Flow: In Pursuit of a Living Building

An exploration into the work of the Omega Center for Sustainable Living, as it tests what is possible with regenerative design and the outcome when sustainability is moved to the top of the list of criteria.

Flow chronicles the Omega Center for Sustainable Living at the Omega Institute for Holistic Studies in Rhinebeck, New York. Designed by BNIM Architects, the OCSL embraces the concept of sustainable design and construction to the fullest. It is certified as a "Living Building," striving to have a net zero impact. Built in 2009, the center is an anchor for the groups' environmental efforts, and brings together state-of-the-art energy and waste systems, efforts to work with area farms and organic growers, and a teaching facility that demonstrates local solutions to global problems. It's unique location on one of the most important watersheds in the world the 13,400-sq mile Hudson River watershed basin informs its dedication to water quality and responsible stewardship.