We're sharing a few favorite images of MYD's Energy Lab at the Ecology Center, a unique and sustainable community-oriented design for the educational non-profit organization located in San Juan Capistrano.

For more project details, read last week's post on the Ecology Center's book, 'Backyard Skills:  A D.I.Y. Handbook' as well as a previous post on green roofs and the system specified at this application.

CLIENT:  The Ecology Center, San Juan Capistrano, California

PROJECT SUMMARY:  The original program was to create a solar structure to house an 8-panel photovoltaic array.  Taking aesthetic cues from the agricultural nature of the site, the design consists of open wood-framing, meeting at an asymmetrical gable, at an angle located for optimal solar exposure.  MYD also proposed the incorporation of a modular green roof system, as an additional feature and educational resource for the intended use of the space as an outdoor classroom.

PROJECT TEAM: Upon contacting regional vendors, contractors and construction professionals, we discovered a shared, enthusiastic desire to participate in this community-oriented project.  The Energy Lab was made possible by donations of services from architectural and structural to those of construction professionals, as well through the generous donations from manufacturers and vendors, including LiveRoof, Richlite and Suntrek Solar.

The power generated provides for all the energy needs of the historic main building, the Congdon House, the city’s oldest wood-framed structure, retrofitted several years ago by the city of San Juan Capistrano.

VIsit our project gallery for more photos and project details, or find more information on green roofs at MYD blog.

[photos by Jimmy Cheng Photography]