Modular Design
Info
The greenhouses were an interdisciplinary collaboration
between all members of the Synthesis team. By designing with
the plant in mind, the team chose to focus on how each aspect
of the greenhouse would affect the environment being
created. The team first chose to implement a closed system
greenhouse which would ultimately give Growing Power more
control over their facilities and allow them to utilize resources
to their full potential. By using this closed system it allowed the
team to design for natural cooling and condensation collection
within each greenhouse model producing a more efficient
facility. In addition to the natural cooling and condensation
collection, grow lights have also been implemented in the
space to supplement the light the plants receive throughout
the year.
In order to create a modular design, the correct materials
needed to be chosen and implemented. For the greenhouse,
the team chose to use a steel structure with polycarbonate
glazing. These materials and modules were arranged in a way
that allows the plants to receive the most light possible and for
the owner to have as much growing space as can be provided.
Each module is approximately 19’-2” by 20’ and contains its
own source of natural cooling.
The southern daylight is shared by both the plants and the occupants inside. This allows for less needed electric light energy consumption and direct emersion from the classroom into the greenhouses.