Circular Saver: Water, Soil, and Pollinators

6018 N Kenmore Ave, Chicago IL

Circular Saver is an invitation to reimagine how we manage water, restore soil, and support life in the City. By turning a single address into a teaching tool, 6018North hopes to inspire collective action across Chicago to build greener, healthier, and more resilient neighborhoods—one yard at a time.

Green Infrastructure Highlights at 6018North:

1. Green Roofs:
6018North is partnering with LiveRoof and Loyola University students to install 725 sq ft of green roofs using locally grown native plants on the building’s front porch and garage. This collaborative project promotes biodiversity and hands-on environmental learning.

2. Rainwater Harvesting:
A new rainwater management system will capture, store, and reuse stormwater from seven downspouts, turning overflow risks into a sustainable water source for gardens while relieving pressure on the sewer system.

3. Permeable Pavement:
The replacement of a flood-prone concrete driveway ribbon with permeable pavement will reduce runoff and serve as a model for eco-friendly urban surfaces, following Chicago’s Green Alley design principles.

4. Soil Restoration and Pollinator Habitat Enhancement:

6018North is revitalizing its outdoor spaces by creating a phytoremediation garden using native plants in the front yard, side lot, and two parkways to detoxify Chicago’s typically contaminated urban soil. This long-term, low-cost process also creates rich pollinator habitats and offers a DIY model for neighbors to replicate.

The project includes planting serviceberry trees—an early food source for pollinators—and a native prairie garden. Unlike traditional grass lawns, native plants have deep roots that absorb stormwater and reduce runoff, helping mitigate flooding.

To further manage water, a bioswale will be installed at the yard’s lowest point to catch runoff and eliminate sidewalk puddles, improving accessibility for neighbors and creating a more resilient, functional landscape.