In 2010, Shanghai hosted the World Expo in the Pudong district, transforming a site that once housed a coal power plant and steelworks. Over a decade later, the preserved steel framework of a historic industrial hall has become the centerpiece for the “Expo Cultural Park Greenhouse Garden,” designed by Austria’s Delugan Meissl Associated Architects (DMAA).
Completed in 2023, this project spans 41,000 square meters under the towering steel skeleton, housing four organically designed pavilions. These spaces replicate various ecosystems, from lush rainforests to arid deserts, featuring rare and endangered plants. The greenhouse also integrates vertical gardens and spaces for rotating exhibitions, creating a multifunctional environment for leisure, education, and conservation.
Energy Efficiency Through Design
A standout feature of the Greenhouse Garden is its focus on sustainability. Unlike traditional greenhouses requiring extensive artificial lighting and climate control, the DMAA team opted for single-pane glass windows. This choice maximized natural light penetration and eliminated the need for energy-intensive artificial lighting, aligning with the project’s net-zero energy goal.
The greenhouse relies on passive cooling systems with operable windows integrated into the perforated roof structure for natural ventilation. Photovoltaic modules installed on-site generate renewable energy, supporting the facility’s operations. The pavilion structures encompass a volume of 340,000 cubic meters, with ceilings reaching up to 35 meters, providing ample space for diverse plant species and their specific microclimates.
A Global Model for Urban Green Spaces
Urban greenhouses like the Greenhouse Garden demonstrate the potential of combining architectural innovation with environmental consciousness. The project sets a precedent for revitalizing industrial areas into biodiverse sanctuaries, addressing urban sustainability challenges. Its integration of natural cooling and renewable energy solutions highlights how large-scale developments can harmonize with ecological needs.
A Collaborative Vision
The planning began in 2019, and construction, which commenced in early 2020, faced global challenges yet remained on schedule. The project showcases the ability of global partnerships to achieve architectural and ecological excellence, making it a landmark for urban sustainability in the 21st century.
The Greenhouse Garden in Shanghai exemplifies the future of urban ecological integration, transforming industrial spaces into sustainable green havens. With innovative use of passive design, renewable energy, and biodiversity conservation, this Austrian-designed marvel provides a blueprint for urban developers and architects worldwide, proving that heritage, innovation, and nature can coexist.
