Yale Divinity School Regenerative Village

McLennan Design created a master plan, framework, and fundraising package, in conjunction with Bruner/Cott, for the Yale University Divinity School in their efforts to build the first Living Building certified university residences in the world. The Regenerative Village at YDS will set the bar for environmental performance in university student housing and provide a model for religious institutions to apply ecotheology in their own communities and places of worship. The project includes multiple dormitories, a chapel, community spaces and gardens, and will aspire to Living Community Challenge certification.

This new residential complex for living and learning was designed to demonstrate environmental leadership at the highest level and serve as a replicable model for other divinity schools, places of worship, and academic institutions worldwide. The project features 150 compact and efficient housing units centered around vibrant community spaces, including a welcome center, communal kitchens and dining areas, lecture halls, gardens, meditation and study areas, lounges, a fitness center, a café, and an interfaith sacred space for worship. 

Phase 1 of the Living Village was just completed in 2025 and the first students have now moved in.