This new condo was built with 41 percent green material. - Photos by Ashley Troutman

Craigie Street condos focus on ‘green’ ideals
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By Ashley Troutman
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The new condominiums at 42 Craigie St. are covered in environmentally-conscious, green ideals – literally.
“Anything that we could use that was recycled, we did,” said developer and Ward 5 Alderman Sean O’Donovan. The entire exterior of the building is made out of a refurbished cement called hearty plank, eliminating the need for vinyl or aluminum siding.
The building at Craigie Street is approximately 16,000 square feet, and was made with 41 percent “green” material, surpassing the city’s 25 percent requirement.
Construction started about 16 months ago, utilizing a new type of block for the condominium’s driveway. The pavement allows water to seep into the ground, and prevents puddles. A $65,000 drain system was installed in the condominium to prevent any future flooding issues.
The condominium has brand new systems, it’s all electric, and all of the appliances are energy efficient. Unlike many properties in Somerville, there wasn’t any asphalt used in construction, and it’s surrounded by walkways.
O’Donovan, collaborated with Felix Consalvo to coordinate the development of the condominium, and Peter Quinn worked as the architect. O’Donovan said, “It’s just wild, you look at it and think I want to live here. The materials around you are all green, you just want to stay.”
The construction is complete and 3 of the 8 units in this residential condo complex have been sold.