Omni Ecosystems

For the seventh straight year, #OmniRewild was pleased to help Studio Gang with plant identification for their annual #greenroof #bioblitz. This #OmniMeadow has been managed to maximize #biodiversity and is home to dozens of native plant species including several new arrivals in 2024. Experts in insects, birds, fungi, and bats also lent their expertise on a gorgeous summer day in #Chicago

Just like any plant, wildlife needs access to water to survive on a #greenroof (one of the reasons we advocate for automated #irrigation for a vegetative assembly using #OmniInfinityMedia). We’ve seen a few #DIY water features from our clients over the years, mainly to attract more birds and butterflies. Most exposed roof membranes have a few low spots, often near drains, that will hold some standing water after a storm offering a drink for pigeons and geese—and possibly a breeding pond for mosquitos. To ensure clean, running water for the local fauna, consider a recirculating #waterfeature like the one highlighted in this recent article by Living Lands' Cynthia Pohl for Green Roofs for Healthy Cities: https://lnkd.in/gj5MhYqw A fabulous way to help #democratizenature!

In late August one of our favorite #greenroof plants, Chamaecrista fasciculata, is busy blooming and forming seedpods. Also known as Partridge Pea, this native annual offers pollen for bees and is a host plant for several sulfur butterflies. It also fixes atmospheric nitrogen, so if you leave plants to decay in place after completing their lifecycle, they can help feed neighboring vegetation. #OmniRewild includes Partridge Pea in our #OmniMeadow Seed Mix, along with eight other nitrogen-fixing species, to help maintain long-term fertility and lessen the need for synthetic fertilizer. And because it’s pretty. #sustainability #biodiversity #OmniInfinityMedia #flowersonfriday

So exciting to see construction progress at Fifth City Commons. We can't wait to see the lush planting design being installed this fall!

Congratulations to our recently promoted team members! Thank you for your hard work, creative contributions, and dedication to #OmniWorkshop. We are proud to promote from within our organization. Peter Graves to Director of Landscape Architecture Adam De Foor-White to Associate Director of Landscape Architecture #Omniites #landscapearchitecturecareers #landscapearchitecture #OmniEcosystemsPromotions

Looking for something to do this weekend? Check out the new North American Prairie Aviary at Brookfield Zoo Chicago! Designed by #OmniWorkshop and Booth Hansen, the new enclosure incorporates native plantings and water features for our feathered friends.

Exciting news for Chicago’s urban landscape! The #WildMile floating eco-park along the Chicago River has expanded and National Geographic recently highlighted all the reasons why this urban oasis is a must-see.   The Wild Mile isn't just a beautiful addition to our cityscape—it’s also a critical ecological upgrade. This wetland ecosystem enhances water quality, provides vital habitats for native species, and reduces urban heat island effects. Part of the ingenuity of the Wild Mile Framework Vision is the modular design that allows for gradual, phased implementation as funding is secured. With the new expansion, the Wild Mile will soon feature even more greenery, wetlands, and innovative stormwater management systems. The expanded boardwalk space promises fresh opportunities to observe and enjoy the Chicago River’s natural beauty.   Dive into the full #NationalGeographic article at the link to learn how the Wild Mile and other project sites are returning our industrial riverfront into a thriving ecosystem: https://lnkd.in/dvJ6yV77   #ChicagoRiver #UrbanGreenSpace #SustainableCity #GreenInfrastructure #ExploreChicago #OmniWorkshop Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) Urban Rivers

There may be no better place to watch the Chicago Air and Water Show than a #greenroof (at least the air part). Sometimes we see cool boats, too. Jets, helicopters, and drones are always fun, but nothing beats the #blueangels!

Excited for Illinois Green Alliance's Road to Zero program series! The next program in the series on August 9th takes a deep dive into Fifth City Commons—an affordable housing development in Chicago’s East Garfield Park built to Passive House standards. The project underscores the momentum for getting Illinois' built environment closer and closer to #netzero.   Over four years in the making, Fifth City Commons was part of the C40 Reinventing Cities Competition that encouraged cities across the globe to offer vacant land for sustainable and net-zero development. Check out @IllinoisGreenAlliance if you're interested in attending. The program series is a great way to share with #building professionals and civic leaders the latest happening with sustainability. And it's a great way to get ready for the annual Getting To Zero Illinois Summit later this Fall! Miranda Wright Phius #greenbuilding Perkins&Will POAH Communities Molly Meyer dbHMS Sachin Anand

#ThrowbackThursday to an inspiring #GreytoGreenChicago conference! We’re still buzzing from the energy at this year’s conference, where our team had the pleasure of hosting the Blacks In Green and Green Roofs for Healthy Cities event right here at our #Bronzeville headquarters.   The event was a true celebration of #greeninfrastructure and the pursuit of environmental and economic justice. Highlights included fascinating tours of landmarks like #TheSaltShed and Logan Square Neighborhood Association, plus enriching discussions with thought leaders like Lydia Link of Studio Gang and Kevin Crist of Intrinsic Landscaping, Inc.. Of course, we capped off the day with an unforgettable happy hour on our #roofdeck.   Omni can’t wait to see what’s in store for future Grey to Green conferences! Together, let’s continue to #DemocratizeNature and make a lasting impact. 📸: Scott Shigley #GreenRoofs #UrbanGreenery #SustainableChicago #HappyHour #GreenInfrastructure Siplast American Hydrotech, Inc.