Slipstream partners with local utility to make diverse multi-family community net-zero in Madison, WI

The Greenbush neighborhood is one of Madison’s most culturally diverse communities. Three hundred of its residents live in the Triangle/Monona Bay neighborhood in the heart of downtown Madison. The Bayview Foundation wanted to provide modern, affordable housing for their community - not only lower utility bills but build net-zero energy buildings. The Bayview Foundation partnered with Horizon Development to expand to 500 residents in two new apartment buildings and eight townhome buildings.

The neighborhood’s diversity makes it culturally rich: 50% Hmong; 15% Vietnamese, Cambodian or Laotian; 20% Latino; 13% African American and 2% white. Bayview/Horizon used a “design justice process” which involved residents to refine the project’s use of color, natural light, sheltered porches, garden space, and more. The project replaces the 102 existing, obsolete townhouses. Construction will be completed in phases so that residents aren’t displaced.

Madison Gas & Electric funded Slipstream to help the Bayview Foundation and Horizon Development reach their sustainability goals. Our team also proved that great design and net zero can – and should - coexist in affordable housing.

Slipstream facilitated setting energy saving goals, maximized the potential for solar PV arrays, developed a passive envelope to reduce heating and cooling, and established a fair and economical utility plan for residents.

Watch our video and read more about this project.