Historic UK Hostel Turned Into Super Green Residential Housing

This historic lodging house in Leeds, UK was at one time used to house seasonal workers, but it has undergone a miraculous transformation into a super green residential complex, complete with a <a href="http://inhabitat.com/energy/wind" target="_blank">wind turbine</a>, solar hot water panels, water recycling, and an innovative program that allows residents to monitor their personal energy and water use through their TV. <a href="http://www.greenhouseleeds.co.uk" target="_blank">Greenhouse</a> is located a short 10 minute walk outside of Leed's city center and it even offers residents plot of land down the street to grow their own fruits and veggies.

The building was formerly a hostel built for seasonal workers in Leeds back in 1939. It has since been remodeled and updated into a eco residential complex.

Located just a 10 minute walk from Leeds city center, the Greenhouse has 166 various sized apartments plus a number of spaces for offices.

The building was abandoned until 2004, when Citu began redeveloping the brick building. The renovation included adding a two-story topper to the building and a fresh coat of white paint amongst many other things.

A ground source heat pump is coupled with heat exchangers inside the building to provide energy efficient heating and cooling.

In the center of the building is a landscaped community courtyard for everyone to use.

A wind turbine mounted on the roof generates enough power for the shared lighting and elevators.

A rooftop solar thermal system provides hot water for the complex.

The development also includes a on-site gym, a cafe/deli, community car sharing, and bike storage.

The interiors of the apartments are furnished with eco-friendly materials as well as locally-sourced materials like 100% British wool carpets.

Residents can also monitor their energy and water use direct from their TV.

Ground plots are available to residents who want to grow their own fruits and veggies.

A bike storage system sits underground in the parking garage.

The original building was built in 1939 and was considered revolutionary at the time for providing improved housing for seasonal workers.