T17:42:00.000-05:00

Advanced Building Concepts just is unable to figure out a flat roof and they are really bad about communication. I've deceided to open up my call list again and Contempri Homes in Pinckneyville might just be getting a call.

Land and more land...

2006-04-01T16:54:00.000-06:00

EcoUrban closed a big parcel of land today located on the corner of Arsenal and Minnesota. We hope this will be the future of home of 10-12 new green homes and we hope to build on the momentum of the neighborhood with so many other projects in development.

Green, Green and more Green

2006-03-26T17:39:00.000-06:00

We have committed to the USGBC to build our homes under the LEED for Homes certification program and I attended the training in Grand Rapids, Michigan to register EcoUrban Homes as a builder in the pilot program. While I imagine I could have viewed the powerpoint presentation from St. Louis it was worthwhile to explore a new city and share with the other 15 or so attendees the spirit of green building. More details later.

Stopped in Action

2006-03-15T11:41:00.000-06:00

I guess according to my original timeline I should be delivering the first modules today on their foundations. However, the reality is that modular manufacturers just don't get it - and we are heading to Linton, Indiana tomorrow to "tour" Advance Building Concepts factory and hopefully kiss enough ass for them to finally get them to committ to building our homes.

We selected a General Contractor back in February (or I should say they selected us as the only contractor to submit a bid) and we have been adjusting our design and floor plans ever since to hit our $100/sq. ft. target. Right now we are at $180/ft.

I'm not sure what else I can be in action on. I've pulled together the land for up to 12 homes to be built at a cost of around $125K after some unexpected commissions - and am working on an additional 4 lots that would come with some unwanted buildings. The architect seems to be pushing our project around meetings that are spaced out by days and weeks at times and I still don't have a firm grasp on when I should (if at all) pull the trigger.

I know that there is more to be done (Public Service Commission Issues, tax issues, LRA issues, marketing, etc.) but I just feel stopped in action. Perhaps after this weekend in New Orleans I'll find some new inspiration.

Bad News Comes in Pairs

2006-01-16T16:03:00.001-06:00

We were just a few days from putting the seal on the construction drawings when we got two days of bad news. First our prospective modular manufacturer got a big order from Jefferson Parish, Louisiana and pushed off our timeline by two months. Then our regional sewer district passed regulations prohibiting bathrooms in basements without proper pumps to get water and sewage up to a newly required 1st floor waste lateral. Just another day trying to build modular.

Construction Timeline

2005-11-09T09:31:00.000-06:00

Depending on how our land acquisition goes this next month, I would like to work out a plan to get our construction documents to the manufacturer by January 15, 2006, with hopes of getting our prototype on foundation by March 15th.

Marine Villa Environment

2005-11-08T11:24:00.000-06:00

E-mail from Craig Schmid on 11/8/05:

Basically, we are looking for excellent quality housing (mostly rehab), single-family detached homes (unless converting four families to two families), homeowner occupied, three-sides of brick with masonry rear, basement, compatible with the historic architecture (no modernism, cubism, etc.), meeting the urban model of garages in rear, and selling for a minimum price range of $150,000 to $200,000.

In the 20th Ward (other than in Benton Park West) you should be talking with Sam Green, CDA housing analyst, at (314) 622-3400 (ext. 232) or greens@stlouiscity.com. Sam and JoAnn work very well together.

Thanks.

Craig Schmid

Infill Development Details

2005-11-03T09:26:00.000-06:00

Who are the Buyer’s:
College educated couples (married, unmarried living together) transitioning from first or second jobs out of college into a more permanent position or having successfully launched their own business. Also, could be an empty-nester couple looking for good city living or divorced professional looking to start over. Emphasis on young architects and design professionals. The big issue is someone who wants a yard and doesn’t want a condo fee and likes the idea of working in a community garden and volunteering at the senior center across the street.

Price Range:
$169900 @ 1258 sq. feet without a garage and $189900 with garage and $189900 @ 1440 sq. feet (involves stretching house approx. 6 more feet) without a garage and $209,900 with garage. We would like to push this upward by at least $10,000 through our marketing and promotion of the area, which will not only get everyone on our side in the neighborhood but will lead prospective homeowners to our development(s) by directing a significant portion of our efforts to pumping up Benton Park West.

Size of Home:
1258 up to 1440 square feet

Check out http://www.mayorslay.com/polls/090805squarefeetresults.asp which provides data on a group of participants who responded to a survery about home size and city living.

Neighborhood Preservation Tax Credit

2005-10-21T13:21:00.000-05:00

Neighborhood Preservation Act

The deadline for the 2006 tax credit application will be November 18, 2005.

This act authorizes state tax credits for residential rehabilitation and construction costs for properties located in distressed communities* or defined census blocks.

Purpose
To provide an incentive for the rehabilitation or construction of owner-occupied homes in certain areas of the state.

Authorization
Sections 135.475 to 135.487, RSMo

How The Program Works
The Department of Economic Development (DED) issues state tax credits to a homeowner who rehabilitates a home or to a homeowner or developer that constructs a new home for owner-occupancy in certain areas of the state.

Eligible Areas
“Qualifying areas,” include “distressed communities,” as defined in 135.530, RSMo, and areas with a median household income of less than 70% of the median household income for the applicable MSA or non-MSA. “Eligible areas,” with a median household income of 70% to 89% of the median household income for the applicable MSA or non-MSA.

NEW CONSTRUCTION

Eligible Area

For new construction in the state of Missouri under this category, the following must apply:

The newly constructed residence must be replacing a residence that is equal to or more than forty years of age and is demolished for the purposes of constructing a replacement residence.

The residence is constructed on vacant property, which has been classified (for tax purposes) for not less than forty continuous years as residential, utility, commercial, railroad, or other real property.

If in a metropolitan statistical area or non-metropolitan statistical area, the property must be in a United States census block group which has a median household income of less than ninety percent (90%) but greater than or equal to seventy percent (70%) of the median household income for the metropolitan statistical area in which the census block group is located.

There is no minimum cost that you must incur for new construction. The maximum tax credit amount is $25,000 in any 10-year period. For example, if you spend $25,000 to construct your home, you could receive a $3,750 tax credit [$25,000 x 15% = $3,750]. NOTE: (You may be eligible to reapply continuously until you reach the $25,000 maximum tax credit amount if your “new construction” has not been completed and you have incurred additional construction expenses.)

Qualifying (Distressed Community) Area

If doing new construction in the state of Missouri under this category, the following must apply:

The land must have been vacant for at least two years and is or was occupied by a structure condemned by the local entity.

If in a metropolitan statistical area or non-metropolitan statistical area, the property must be in a United States census block group, which has a median household income of less than seventy percent (70%).

A message from JoAnn Vatcha regarding Housing Corporation Meeting

2005-10-21T11:30:00.000-05:00

Thank you for coming to the Benton Park West Housing Corporation last night. I am very excited about the energy angle, affordability and bold design of the product, and I hope we can work together to make it happen. I will be out of town the next few days, but when I return on Tuesday, I'll call to set up a meeting to discuss this further.

Step One: Start Blog

2005-10-16T23:12:00.000-05:00

So here it is. Possibly the first real estate development project ever supported by an online blog. I hope that as we continue to move forward with this project we can find a way to support our efforts and our ideas through informal communication as we foster an environment of thoughtful creativity and critique. Meetings will always be a necessary part of any project - but late-night and early morning brainstorms, hair-brained ideas and rants need a place to be heard. Hopefully this can be our space.