Niagara College

Horticulture & Environmental Sciences Innovation Centre

Opportunity

Niagara College required a next-generation greenhouse facility that could support advanced applied research, industry collaboration, and hands-on student learning through its Horticultural & Environmental Sciences Innovation Centre (HESIC). Originally planned as a renovation and expansion of the existing teaching greenhouse, the project evolved when it became clear the existing building and site could not support the College’s long-term research, operational, and sustainability goals.

The new facility needed to provide flexible, independently controlled research environments, modern lab and growing spaces, and infrastructure capable of adapting to future technologies and expansion. At the same time, the project aimed to showcase sustainable greenhouse operations, maximize daylight and environmental performance, and create a visible research hub integrated into the campus environment.

Response

The final design includes five independently controlled research bays, a clean lab, vertical grow room, administrative and meeting spaces, and a central service corridor designed to support future expansion while creating strong visual connections between research, learning, and public-facing spaces.

The facility integrates a high-performance building envelope, low-temperature in-slab heating infrastructure, advanced environmental controls, and material selections that support both durability and sustainability goals. Locally sourced Shou Sugi Ban cladding, Canadian-made products, exposed systems, and flexible utility infrastructure reinforce the project’s focus on environmental responsibility, operational efficiency, and long-term adaptability for evolving research needs.