The design began with a request by the owners that we produce not merely a room to enclose their flowers, but “a work of art” itself. Our design team looked back to the “golden era” of conservatory design in the nineteenth century, a time when designers conceived of the great glass palaces as whimsical architectural jewels and wealthy landowners sought them as unique additions to their properties.

They were built to house exotic collections of flora from around the world but needed to provide architectural fancy as well. The country castles of the English gentry were formal indeed and the opportunity to build a fanciful conservatory on the estate was a welcome challenge. Sunshine poured into these new spaces and drew occupants out from the dark damp interiors of their stone houses. Here was an opportunity to relish the plants and the warmth.

Gigantic water lilies imported from the Amazon were popular as were palm trees, citrus and spice. Grand social gatherings were common. The conservatory became imbued with an aura of romance. At first only the well-heeled could enjoy such extravagance, but by the end of the century grand public gardens housed under glass were built in cities of every size. They became entertainment centers with restaurants, shops and even theaters — the actual forerunners of today’s shopping malls. Not unlike many cultivators of the past, this owner most often looks forward to quiet time among the pots and plants and a welcome break from the hustle of modern life.

“BEAUTIFUL… look closely at each connecting point please… every mitre, every corner, every joint is perfection… its handcrafted by the world’s best… my GOD its perfection”

– C. Kelsch

Inside, this conservatory is fabricated using sapele, an African hardwood similar to mahogany but with a more pronounced grain. It is stained a rich natural color that complements the custom designed stained glass panels of floral motifs.