












Hydrophilic Hoophouse
The Hydrophilic Hoophouse deploys common materials toward a typological transformation of a common, agricultural vernacular assembly. Standard hoophouses have a strong tradition of affordable and efficient assembly techniques that establish micro-climates for extended season horticulture. This project challenges several standard practices, and in so doing, advances a structural and material approach that integrates a new rainwater collection technique. As an outcome, the hoophouse typology is updated through the environmental consideration of light, air and water, as expressed through a common, yet rich material palette.
Project Details
Project Location | Ann Arbor, Michigan
Status | Complete, 2014
Principal in Charge | Jen Maigret, AIA
Client | Matthaei Botanical Gardens
Sponsor | Office of the Vice President for Research (OVPR), University of Michigan
Structural Engineer | Peter von Buelow
Hoop Fabrication / Installation at Matthaei Botanical Gardens | Tim Risk, Matthew Denner
Project Team | Andrew Wolking, Catherine Baldwin, Maria Capota, Kayla Lim, Sen Liu, Paul Tierman