The Tropical Greenhouse - Central Experimental farm - Integrated Project Dossier (2019)

The Tropical Greenhouse is also identified as Building 50 on the Canadian Government’s Experimental Farms property. Throughout the years, the Greenhouse has been used to conduct research which otherwise couldn’t be conducted outdoors in the harsh Ottawa weather. The research done in the Greenhouse has allowed for development in the breeding of plants, and many other research projects. The knowledge of agriculture and plants in Canada is affected by this Greenhouse. Its construction date in the early 20th century has allowed for many projects to pass through its doors. The aesthetics of the Greenhouse haven’t changed over its nearly 100 year history. It has gone through many different restorations but, as an article by Steph Williams on The Record states, “The restoration process followed strict guidelines based on original materials and technologies to ensure the historic structure remained true to its original intent.” This has allowed the character and historic feel of the building. The Tropical Greenhouse offers a unique and public experience for local visitors and tourists by way of housing plant life which does not grow naturally in Canada. Ogee-shaped roof as well as picturesque front entrance. Environmental/ Agriculture based Research mixed with the park-like attributes it contributes to the Central Experimental farm grounds. This is the Integrated Project Dossier compiled by a group of undergraduate students of the Architectural Conservation and Sustainability Program (Engineers and architects) at Carleton University for the CIVE3207 (ARCN4100) Historic Site Recording and Assessment course in 2019.