Greenhouses extend the plant growing season and create conditions for plants that cannot survive New England winters. This greenhouse harvests the sun in several ways. Passive solar design utilizes sunlight that enters through the windows and is absorbed by the concrete floor. The floor gradually releases the heat, which is trapped inside the building. Insulation in the walls and energy retaining curtains slow down the heat loss overnight in cold weather. To keep plant roots even warmer, solar-heated water circulates through tubing on the benches. During hot summer months, the height of the greenhouse creates natural air flow for cooling.

Should have a paragraph about why it's called the Olver/Rice Greenhouse.