Architecture firm SAW.EARTH has successfully completed an innovative ellipsoidal greenhouse at the Scholes Street Community Garden in Brooklyn, New York, marking the sixth permanent structure built through their collaborative program with the New York Institute of Technology Graduate School of Architecture and Design. The 144-square-foot installation, completed in 2025, represents a thoughtful approach to maximizing solar exposure through geometric design optimization.
The project emerged from a four-week intensive student workshop led by SAW.EARTH, with Drew Seskunas serving as the lead team member. The collaborative effort involved students from NYIT's Graduate School of Architecture and Design, including team members Rayhaan Albuquerque, Yeisy Batista, Devam Desai, Michelle Jungreis, Matan Lobel, Yuan Luo, Angela Madrigal, Mert Osar, Anjali Nilesh Patel, Hetvi Gauravkumar Patel, Meet Hareshkumar Patel, Alicia Daniela Perozo Maldonado, and Finley Yaoming Richard.
The greenhouse's distinctive elliptical shape was specifically designed to optimize solar exposure for the community garden, taking into account the sun's path throughout the day and seasons. This geometric approach ensures maximum light penetration for plant growth while creating an architecturally striking presence within the urban garden setting. The structure features tiered shelving systems that maximize the usable growing area along the sun path, demonstrating how thoughtful design can enhance both functionality and efficiency.
Construction materials were carefully selected to harmonize with the natural garden environment while ensuring long-term durability. The team utilized cedar wood for the primary structural elements, chosen for its natural resistance to weather and insects. Copper flashing was incorporated into the design to provide weather protection while allowing for the development of a natural patina over time, creating a structure that will age gracefully and blend increasingly well with its surroundings.
This latest project continues SAW.EARTH's commitment to community-centered architecture and sustainable design practices. The firm has established a notable track record through their ongoing partnership with NYIT's School of Architecture and Design, having now completed six permanent structures for community gardens throughout New York City. These installations serve not only as functional growing spaces but also as educational tools, demonstrating how innovative design can address urban agriculture challenges while enhancing community spaces.
The Scholes Street Community Garden greenhouse stands as a testament to the power of collaborative design education, bringing together academic learning with real-world community needs. The project showcases how student workshops can produce meaningful architectural interventions that benefit local communities while providing valuable hands-on experience for emerging architects and designers.
