Botanic Garden Meise - greenhouse complex for conservation of plants

Construction of a new greenhouse complex for endangered plants

Case passport

Location
Meise
Country
Belgium
Type

Botanical greenhouse

Research centres

Surf
7600 m²
Architect
NU Architectuuratelier - Gent
Services
Study, Concept, Design, Production, Technology, Installation, Finish

Description

The Meise Botanic Garden is an internationally renowned knowledge center dedicated to plant diversity research and conservation.

As the constructor of the new greenhouse complex, we not only built the greenhouses but also installed advanced technologies that contribute to the preservation of plant diversity and the protection of endangered plant species. The project marks the completion of an important development and renovation phase, with a strong focus on sustainability and ecology

  • The Green Ark: Sustainable and ecological design

    We are proud of the realization of the greenhouses for 'The Green Ark,' an innovative greenhouse complex that houses over 10,000 plant species from various climate zones around the world. As the constructor, we not only built the structure itself but also integrated various technical systems that are essential for the preservation of these valuable plant collections. The greenhouses are designed to support the diverse climatic needs of the plants by creating different climate zones with the appropriate temperature, humidity, and light conditions.

  • Advanced technologies in modern greenhouse construction

    The new greenhouses are of the Venlo type, covering an area of 7,600 m². In terms of construction, The Green Ark is a true feat, with twenty-two sections/greenhouses ranging from 4, 6, to 10 meters in height. However, the technologies we have implemented make these greenhouses even more impressive.

    Thanks to four different temperature regimes and varying humidity and light conditions, both humid and dry climate zones can be created. In short, state-of-the-art, energy-efficient greenhouses.

  1. 9 climate sections with 4 temperature regimes, each combined with either dry or humid climate
  2. 2 small quarantine sections where new plants can be isolated for monitoring diseases and pests
  3. 3 sections for research projects
  4. 1 propagation greenhouse technical room
  5. 1 storage room
  6. 2 corridors & workspaces
  7. 2 orangery sections, one of which is accessible to the public

    Rainwater from the greenhouse roof is collected in three water basins, which together can store 1,000 m³ of water.

  • Smart technologies: from climate control to water conservation

    The following installations were provided: 

  1. PRIVA climate computer and electrical systems, which measure and regulate the cultivation, orangery and research departments in terms of temperature, humidity, light levels, leaf temperature, energy radiation, etc. 
  2. Svensson screen installations for light and/or energy + humidity control.
  3. HPS+LED and Philips Greenpower LED lighting.
  4. Heating installations above the plants and under the tables.
  5. Water installation with 3 circuits: rainwater, osmosis water and city water.
  6. Humidification and sprinkler systems.
  7. Various types of ventilation systems.
  8. Growing tables + growing tents + rainwater storage basins.
  • Sustainable building and education: A future-proof accessible project

    The greenhouse complex is designed to help the botanic garden become a global reference for scientific research. Four sections can be explored from the outside via a publicly accessible space. One section is even fully accessible to the public.

  • Conclusion: Our contribution to the sustainable preservation of plant species

    With the realization of The Green Ark, our construction and technical expertise has helped position the Meise Botanic Garden as a leading player in global plant diversity research. By integrating sustainable technologies and smart installations, we have created a greenhouse complex that not only contributes to the preservation of endangered plant species but also serves as an inspiring example of how ecology and technology can come together for a more sustainable future.

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