Energy- and water-efficient systems bring Joliet Junior College Horticultural Sciences department new ways of growing, conserving, and teaching
The Joliet Junior College (JJC) Greenhouse Facility is the first community college (and second of any college or university) greenhouse to achieve LEED-NC certification from the U.S. Green Building Council.
The 11,900-square-foot facility contains three greenhouses (warm, cool, cold), a multipurpose classroom, a head house for potting, a pesticide storage room, and shared office space. A passive ventilation system automatically opens roofs to moderate house temperatures and reduce energy consumption.
The Greenhouse Facility uses water from three sources: primary (rainwater stored in underground tanks), secondary (well water), and tertiary (city water). Additional water-conserving features include drip irrigation, ebb and flow benches, hydroponics (growing without soil), pulse watering for hanging plants, and a sanitary treatment system that supports outdoor native vegetation.
Project Awards
LEED-NC certified, U.S. Green Building Council
Excellence in Engineering, ASHRAE IL
Most Notable Chicago-area Buildings, The Architect’s Newspaper
