Case Study
Habitat Home Richmond, VA
Krystal Douglas’ number one priority is providing for her children. A single mother of five children ranging in age from 4 to 21, Krystal wants nothing more than to provide her children with a safe, comfortable, and affordable place to grow and play. Currently, the Douglas family lives in a small, rundown 3-bedroom apartment with very little room. Ty’Kira, Krystal’s youngest daughter, suffers from severe asthma, which doctors believe is caused by the carpet in their current apartment. Krystal generally has to bring her to the emergency room at least three times per year because of her condition.
About this Home
- New Construction Habitat for Humanity Home in Richmond
- EarthCraft-certified in 2018
- High-efficiency heat pump
- Projected HERS Index: 74
- High-effiency heat pump
- Blown in R-15 wall insulation
- Spray foam insulation on the roof slopes
Project Team
- Builder: Richmond Metro Habitat for Humanity
- Technical Advisor: Neil Sullivan
- Certified by: Viridiant
Thanks to a partnership between Richmond Metro Habitat for Humanity and Viridiant, the Douglas family will move into their EarthCraft-certified home in 2018. The new home, located at Kansas, is a brick cape originally built in 1948. The house underwent extensive renovations, including insulation of the exterior walls, installation of new Energy Star windows, and attic insulation. Additionally, the vented crawl space was converted into a conditioned crawl space where the HVAC equipment and ductwork are now housed, ensuring they remain in a controlled environment.
For lower-income families, lower repair and utility costs can be the difference between stability and constantly searching for affordable housing. The EarthCraft certification, along with its sustainable construction techniques, not only reduces the environmental impact but also significantly cuts energy consumption. This means lower utility bills for the Douglas family, giving them some much-needed financial flexibility. Every dollar saved can help create a more secure and comfortable life for the family.
“Owning my own home will mean a lot to me and my family. We can
feel safe, secure, and have our own space. It’s going to bring love and
excitement to our lives to have a place called home.”
Krystal Douglas,
EarthCraft Homeowner
The benefits of the new home extend beyond financial relief. For families like the Douglases, sustainable construction can also improve their overall quality of life. With reduced energy costs and an eco-friendly design, the house provides a healthier living environment. This is especially important for families trying to maintain a stable household while managing tight budgets.
And for Ty’Kira, the impact will be life-changing. EarthCraft’s eco-friendly materials and construction techniques ensure that the air she breathes in her new home is clean and healthy. This improvement is expected to have a profound effect on her asthma, reducing her health complications and emergency visits, and giving her a chance to thrive in a safe and supportive environment.
Want something similar at your property?
Let us help you achieve outstanding results like those showcased in this case study.