reating an interior environment that is comfortable for people and, at the same time, fertile for the plants was critical. The result is a careful balance of passive (daylight, passive solar heating, natural ventilation) and mechanical (geothermal, fans, electric lighting) comfort systems. Plants growing in the interior lagoons required very precise solar energy levels on both their south and north exposures—the building section, windows, and skylights were carefully designed as an integrated system, meeting those needs while creating a memorable human experience.

Owner & Occupancy

  • Owned by Omega Institute for Holistic Studies, Corporation, nonprofit
  • Typically occupied by 2 people, 20 hours per person per week; and 350 visitors per week, 1 hour per visitor per week

Team & Process

Predesign
Predesign was underway prior to the design firm’s involvement in the project; the general program was developed and the choice of engineered biological wastewater treatment system technology had been made. Through rigorous dialogue with the client, a clear vision emerged that included an expanded facility for education, a regenerative approach to the landscape, and a desire to meet the Living Building Challenge. The idea that the OCSL could be not only about cleaning the water of Omega’s campus but also have an impact beyond their boundaries began to take shape.

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