Woolpert honored for design of The Conservatory

February 24, 2006

The American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) of Ohio recently awarded the architecture firm of Woolpert, Inc. of Cincinnati the 2006 Engineering Excellence Award for comprehensive design of The Conservatory, located at Miami University Hamilton.

The ACEC program booklet describes the architectural features of The Conservatory, “The unique aluminum and masonry building, distinguished by it slighted cupola, has an environmental system that uses grow lights, vents, shades, fans, hydronic radiant heaters and fog system to maintain five distinct environmental zones. These components are controlled through a microprocessor that receives information from zone sensors and an on-site weather station, while the building’s heating and cooling systems are tied into a campus-wide building automation network. Outside, the building is complemented by extensive lighting and landscaping.”

A gift from the Richard J. Fitton family of Hamilton, The Conservatory is a 7,000 square foot multi-use facility, consisting of educational, research and public display spaces. It is unique in not only its architectural beauty, but it will house the largest fully documented academic collection of exotic plants in the area. In addition, the exterior grounds will be a celebration of Ohio's native plants.