OVERVIEW.  Linnaean Apartments contains 20 units of elderly/disabled efficiency dwelling units in a low-rise building managed and maintained by the Cambridge Housing Authority.

THE EXISTING BUILDING.  This three story wood frame, masonry and cast concrete building includes exterior corridors/balconies, and was originally constructed in 1962, then later purchased but never used as a college dormitory for Radcliffe. In 1981 the structure was converted into affordable elderly and disabled housing. Per a recent capital needs assessment, it was clear that a number of building attributes were approaching the end of their useful lifespan.

DEEP ENERGY RETROFIT GOAL.  The project goal is a full envelope and systems update to achieve a deep energy retrofit providing:
 - improved occupant comfort
 - exceptionally low operating costs
 - healthier indoor air quality
 - long term durability with low maintenance
 - zero on-site fossil fuel use

ENVELOPE & SYSTEMS IMPROVEMENTS. The goal is for the building to be revitalized with a new super-insulated enclosure, high performance windows, high efficiency heating/cooling, new domestic hot water systems, new mechanical ventilation, and if budget allows, a solar electric system to help offset consumption.