eco New Bedford

Letterpress Studio at ecoNewBedford

2011-12-20T10:19:00.004-05:00

If you're looking to develop with this craft - there's a Chandler Letterpress with ample workshop and staffed adjoining retail space available.

Off-Centre Opens

2011-11-20T10:36:00.004-05:00

Next door to the Center Cafe, we have opened a shop for local, upcycled, and unique crafted gifts. We are open on weekends during this season. Look through our collection for special gifts. (see www.center-cafe.com/off-centre.php )

Center Cafe Opens

2011-06-23T21:23:00.001-04:00

Last week the dream of a neighborhood Cafe on this busy corner was finally realized ! As written about in earlier posts - the Cafe gets its vibe from modern frugal simplicity and the local residents and visitors who fill it. Sometimes jokingly referred to as the Serenity Cafe - its being called the "Center Cafe" - being in the center of the building (aka "center bay") , center of the peninsula, and a center for life. Open morning to night. See www.center-cafe.com

Local artist Nick Melo is displaying eight paintings, our coffee is Equal Exchange, our ice cream comes from Bliss Brother's Dairy, and the menu offers "real food". Three neighbors keep things running unbelievably smooth. The challenge of this entire project is now expressed in this goodness. The role of experienced design in business development should not be underestimated (read more at alternativearchitecture. Thank you "eco" New Bedford.

Sustainability at the Cafe

2011-06-23T19:02:00.000-04:00

Sustainable Operations at the Center Cafe include:

- serving on dishes
- keeping all recyclables out of the trash
- composting all vegetable waste & coffeegrounds
- using passive cooling (continuous ventilation, shading, thermal protection)
- beverage cooler shuts off overnight

During Fitout

- construction trash continued to be sorted

- excess materials from previous work was put to use

- a cast iron sink was reused

- two vintage chairs reupholstered.

- selectively purchased used equipment and fixtures

- continued to buy local

New Local Plumbing Contractor!

2011-06-23T15:45:00.008-04:00

Although the Cafe space was finished over the winter to convey the possibility for opening this business, approval from the Board of Health required upgrades to the existing plumbing. Many of the contractors who have worked on this project, feel like part of a team who recognize one another and together do the finest work. Medeiros Plumbing and Heating just happened to be dropping into the Quik Mart, when this project needed a reasonable local plumber to complete the Cafe.

Reusing this vintage sink is just one example of how well the work was completed.

Revival of the Mom and Pop !

2011-03-03T08:33:00.011-05:00

The center store has been developed for a limited food service - such as gourmet coffee and ice cream plus soups and salads - see previous posting.

Throughout construction of the townhouses two commercial spaces remained vacant but always active with construction. Materials were worked on here and stored here. Even though we would have moved out for an incoming business, the unfinished shell was unable to attract potential business.

A strategy developed, though, to prep the space with intentions to make it more turnkey for the opening of a new business. An approach described as Frugal Design is being used to make this space uniquely appealing and satisfying. Getting past the many hurdles of constructing a new space is not for every new business owner. With this space available and assistance from NBEDC, it is just a matter of time to attract a determined and creative entrepreneur.

Contact Us if you have an interest in this business opportunity or would like design assistance in developing a property. Professional design skills are essential to getting the most out of a property investment.

Performance Counts!

2010-09-28T19:47:00.008-04:00

Building EnergyStar homes for a rental market is a great step towards sustainability, but performance is a major matter. Over the past few weeks we've had a learning curve and some glitches with various systems. Here's some of the highlights from the line of products used:

- Bosch tankless hot water has maintained a steady temperature for three fixtures running at once. With a tankless system, though, just don't call for temperature extremes (ie all the way hot before going to preferred temperature). I think this habit comes from drawing as much hot water as possible from a traditional tank system to warm up cold pipes fast, but this makes the tankless run cold.

- One day after a tenant reported mold growing under the kitchen sink, SERVPro of New Bedford Specialist Gary OToole met me on-site to determine a remediation plan. Could the building be too tight? It turned out the mastic sealing the joint between the wall and floor kind of looks like mold under the cabinet. What a relief to discover the tenant was mistaken! Thank you SERVPro of New Bedford - SERVPro of the South Coast for the reassurance when I called with this "problem."

- In the winter the heat pumps kept things nice and cozy, but this summer staying cool in the high temps and humidity was a challenge. In general the heat pumps seemed to work best with some help such as window coverings, added fans, and keeping the thermostat set high or in dehumidify mode. In general the systems provided relief (after testing the charge and getting the condensate lines to drain properly) but it seems fine tuning will continue.

Completed Project Slideshow

2010-08-20T15:20:00.005-04:00

Through craft design and cost consciousness, this project produced a refinement of our style into a low-cost minimalism. An earlier posting shows the design's floor plans and elevations now completed.

"It's a Beehive!"

2010-08-20T13:45:00.025-04:00

A couple times while working on the project, I was told the building was a beehive. I think the beehive is represented in the density and the opportunity it creates for constant activity in the ecoNewBedford mixed-use building. Plus the nooks and crannies used to affect the mass of the building also give an impression of a beehive.

The townhouses have been called "livable housing", which is the result of a stylish and flexible design. The low-cost minimalism has a sophisticated effect with sparseness being "all you need." Amenities of energy efficiency, income potential, and outdoor patios nestled in the trees gives the units the livable qualities that quickly took them off the market! (see slideshow) These units are not your "grandmother's apartment" or your "college rental."

We are now looking forward to completing and occupying the remaining commercial space so the building really hums.

The plaster relief model shown above titled "Selfless Labor" was created by Arcangelo Cascieri, dean of the Boston Architectural College 1943-1947.

Cost of Construction in the New Economy

2010-08-20T13:31:00.006-04:00

Properties are investments that are improved by being maintained and fully utilized. Understanding costs are critical to any construction project. Due to the new economy virtually any excess was eliminated, and in the end was not missed. This project revealed that choosing energy efficiency did not really effect project costs, and sensitive design provided for a low-cost high-style impact.

For an informative and concise report
click here.

Buy Local Impact

2010-08-20T12:47:00.011-04:00

Analysis of the project's financials includes totaling payments made to all suppliers, contractors, and employees from New Bedford. More than 20% of the project budget added to the local economy, and this does not include local small business outside the City of New Bedford. Three jobs are estimated to have been created in New Bedford by this development project's buy local campaign.

Here's the list of New Bedford businesses we worked with:

Reliable Truss, New Bedford, MA www.reliabletruss.com
Beacon Sales, New Bedford www.beaconsales.com
National Lumber, New Bedford www.national-lumber.com
Franklin Bros, New Bedford, MA (508) 998-8270

Olivier and Sons, Inc. New Bedford, MA www.olivierandsons.com

Star Glass, New Bedford, MA (508) 995-0166
Tony's Appliance, New Bedford, MA www.shoptonysappliance.com

KD Heating & Cooling (508)990-9525
DeMello's Furniture, New Bedford, MA www.demellos.com
Fastenal, New Bedford, MA www.fastenal.com
C&M Flooring, New Bedford, MA www.candmfloorcovering.com
S&L Rolloff, New Bedford, MA (508) 996-9939
Santos Masonry, New Bedford, MA (508) 997-3722
ABC Disposal, New Bedford, MA www.abcdisposal.com
F W Webb, New Bedford, MA www.fwwebb.com
Rivet Street Hardware, New Bedford, MA (508) 994-3211
Rogers Paint, New Bedford, MA www.rogerspaintandwallcovering.com

First Citizens FCU, New Bedford, MA www.firstcitizens.org

Neto Insurance, New Bedford, MA, www.netoinsurance.com

South End Business Association www.nbseba.com

Sustenance

2010-08-20T12:37:00.011-04:00

Reducing, reusing, and recycling can all seem like tasks not worth the sometimes painstaking effort, except they contribute to an ongoing sense of accomplishment. The savings may seem "small" but together add up. This is sustenance, and the efforts towards sustainability do lift us up.

On this project cost savings in disposal and material costs came from practicing the Three Rs, and they also had the benefit of helping the project stay organized.

We are presently tuning systems and collecting data on utility bills. With the EnergyStar rating these townhouses consume roughly half the energy of a typical home. So far utility bills have been noticeably reduced. A more detailed reporting will follow when more history is available.

Across the Street at Hazelwood Park

2010-08-19T14:05:00.001-04:00

This Sunday 8/29 from 1-5pm the South End Business Association is hosting it's first Car Cruise. Throughout the year this beachfront park hosts numerous activities and events just right outside the front door.

Keep Things Real Simple

2010-06-06T12:29:00.012-04:00

This is a guiding principle that has sustained this project. Yesterday's Hazelwood Park Summer Fair Open House had a theme of buy-local refreshments that was lower on the week's priority list than getting the townhouses ready. Here's a photo showing the past week's effort.

By keeping things simple with the buy-local theme the Open House just came together. At the Fair we met Howard and Colleen (execellent BBQ chefs with a cafe soon to open on Acushnet Ave) and the west indian chicken and ribs were just thing to go with Fresh Portuguese Cheese from Westport (purchased at DeMellos Market), Cranberry Bread and Chocolate Covered Cranberries from Tihonet Village Market in Wareham and wine from Running Brook Winery in North Dartmouth (purchased at Freitas Package Store).

Yesterday we were also running a booth for the Coalition for Buzzard Bay at the Fair. The Coalition is having a $10 membership drive that's being matched by an anonymous donor. This membership drive is a way to give local support to challenges being faced in our coastal waters especially now. Having designed the Smart Growth Mixed Use Project featuring Energy Star Townhouses in response to the Coalition for Buzzards Bay Action Plan for Land Use we want to help spread the word about the Membership Challenge Campaign. See more.

Hazelwood Park Summer Fair OpenHouses

2010-06-05T06:50:00.003-04:00

Visit the ecoNewBedford Townhouses across the street from the Hazelwood Park Summer Fair on Saturday and Sunday from 1-3pm. Location: 468 Brock Avenue, New Bedford.

Designed for Today's Family

2010-05-28T16:52:00.005-04:00

It is hard to believe, but we are wrapping up. Our first tenant came forward with the qualities that were in mind when planning these units. First off they are looking for a nice home for their new daughter. They are also interested in community revitalization and a sustainable future. Like many young people these days they have a tight budget, so they figured out they could enjoy these fresh surroundings by having a roommate in the private first floor bedroom. This bedroom and bath was always intended to be a flexible space. For the roommate, this is a nice housing option. In addition the tenant owns a small business, and it's exciting to cross paths with N9NEPromotions. See the N9NEPromo posting about evolving their lifesytle. To see their latest streetball promotion click here.

Best Seafood Around

2010-05-28T16:28:00.000-04:00

When you come for the Hazelwood Park Summer Fair Open Houses and Fireworks, don't miss Davy's Locker a couple blocks away for the best seafood around with a spectacular view of Buzzards Bay.

Buy Local Campaign Continues

2010-05-23T08:46:00.008-04:00

This project has run on the premise that Smart Growth construction can be completed by choosing local suppliers and contractors. The budget accommodates this through cost-effective design and the economic return to the community of which we are a part of. Often the local supplier competes just as well or even better than the national retailers. To be sure the national retailers have had a piece of this project, but this project is decidedly local.

The South End of New Bedford has amazing local resources for finishing your home. All of these businesses are within a mile, and are great for the income, jobs and street presence they create. Finding what you need in your village center is convenient, saves time and energy, and this hasn't been completely forgotten in this community.

Appliances have been purchased from Tony's Appliance on County Street; both the selection and price were great. These were the most attractive appliances for the budget that I could find anywhere. The carpet is coming from C & M Flooring on Orchard Street near Goulett Square (click here for a brief slideshow from the South End Business Association). Paint has been from Rogers Benjamin Moore on County Street. Victor came out and did a color consultation that pulled everything together. He help me choose the colors that would be right together. Finally a beautiful modern lime green living room set is coming from DeMelos Furniture whose storefront is wondrously modern, spacious, and you look forward to seeing the changing rooms displayed inside.

Sneak Peak

2010-05-22T09:54:00.002-04:00

With a punch list a mile long, and floors covered in cardboard, all I can show of the interiors are photos of the kitchen that show the direction the townhouses are taking with a low-budget and minimalist style approach. Note the stainless steel appliances from Tony's Appliance. (Click to see floor plans showing this kitchen) The cork flooring is from Portugal and sourced through Black River Flooring from my home state of Wisconsin.

"In Search of Eco-Cafe Entrepreneur"

2010-05-15T12:02:00.010-04:00

Edible South Shore says it so well in the latest Spring issue. We're looking for a Eco-Cafe Entrepreneur to complete this Smart Growth Mixed Use project that brings innovation and efficiency to this fantastic beachfront neighborhood. As shown by the movement of "Edible South Shore", the Massachusetts South Coast region has a flare for self sufficiency that is supported by a lower-cost of living combined with a high-quality lifestyle. Take a look at the latest issue of Edible South Shore or look for copies at these south shore business locations.

See our Eco-Cafe posting to get a feel for creating a friendly neighborhood business in the available space. Also view a posting about the townhouses that offers an ideal live/work setup.

Recycle Everyday - Part 2

2010-04-28T18:23:00.011-04:00

At least 40 five-gallon buckets containing either joint compound or paint were consumed on the job. Meg Hebert of the Greater New Bedford Regional Refuse Management District directed me to A.W. Martin, Inc. to get these buckets recycled. I was told to be sure the buckets were relatively clean, and that took an hour of effort. When dropping off the buckets, I got an enthusiastic response from all of the staff and the comment that more builders should think about recycling.

Sorting the trash always rewards me with less trash to pay to dispose of, and it is meaningful to produce less waste. The amount of cardboard and foam on this job is huge, and it would be pointless to cart any of it to the disposal site. Here's a link to my approach to reusing polystyrene http://alternativearchitecture.blogspot.com/2009/12/affordable-energy-retrofits.html . See earlier post Part 1

Building Up is Catching On

2010-04-17T15:30:00.012-04:00

It has taken the whole recession to finish these townhouses, and we're almost there. Much of what has kept this project going is the belief that it matters to a wide community of small businesses. Every building project has this capacity. It is great to hear more stories like these being told on CNN's new segment "Building Up America." Take a look click here.

One of the projects profiled is the adaptive reuse of a 1959 auditorium into a new stuning performance arts center. The techniques used at the Austin Long Center were also being used here in New Bedford in the transformation of a deteriorated commercial building. Recycling and building up this economy have been key to this Smart Growth Mixed-Use Project. Looks like building up is catching on.

We've Met The Challenge !

2010-02-10T13:33:00.016-05:00

In the summer of 2009, effortlessdesign, inc. signed up for the DOE Builder's Challenge Program where we committed to build homes with an Energy Smart Home Scale of 70 or lower. This a truly a challenge, because we make the effort to do things right. We are enthusiastic about finding air leaks and having our equipment work properly. The following graphic from the DOE Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy website shows the scale of home performance. From our building specification and initial blower door testing we will have a performance lower than 70, and our performance is also expected to be lower than the project depicted in the graphic. The eco New Bedford townhouses are roughly 60% better than the existing housing stock, and 40% better than the current energy code. If you lived here, you would reduce your carbon foot-print.

Shelter & Beyond Exhibit

2009-12-28T16:56:00.009-05:00

In 2004 with fellow Boston Architectural College alumni and students, effortlessdesign curated and installed an exhibit titled Shelter & Beyond: Innovating for Communities in Need. One year later we purchased the underutilized commercial building on Brock Avenue (see before photo) with the intention of rehabilitating the building and innovating for efficient and affordable housing. In New Bedford, building innovation combined with a range of pressing issues from sustaining a watershed to investing in local business and recognizing vibrant neighborhoods. Over the course of the past five years the need - both for the economy and the ecology - to design for these conditions has become more apparent, and the project became expressed as econewbedford. A portion of the Shelter & Beyond exhibit is now hanging in the smallest commercial space at 468 Brock Avenue. The title board to the exhibit included a passage inspired by Buckminster Fuller that can be read at alternativearchitecture.blogspot.com/2009/12/passage-from-2004-shelter-beyond.html

'Tis the Season!

2009-12-16T05:51:00.013-05:00

Due to the incoming storm, the Winter Solstice Brunch will be rescheduled to Sunday January 3, 2010 11am - 2pm

You are invited to tour the Energy Star Certified Townhouses in New Bedford’s South End. Choose a date that works best for you to celebrate with effortlessdesign for getting the work done in 2009!

Winter Solstice Brunch

Sunday, December 20th 11am – 2pm

Lunch Hour Pizza Party

Tuesday, December 22nd 11:30am – 1:30pm

Smart Growth Mixed-Use Project

464-468 Brock Avenue

New Bedford, MA 02744

Clear View

2009-12-12T11:04:00.004-05:00

Leaves are mostly down. Photo taken on a recent super beautiful clear day. See before photo.

Heating System Turns On

2009-12-12T09:42:00.019-05:00

This past week the heating and air conditioning system was turned on. From the neighborhood, very clued up, KD Heating and Air Conditioning brought the LG LMU185HV air to air heat pumps online. Ken DeMelo and Kris DeMelo are participating contractors in the CoolSmart program and are very in-tune to efficient hvac systems. This install is now being monitored for performance in the townhouses which are essentially a completely sealed foam box (integrated to a rigid frame of course).

The primary observation is that a room temperature in the low sixties feels completely and satisfyingly warm because there are zero drafts.

Outdoor Condensor Units (one per townhouse)

Concealed Ducted Units for three bedroom spaces (same both units)

Wall Mounted Unit for central living area (same both units)

Energy Star Audit

2009-11-21T20:39:00.014-05:00

This past week the two townhouses were evaluated for Energy Star and the Home Energy Rating System Index (HERS).

Before the sheetrock goes up we will fix all of the leaks found through the blower door testing. The blower door sucks air out of the building and then an infrared camera is used to see where air is being pulled into the building. During the heating season these leaks push out warm air and let cold air in on a windy day.

Fixing leaks identified by the blower door test means valuable warm air won't just be leaking out of the homes year after year. Despite very tight construction each townhouse was leaking 1800 CFM. Many people ask "but aren't tight homes unhealthy?" This is true if the house doesn't include a ventilation system. Stale air will be exhausted through a system called Heat Recovery Ventilation (HRV). An HRV warms up the fresh air coming in with the stale being exhausted outside.

In the attached video, conversations with Chris Mazzola of Building Diagnostics Sandwich, MA were recorded. Chris is a home energy rater who inspects the construction and measures its energy characteristics, such as insulation levels, window efficiency, wall-to-window ratios, the heating and cooling system efficiency, and the solar orientation of the home.

Pictures From Hazelwood Park

2009-11-04T20:48:00.004-05:00

A beautiful Fall day perfect for taking a stroll in Hazelwood Park across the street from the Smart Growth Mixed Use project.

Be a Bioneer - Connect for Change

2009-10-23T05:10:00.005-04:00

The Marion Institute’s 5th annual conference Bioneers By the Bay will be held in historic Downtown New Bedford, MA, on October 23-25, 2009. We will be in the exhibition hall featuring sustainable businesses and organizations. Looking forward to meeting lots of people and introducing them to the Smart Growth Mixed Use project.

If You Lived Here, You Would Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

2009-10-23T04:41:00.009-04:00

In a couple weeks we will begin the Energy Star certification with Building Diagnostics in Sandwich, MA. These two three-bedroom townhouses have been designed to reduce energy consumption throughout.

The systems include:

super tight and highly insulated construction

heat recovery continuous ventilation

heat pump with inverter technology

tankless hot water

ventless washer dryer

steam based dishwasher

water saving fixtures

fluorescent lighting throughout

Plus bus service right out the front door! And a beautiful shoreline all around... If you're interested in the lofts at Wamsutta Place, you'll like this location more!

Contact carol@effortlessdesign.com if you would like to lease one of these efficient homes. Move in after the holidays!

Great System

2009-10-12T16:17:00.000-04:00

A glassblock panel provides daylighting at the rear commercial vestibule. We used Pittsburg Corning ProVantage Glass Block Installation System, and it was the one of the easiest products I have ever used. Big Impact.

Green Building Open House October 3, 10am-4pm

2009-09-27T18:29:00.010-04:00

The Northeast Sustainable Energy Association has organized a Green Building Open House this coming Saturday. Visit the Smart Growth Mixed-Use project to tour and learn about the sustainable building practices we have used for high value solutions.

View Open House & Studio in a larger map

Just down the street you will find Fort Tabor with fantastic views of Buzzards Bay and an impressive fort and walking trails.

New Bedford Open Studios is also being held on Oct 3rd & 4th. effortlessdesign practices modern artisan design/build. Include visiting our project on your tour to the studios at 21 Cove Street.

Putting the Pieces Together

2009-09-27T08:59:00.000-04:00

The final touches are being brought together on the storefronts, new accessible entrance, and exterior.

The rough construction phase of the townhouses is nearing completion, and we are planning to schedule walk-thrus and energy performance testing prior to starting the interior finish.

Recycling Everyday

2009-09-25T08:33:00.003-04:00

Recycling has been a daily practice in the construction of the townhouses. This photo shows roof tiles saved from the original side parapets now capping new parapets.

Other recycling has included:

- use of leftover flat roof insulation in the rear bumpout walls.

- donation of leftover insulation from the EIFS to an area cultural group (see results).

- use of shipping panel from metal siding as a ceiling soffit.

- mixing paint leftovers to create the color and amount of paint needed for small areas.

- contractors putting drink bottles and cans in the recycle bin!

- cardboard packaging put out on the curb.

- all raw wood has been separated for wood stoves.

Throughout the construction of the townhouses, a dumpster has not been on-site. All construction debris has been transported as needed in the back of a hatchback, making the recycling even more useful and practical.

Super Wiring

2009-09-15T20:41:00.000-04:00

Medieros Electric passed our electrical rough wiring inspection. It was truly music to my ears to hear Larry Medieros, son of Joe Medieros, say how impressed he was with the wiring chases in the SIPs. The credit belongs to Branch River Plastics and R Control for their consistent, systematic layout.

Metamorphosis

2009-08-12T05:34:00.012-04:00

These photos taken last week show the completion of the exterior of the townhouses. Almost like a cocoon, lots of work has also been going on inside the two commercial units in preparation for the new storefront to be installed. The ATAS standing seam metal roof sourced from Beacon Sales is one of the elements used to distinguish this building from its traditional surroundings.

The rear elevation shows the horizontal install of James Hardie Sierra 8 cement board panels to wrap the two story entry vestibule. In contrast to these "before" pictures, the transformation is almost complete.

Assembly Model

2009-08-12T05:05:00.000-04:00

Our Masters Student from the Boston Architectural College, produced this model of the SIPs panels from the shop drawings. Generally these days physical models have been replaced by 3-D computer modeling. However, this model was a test of the shop drawings and provided a visualization for the contractor that drawings just can not produce.

Take a Look

2009-07-22T07:21:00.007-04:00

The New Bedford Economic Development Council has posted the brochure for the South End on its homepage. The brochure is part of a collection promoting the commercial opportunities of New Bedford neighborhoods. The demographic information included by the NBEDC is worth checking out.

Also see earlier posts "Mixed Use Prospects" and "What's Taking Shape"

Urban Life Sustains Us.

2009-07-15T08:03:00.011-04:00

From Architectural Record, how the rough economy will strengthen our cities. Strengthening and bringing new engaging business into neighborhoods makes these villages more attractive and economical. You don't have to leave home to find something interesting and worth going to, and it is super healthy to get out and walk around. Well-maintained or newly constructed residential units compete very well on the residential market, and adding some more of these brings in more energy and diversity now as a preferred choice.

read the whole article

It's All About Adding Value!

2009-06-16T08:32:00.004-04:00

"Sustainable, Eco-friendly & Green...all add up to Smarter Real Estate"

This tag line is from the
metroGREEN+BUSINESS webpage, and it repeats the premise of this project and blog that Smart Growth properties, particularly at the community-scale, are good investments. In return these projects are also important to the local economy both during construction and later by adding density to existing neighborhood and commercial districts.

Summer Fair at Hazelwood Park Opens Today!

2009-06-04T07:12:00.008-04:00

Over the next four days, June 4-7, the South End Business Association hosts the Hazelwood Park Summer Fair. The carnival rides and ocean views are truly breathtaking. The fireworks Saturday night will be thrilling too. Details at www.newbedford360.com

econewbedford.blogspot.com is sponsoring an announcement at the fair, and our SmartGrowth Mixed-Use project is just across the street. Take a look. We have flyers promoting the community market and internet marketing programs we are developing with the South End Business Association.

Added Two New Local Contractors!

2009-05-31T20:07:00.007-04:00

During the month of May, two new contractors from the area began working on the project.

Medieros Electric of Dartmouth, contact medeiroselectric@yahoo.com, is experienced in wiring with the SIPs.

Ramiro Garcia also of Dartmouth, contact rgcontracting@hotmail.com, was recommended by Joe Medieros for being a skilled general contractor with experience installing the Exterior Insulation Finish System (EIFS) with a sand, stucco surface. Ramiro has also recently completed a project in Westport using SIPs.

Both have begun working, and it is reassuring to see the SIPs now protected.

Latest Photo

2009-04-27T09:23:00.004-04:00

The facade parapet is nearly complete except for caps to be added at the end piers. DeMaesschalk Restorations did a fantastic job on the "cool" standing seam metal roof from Coastal Metals. In the weeks ahead, looking forward to installing a new storefont into the center bay and completing the entry vestibule.

Contractor's Photos From the SIP Install

2009-04-10T05:49:00.006-04:00

Putting the pieces of this project together is a specialty of DeMaesschalck Restoration. These photos taken last December are where it all started; putting in walls and even floors using SIPs.

Community Markets

2009-03-29T10:34:00.008-04:00

View Larger Map

Two parks in New Bedford's South End Neighborhood are particularly central to their immediate surroundings. Ashley Park (furthest north) faces the Goulette Square commercial district, and Hazelwood Park is midway down Brock Avenue where the Senior Center is located and adjoins the beaches facing Clarks Cove. The creation of a Community Market at either or both of these sites would be an important new community resource. The market brings a new and sustainable routine of picking up fresh food in a social setting. Since so many gardens are already cultivated in the neighborhood, the market would be a place to sell surplus and increase involvement in growing produce, sharing plants, and walking to shopping. Since Spring is in the air, planning needs to begin soon. More postings will follow.

The Transportation Connection

2009-03-20T13:07:00.029-04:00

As a student from the Boston Architectural College www.the-bac.edu , I've spent the past several weeks learning about Smart Growth and how the Brock Ave. project fits under the rubric of Smart Growth urban planning and development. Designing communities that provide a variety of sustainable transportation choices for the people who work and live there is a core principle of Smart Growth.

The three restored commercial units create opportunities for goods and services to be provided locally, creating a "walkable" neighborhood. The project at 464-468 Brock Ave., although nestled in a predominantly residential area, lies within walking distance of other several other small businesses, shops, a public park, and a senior citizen's community center. The development of walkable neighborhoods provides multiple quality-of-life benefits, including lower transportation costs, greater social interaction, improved personal and environmental health, and a greater range of choices for consumers.

The Brock Ave. site is also favorable in terms of the availablity of mass transit. High quality mass transit services will reduce auto-dependency, alleviating the ever-growing problem of traffic congestion, and will overall improve commuter quality of life. Brock Ave. lies on the SRTA Bus Route 1, a direct route to New Bedford's downtown core. The downtown bus terminal provides the connection to SRTA Bus Route 9 to UMass Dartmouth and Fall River. Also departing from the downtown bus terminal, DATTCO provides daily commuter bus services to Boston, and Peter Pan Bus Lines provides daily commuter services to Providence.

Looking to the future, the Brock Ave. site also lies on the proposed routes for the South Coast Commuter Rail System, currently in the planning phase. The incoming commuter rail system will ultimately connect our small South End project to multiliple urban centers, and holds tremendous promise for the entire community of New Bedford.

We Get Around

2009-03-07T18:53:00.013-05:00

This photo is a stretch of Rte 122A in Grafton, Massachusetts that links two ends of a mill village. We just submitted a proposal to work on streetscape, engineering, and planning to bring this village together. This is one of those landscapes where I look out and see opportunity at the community-scale. It is pocket to be developed. See earlier post http://econewbedford.blogspot.com/2009/01/ecology-economy.html
We partnered with Thompson-Farland, www.thompsonfarland.com, a New Bedford engineering firm, and Community Design Partnership (see http://www.town.ipswich.ma.us/plandev/pdf/whole%20green%20ring.pdf ) in Boston.

This a great Smart Growth Project, and it would be fantastic if we all got to work together on this sustainable site.

Eco Cafe

2009-02-28T11:17:00.009-05:00

Here is an interior view of the cafe being considered in the center retail space. Work is planned to begin in the in the next couple weeks. The retail space is across from Hazelwood Park on a public bus route that connects UMass Dartmouth’s SMAST, the Sea Lab, amenities at FortTabor and the neighborhoods of the south end with downtown New Bedford. The “place” will have:

WIFI Connection

Fresh Bakery

Boar’s Head Sandwiches

Homemade Soups

Space For All Ages To Meet, Work & Relax

See previous post

http://econewbedford.blogspot.com/2009/01/mixed-use-prospects.html

The BIG price we can no longer pay?

2009-02-05T10:26:00.016-05:00

Working with our building from 1920, we get a glimpse into a world operating from a different perspective. Once looking a lot like the sketch on the right, our commercial building began as an investment property of three stores meant to serve the neighborhood. This building type is well-known throughout pre-WWII neighborhoods, and our thesis advisor and mentor, Bill Boehm (www.boehmarchitecture.com) at the Boston Architectural College researched and classified this building type as a "taxpayer block."

Back in 1920 small (again by today's perspective) was the standard, and I suspect this was because it was economical. Yesterday with our architecture student, I attended a Regional Energy Strategy meeting (organized by the Southeastern Regional Planning and Economic Development District, www.srpedd.org, and UMass Dartmouth) where it was emphasized that reduction, conservation, and efficiency are essential for energy independence.

As we layout plans for the coffeehouse our perceptions about space are challenged, BUT all of the stores in our commercial block offer limited overhead and plenty of street exposure. Efficiency makes them work, and especially for our neighborhoods and small business maybe it is time to think again that "less is really more." Could efficient be the new big? In a recent conversation with Bill Boehm he called this project "Smart-Growth for Main Street."

Working at the small-scale community level has been the on-going thread of our design business. Visit www.effortlessdesign.com and call to schedule an assessment to improve the efficiency and increase revenue from your project or property.

Roof's Going On

2009-01-29T09:21:00.008-05:00

If I didn't have a fear of heights, I could tell you first hand about the fantastic view of the peninsula and harbor from our roof under construction. Instead I just hear from the daring carpenters that they can see all the way to downtown and then everything all around. I need to investigate adding a widow's walk to our modern lofts!

Here are recent photos showing the roof trusses being craned into place.

This is one view out from the rear window at the top floor of the townhouses.

Mixed-Use Prospects

2009-01-10T13:21:00.011-05:00

Here is a spectacular aerial view of New Bedford's South End Neighborhood. More than 7,000 people live in the neighborhood, and more than 50 businesses operate shops providing goods and services to the community.

There's been a lot of discussion about opening a coffeehouse in this neighborhood. A venue with a relaxed open setting to meet, study, work, and access internet doesn't currently exist for the residents, students and professionals located here.

On this blog's survey you have the opportunity to add to this discussion. We have tried to identify uses appropriate to the site. Please enter your preferences in the survey.

Below is the layout of three neighborhood commercial spaces on the ground floor of this project. The store on the corner is currently a convenience store. The center store is available for the coffeehouse and can be combined with the adjacent smaller store. Please contact carol@effortlessdesign.com if you would like further information regarding opening a business on Brock Avenue.

SIP Assembly

2009-01-07T15:45:00.005-05:00

Below is a sequence of photos of showing a wall being assembled as described in the shop drawings. Mark and Walter would like the manufacturer to group the panels in a wall together when delivered to the site.

Our Contractor and Local Suppliers

2009-01-07T11:39:00.017-05:00

This recent sunny day photo was taken 12-23-08 on-site, and since then there's been just a few holidays and snow days. Given those conditions and the learning curve of installing SIPs on this project, our builder DeMaesschalck Restoration (www.mdrest.com)has been doing quite well. In my experience it is best to work as a team, and over the past 6 months we have enjoyed a good working relationship with Mark DeMaeshalk and his partner Walter Collins.

Generally through the interview and bid process you find people you can have confidence in, and most folk's intentions are to do a good job. This is critical to remember, because it is easy to get frustrated during a construction project especially when it is rainy and snowy and there are plenty of details. On this project, Mark and Walter are in the process of becoming certified R-Control installers. Not only is this a smart growth project, it is a smart build project that requires the discipline of collaboration. Each member of DeMaesschalck gets this. As designer I have seen there's a lot of detail in this project, which will be considered differently in future projects. It's a humbling experience.

Tony and I first met Fred Jacques and Kevin Arcand from Branch River Plastics (www.branchriver.com) at the Build Boston Convention. Located in the South Coast area, we contacted Branch River Plastics to prepare the first estimate when deciding to use SIPs. We looked at suppliers all over the Northeast and there are quite a few good suppliers to price panels. Branch River has a well-equipped production floor and the R Control system for producing panels. A building system should impact a design, and R Control details helped shape the townhouses.

When finalizing our construction drawings, the entire perimeter of panels in elevation was laid out. Walter and Mark made useful suggestions and pushed us to work with the advantages unique to SIP construction. The 4-foot module of the SIP panel was coordinated with the existing conditions, the intended form, and the available coastal window sizes with the intention of keeping the manufacturing and install as repetitive as possible. 3D representations tied to the shop drawings are a good idea, and even a 1/4" scale model would aid the construction process. (see model)

Our engineered framing supplier is Reliable Truss in New Bedford, who has worked very well with us. Identifying and working with Reliable Truss has been part of the strategy to support local business and support New Bedford. I really appreciate RT's understanding when our small site and trouble with the weather has delayed the shipment of our trusses. Reliable Truss and National Lumber have an extensive facility off exit 5 of Route 140.

The coastal windows arrived on-site Monday. We chose Jeld-Wen windows suggested to us by STOCK Building Supply in Lakeville. Because of the protection they offer, coastal windows cost significantly more than average windows and there are a limited number of suppliers in the Northeast. STOCK provided valuable guidance, because Jeld-Wen offers a good price, clear documentation, and availability in 3-4 weeks. The Smart Growth Residences have been designed to meet newly released updates to the Massachusetts State Building Code for 110mph windspeeds and improved energy performance; another example of smart design and smart investment.

Below is a list of other excellent subcontractors and suppliers we have used from New Bedford and the surrounding area.

Reliable Truss, New Bedford, MA www.reliabletruss.com
Beacon Sales, New Bedford www.beaconsales.com

National Lumber, New Bedford www.national-lumber.com
Franklin Bros, New Bedford, MA (508) 998-8270
Star Glass, New Bedford, MA (508) 995-0166
Jorge Drywall, Inc, North Dartmouth, MA (508) 999-2940
H.R. Cardinal HVAC, Fairhaven, MA (508) 995-5110
JCM Electrical Contractors, Inc., New Bedford, MA (508) 995-0165
Roger Caron II Plumbing, Fairhaven, MA (508) 991-6674
C&M Flooring, New Bedford, MA www.candmfloorcovering.com
S&L Rolloff, New Bedford, MA (508) 996-9939
Santos Masonry, New Bedford, MA (508) 997-3722
Labor Ready Systems, New Bedford, MA www.laborready.com
Stock Building Supply, Lakeville, MA www.stockbuildingsupply.com
Rivet Street Hardware, New Bedford, MA (508) 994-3211

Rogers Paint & Wall Coverings, New Bedford, MA (508) 992-2844
Blue Eagle Printing, South Dartmouth, MA (508) 994-2064

Fairhaven Lumber, Fairhaven, MA www.fairhavenlumber.com

A#1Crane Co. www.a1crane.com

South End Business Association www.southendba.synthasite.com

What's Taking Shape

2009-01-07T10:10:00.006-05:00

A two-story residential addition is being built on top of the commercial building sometimes referred to as the olde "Crystal Market." The residences are side by side townhouses with modern open plans, and this blog has been included on www.livemodern.com website. On this site you can find information and inspiration about all things modern.

The detailed plans are shown below, but the plan will be completely open when the SIP shell is finished being built. At this stage, the layout is adaptable to a range of alternative plans.

Below are the exterior views.

First thoughts of a student on the site

2009-01-07T06:12:00.019-05:00

My name is Thalia Lewis, and I’m the newest team member working with Carol and Tony of effortlessdesign on the eco New Bedford/ Smart Growth on Brock Ave. project. I’m a Masters student at Boston Architectural College, and this is my first internship position in the field. I became involved in the New Bedford project (which has spanned several years) just three weeks ago, so I am climbing a steep and snowy learning curve in order to understand the ins-and-outs of this project. So far, so good. The project is incredibly exciting and unquestionably has the potential to have a profound impact on the New Bedford community. What I don’t know about Smart Growth and community building could fill volumes, but my effort as co-blogger will be to share my on-the-job learning as a participant in the project, hopefully providing some insight for others like me, who are invested in smart, sustainable community development and want become more involved and better informed.

For my first post, Carol asked me to share a bit about what I’ve learned in my initial weeks working on the project. That too, could fill volumes, but I’ll spare you the part about how I should have worn an extra set of long-johns my first day on the site (oy!).

It takes a village...
In just these few weeks, I’ve learned a fair amount about the New Bedford community: its architectural and cultural fabric, its economic triumphs and struggles. I’ve learned about the principles of Smart Growth, and how projects like Smart Growth on Brock Ave. have the potential to radically and rapidly revitalize a community like New Bedford, architecturally and economically. New Bedford already has in place the foundations of what a community needs to flourish economically in an environmentally sustainable way: limited sprawl, walkable neighborhoods, a core of thriving small businesses, a mass-transit connection to the major urban centers.

Most importantly, however, I’ve learned that in much the same way as “it takes a village to raise a child,” it takes a community to re-build a community. Large corporations may provide a certain kind of stimulus to a nation’s economy, but there is tremendous potential at the local level for a community like New Bedford to revitalize its own economy through small business and local investment. This understanding, alongside the notion that community development can be done in a way that is ecologically as well as economically sustainable, is at the heart of the eco New Bedford project.

The local architect has a major role to play in the re-building of a community. We are not simply designers: we are developers, planners, and master builders (as well as advocates, strategists, negotiators, politicians, publicists...). But for small-scale projects Smart Growth on Brock Ave. to have a big impact on the community, the full resources of the community must be mobilized: local architects, local contractors and suppliers, local politicians, local development agencies like the New Bedford Economic Development Council, home-grown advocacy groups like the Buzzard’s Bay Coalition, and equally, local residents (the entrepreneur, the home owner, as well as the neighbourhood kid who shovels the site when it snows). There are many roles to be played. It’s for each of us to decide what our individual role will be in the “smart” process of re-building New Bedford, and communities like it across the nation. My role, for now, is “a student on the site.”

My first day on the Brock Ave. site. Observing the installation of SIPs on the residential units. A highly educational day, which could only have been improved by wearing long-johns. For more information on SIPs, see the Dec. 27, 2008 post: SIPs - Installing Structural Insulated Panels.

ecology – economy

2009-01-04T22:32:00.005-05:00

When I look out over the landscape of South End New Bedford and similar urban village centers, I see plenty of untapped economic potential related to these environments. Often I see underutilized properties with investment potential particularly for the not-too-big owner-investor. Instead of building a dream home with deep impacts on its natural setting, a fascinating building project today involves adding to or rebuilding a nucleus to live. This is what we call smart growth investing. Unique to mixed-use is the ability incorporate income potential with one’s home; a new type of dream house.

Since today’s jobs often include working from home, the choice to live, work, play, and shop all within a few blocks or a very short car ride offers an authentic community lifestyle. Imagine marketing a fantastic neighborhood like the South End of New Bedford to small productive businesses involving the internet, technical solutions, research and management that could chose to locate both home and office all within a walk-able, ocean front, european atmosphere and clearly hip neighborhood. The South Coast has excellent business networks that offer venues for entrepreneurs to discuss strategies unique to the small productive business. Consider the value a bus route adds, and the need for the train connections. The village produces an exceptionally rich lifestyle; one worth serious promotion to long-time residents and newcomers alike.

It seems people seek to build their dreams, and the vision of the green home is gaining a lot of interest. The urban village center is the ideal place to work out this dream. The LEED rating system awards points for locating in established neighborhoods and reusing existing buildings. Points in the game of life are also given for contributing to a community; socially, economically, and ecologically. Construction projects are the experience of a lifetime, and precious investment dollars require a team effort and value driven plans. Be prepared that design services and consultation will reduce costs and increase value. Be inspired to do no less than take back our economy and invigorate free enterprise to restore stability and construct our future way of life.

Contribution to the Neighborhood

2009-01-01T18:22:00.002-05:00

As someone with no formal background in architecture, I was pleased to have the opportunity to see this project in motion as it is being built. It is clear that effortless is combining innovative design with green building practices in a way that serves the community. Their commitment to keep the first floor store open during their build process shows what a contribution this project is to the neighborhood. I look forward to following the continued progress and success of this project.

Sustainable Living Template

2008-12-29T09:54:00.026-05:00

In collaborating with effortlessdesign I am fascinated by the number of interconnections and overlap of common goals between sustainable community development and sustainable buildings. The mind-map below illustrates how design choices that strengthen the community are also good choices for our environment.

effortlessdesign is working to implement the planning objectives of the Coalition for Buzzards Bay (www.savebuzzardsbay.org) and the New Bedford Economic Development Council (www.nbedc.org), and they look forward to future collaborations of strengthening the community with a range of local organizations. Think globally, act locally, and decide to prosper in the New Year!

effortlessdesign is striving to strengthen the Brock Ave neighborhood while practicing green planning principles. Green construction techniques have been implemented, and thinking on a regional scale means that this urban-infill project makes use of mass transit and increases density in an exiting neighborhood with existing infrastructure. Mixed-use planning expands housing stock and improves the quality of commercial space available on Brock Avenue.

Fresh property development revitalizes the community. This section of New Bedford has solid traditional housing stock. The spacious, modern residential units being added above the existing commercial spaces offer a new alternative choice in the charming neighborhood. This project is more than an average infill project, it has the potential to put this block of Brock Ave on the map. New Bedford natives who know what their city offers after living in New York, Providence or Boston will appreciate the edgy design of the residential condos that lend flare and sex appeal to living here.

On one hand this project embodies a humble ambition to strengthen an existing building in a neighborhood that is still up and coming, and yet it creates high design for the rest of us. Making good design accessible to everyone is a core value for effortlessdesign where they use opportunity and efficiency as their guides.

Here at Brock Ave, Carol Fisher and Antonio Pina have not only made good design accessible in a modest community, they have chosen to invest in New Bedford and source building materials from local suppliers to strengthen community and keep revenue in the community. They kept the Quick Mart open to the neighborhood during construction. effortlessdesign is committed to the growth and development of New Bedford and approaches the Brock Avenue project as a model for other SmartGrowth projects in New Bedford.

The new commercial spaces will become a center for the local community and your suggestions for types of tenants for the commercial spaces will help in starting new business. Please vote on the side bar!

SIPs - Installing Structural Insulated Panels

2008-12-27T19:31:00.018-05:00

Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) are one of the green cornerstones of this SmartGrowth project on Brock Avenue.

So what are SIPs and what makes using them a green choice?

SIPs or Structural Insulated Panels, are made from wood and plastic foam.

Like Oreo (tm) cookies SIPs have two rigid panels with a thick light center. The outside faces of the panels are wood sheathing, typically Oriented Strand Board (OSB) or plywood panels with a core of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) in between the the OSB panels. EPS sounds exotic, but it's as common as the packing peanuts used to protect fragile items during shipping. The same EPS beads used to make the peanuts are used to make the SIPs highly insulating core.

Because using SIPs means assembling precut panels rapidly on the jobsite like Legos (tm), the panels must be carefully planned by the designer. Selecting SIPs required the architect to develop the wall construction details with rigorous discipline to ensure that the walls translate easily and efficiently into a panelized system. Before the first panel could be cut at the manufacturer's shop, preliminary assembly drawings, known as shop drawings, were prepared by Branch River (SIPs manufacturer) and approved by effortlessdesign (the architects). Each panel was carefully planned, cut and numbered for ease of assembly.

SIPs are a green choice for this project because shop-building them means less construction waste on the jobsite from cutting down longer pieces of wood used in conventional wood framing. SIPs are also extremely strong eliminating the need for diagonal bracing. Plus there is no need for wall studs at 16 inches on center. So we are talking about one strong wall with less construction material and waste, making for a smart, green choice.

SIPs also improve the thermal performance of the building's walls because the EPS core stops heat from escaping in the winter either by thermal conductance or cold air that typically infiltrates through typical wood-framed construction. The EPS runs the full height and width of the panel and won't let any moisture through the wall and adding a caulked seal at the joint between panels does the job of a traditional air and vapor barriers - two other building materials that can be eliminated just by using SIPs. Insulation doesn't need to be added to the inside or outside of the wall, the walls can be thinner and the floors inside can be bigger and every extra square foot counts on an urban-infill project like this one.

The bottom line? SIPs save time, money and materials and decrease construction waste on the jobsite. Our panels were sourced from a regional supplier and local products require less energy to transport than those building products shipped from far away. The panels will continue to be a green choice for the life of the building because they will dramatically reduce the amount of energy used to heat and cool the building.

Using SIPs is a smart, green choice because it drastically reduces the embodied energy required to make the building and cuts amount of energy the building will consume for heating and cooling. Reducing embodied energy and the energy required for occupant comfort are key LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) principles that are part of the SmartGrowth logic that make this project environmentally sustainable.

Watch how SIPs save time and labor, snapping together like legos in this video: Flight of the SIPs!

Posting to this Blog

2008-12-22T17:47:00.004-05:00

Always remember it is fun to learn new things, even if it takes a couple tries. If you would like to post on this blog, send an email to carol@effortlessdesign.com. If you are connected to the New Bedford Smart Growth Community, you'll be sent an invitation to post. Otherwise feel free to leave comments. Stay tuned for the survey we will be launching soon.

I am glad I could help my Mom. I let her test this out on my email account, but do not expect me to hang around for long.

Project Background

2008-12-14T12:51:00.003-05:00

The South New Bedford neighborhood is a unique urban environment with expansive views, ample recreation, a vibrant diverse population, and mild temperatures. As the area waits for the commuter train to activate service (tracks & facilities are in place), it remains unrecognized as a beachfront village with friendly bungalows and well-kept triple deckers.

Our project on Brock Avenue is testing a number of concepts namely the creation of a neighborhood “hot spot” that improves the economic prospects of small business located there, and funding the rehab of a deteriorated commercial building with the development of two efficient yet spirited residences above.

It is our experience that developing older buildings can bolster the local economy providing good jobs to people not drawn to more professional sectors. We believe that developing construction skills and craft keeps an important knowledge base alive. Since 2001 we have consistently invested in our employees training them in range of construction techniques. Renovating buildings creates wealth, and design/planning is critical in achieving that possibility.

Our demonstration project involves current Urban Redevelopment design values known as Smart Growth. The site is located on a bus route to downtown, with an oceanfront park across the street. The new residential component increases density at the neighborhood scale and re-invigorates an existing commercial block. Our interest in this project began when curating the Boston Architectural College’s Shelter & Beyond Exhibit. Infill of underutilized urban areas, particularly in a culturally and enviromentally rich community like New Bedford, is a desirable alternative to sprawl. With the promise of commuter rail to the south coast, we focused on commercial redevelopment with efficient housing.

During the rehabilitation phase all of the construction debris was sorted, and engineered wood products are used consistently throughout. The existing Quik Mart stayed open every single day during construction. Construction of the second phase meets the requirements of LEED certification. Structural Insulated Panels with an Insulated Exterior Finishing System (EIFS) completely stops air infiltration and provides a building envelope 10% more efficient than required by the current Massachusetts energy code. Shear wall design and coastal windows meet the 110 mph wind speed. Domestic hot water will be provided using solar panels, and energy efficient lighting, heating and cooling are planned.

Clearly there is a lot happening on Brock Avenue, and the goal of this blog is to provide more details to the background description given in this first entry.

Before and After Photos

2008-12-14T11:57:00.009-05:00

The banner of this blog shows the planned development for a mixed-use smart growth on Brock Avenue.

Photo from 2005.

Phase I Improvements