This former 2 family home in West Cambridge is a hospice owned by The Visiting Nurse association ( VNA ).  The building was renovated by S + H Construction completely inside and out and a large addition at the back added bedrooms and a commercial elevator. 

It is the first such facility to be registered for Leadership for Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification in Massachusetts.  The LEED program is a third-party verification of a high standard of sustainable construction incorporating EnergyStar certification for low energy use.

Chilton House has been functioning as a residential hospice facility since 1991.  This renovation was a way to enhance and expand the quality of service that VNA can provide to patients. Chilton House will be re-opened for new patients in the beginning of 2010. 

While the facility is designed for patient care, the building is of typical residential construction and has been made to feel as much like a residence as possible.  The key green building techniques and materials are appropriate for adoption in a regular residential setting.  

Chilton House's sustainable construction features include:

• Geothermal heating and cooling integrated with advanced ductless air units
• Solar hot water
• High performance air sealing and insulation
• Low water consumption fixtures
• Sustainably harvested wood materials
• Energy efficient fixtures and systems including lighting, elevator, and controls
• Non-toxic materials including paints, flooring, and adhesives
• Durability strategies for low-maintenance functionality
• Heat recovery ventilation
• Sustainable landscape with native plants
• Integrated design/build process
• Low-waste construction practices