Ryerson Education Facility

A new park facility sets an example for green buildings and environmental sustainability that harvests rainwater and sunshine.

Nestled within the flatwoods along the Des Plaines River, the Ryerson Education Facility acts as a beacon of both ecological education and environmental stewardship for the Lake County Forest Preserves and region at large. In addition to supporting educational programs in partnership with local schools and community organizations, the net-zero energy building serves as a trailhead for the surrounding 565-acre Ryerson Woods Conservation Area.

As part of a team led by Lake Flato Architects, Biohabitats developed, engineered, and permitted sustainable water infrastructure for a new education building for the Lake County Forest Preserve. The 3,739 SF immersive learning environment is designed to Passive House standards. Water infrastructure includes rain harvesting and reuse systems and wastewater treatment and dispersal systems. The roof channels water into a 4,000-gallon cistern underground to supply water for flushing toilets.

Funded through a grant from the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation, the facility is net zero, achieved Phius ZERO certification and uses 80% less energy than a comparable code-compliant building. It earned the 2024 Illinois Association of Park Districts’ Best Green Practices Award.

TAGS

• Design
• Resilient Water Systems