When it comes to being green, Ballard has just upped its game. The recently opened Greenfire Campus is something of a statement, heralding that Ballard is no longer just a gritty enclave of Scandinavians and fishermen (they're still around) but a gentrified, environmentally-conscious, hip destination.

The campus includes a five-story apartment building with 18 apartment homes and a four-story, 18,000 square foot office building with retail on the ground floor. Thirty-two parking spaces are provided, including a parking space for each residential unit.

Living on the campus is far from affordable housing. The cheapest room, a 510-599 sq. ft. studio loft, costs $1,695-$2,095. A 1,479-1,521 sq. ft. two-bedroom costs $3,995.

But for those with the wallet big enough and the heart of a thoroughbred environmentalist, the Greenfire Campus may be just the right place.

For energy conversation it features geothermal energy, solar power, natural ventilation, passive cooling, daylighting, radiant heat, super insulation and more.

For the green thumb, there are green roofs, community gardens, indoor edible plants, biofiltration and a large tank for rainwater harvesting.

Most materials are locally sourced and art throughout the building was made by local artists.

“We love the history of Ballard as a city within a city and wanted to play a part in the new, sustainable Ballard,” said Ray Johnston, Johnston Architects. “Greenfire Campus is located in the central district of Ballard and is a campus within an urban center. The center of Ballard is growing with blocks of high density housing and Greenfire will turn asphalt into a natural environment and provide a visual relief between the taller buildings. Ballard’s density provides the perfect backdrop for this model of ecological design.”

The Ballard News-Tribune had an opportunity recently to tour around the building and take some pictures. You can view those by clicking on the main picture above or the thumbnails below.

For more information, visit www.greenfirecampus.com

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