This is an unbuilt project what was part of my Masters Thesis in 2006.  

The goal of the project was to integrate renewable energy, natural stormwater and wastewater treatment within a 'normative' Washington DC neighborhood.  We wanted to create a power, water and waste infrastructure that was not only sustainable but regenerative.  We wanted it to be publicly visible and beautiful, and to fit comfortably within its urban context.  

Rooftop solar panels on both public and private buildings are connected to a community microgrid. Streets channel stormwater to collector raingardens integrated throughout the hardscape paths, which in turn lead to two large wetlands that border N-S and E-W boulevards.  In addition to providing opportunities for diverse natural beauty, these features filter and moderate stormwater on-site.  Rooftop gardens on buildings lining the boulevards help create a vibrant three-dimensional urban landscape.

Blackwater from the community is connected to a series of Living Machines (TM) designed as large "lanterns" arranged in combination with public buildings (library, school, community center) to form wayfinding networks.  

The crown jewel of the project is the community center, a large greenhouse containing the main wastewater treatment facility for the neighborhood.  Here again, the Living Machine (TM) technology is used to treat blackwater using self-contained ecosystems.  The various treatment tanks are covered in plants.  The system has been demonstrated elsewhere and creates no unpleasant odors or public health risks.  Essentially, the wastewater infrastructure becomes an indoor garden where residents and visitors can relax in year-round comfort.    Much of the support machinery is displayed opening in a large glazed forebay adjacent to the main public plaza.  

The community center also houses an auditorium and an educational center dedicated to monitoring and explaining the operation of the Living Machine.  

This project won the Thesis Prize in December 2006.