Climate-friendly greenhouse design at New York Botanical Garden
A lightweight mobile climate device reimagines the greenhouses of the future for plants and people.
1Innovative Greenhouse Design
Greenhouse Prototype 2, exhibited at the New York Botanical Garden, combines architectural design with scientific research. This lightweight mobile device creates a controlled microclimate for plants and people, rethinking the traditional greenhouse concept.
2Material and Design
The project uses recycled aluminum framing from a greenhouse exhibited at Syracuse University in 2025. Perforated aluminum panels are shaped to reference the curved glass roof of the historic Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, designed to become covered with vegetation over time.
3Scientific Collaboration
Designers Hermine Demaël and Stephen Zimmerer developed a large-scale research drawing in collaboration with scientists at NYBG. Etched onto aluminum panels, the drawing abstracts microscopic leaf vein patterns to visualize plant nutrient transport systems.
4Climate Control Systems
Through passive airflow, shading, and misting systems, the prototype regulates temperature and humidity while maintaining an open relationship with its surroundings. The suspended misting system, embedded in an aluminum channel, creates ideal conditions for plants.
5Interdisciplinary Approach
The project integrates architectural design, landscape architecture, and climate change research. Dr. Evelyn Beaury's work on species migration combines with the design team's expertise to create an innovative habitat refuge concept.
6Sustainable Future
This prototype illuminates the future of permeable greenhouse structures that can support species survival under changing climate conditions. Using recycled materials and low-energy systems, it offers new models for sustainable agriculture and botanical conservation.