Legat Architects
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Water Responsibility

The Greenhouse Facility uses water from three sources: primary (i.e., rainwater stored in underground tanks), secondary (i.e., well water), tertiary (i.e., city water). Additional water-conserving features include the following:

  • Drip irrigation
  • Ebb and flow benches (pictured)
  • Hydroponics (growing without soil)
  • Pulse watering for hanging plants
  • Sanitary treatment system that supports outdoor native vegetation

Passive Ventilation

A passive ventilation system automatically opens roofs to moderate house temperatures and reduce energy consumption.

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Multipurpose Classroom

Tables and chairs can easily be rolled out of the multipurpose classroom. A custom 8’ by 8’ garage door allows small machinery to enter the space for mechanics courses.

Hydroponics

A hydroponics system (i.e., growing plants without soil) allows the college to produce every 50 days the same yield that would take 72 days outdoors.

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Respect for the Region

Materials and design respond to the JJC campus and the city of Joliet, Illinois: flat roofs, rectilinear façade, beige ground face concrete block.