After 30 years, each new conservatory still feels like an adventure for our Founders Alan and Nancy…

It is not just about the architecture, but the entire experience—the sense of discovery, the connection to history, and the marvel at what’s possible with modern technology. Conservatories captivated our founders three decades ago with their rich heritage and the unique combination of glass architecture with vibrant plant life. Today, they are still just as enamored as the first time they stepped into a conservatory.

Reflecting on their journey, Alan shared what continues to fuel his passion after all these years:

“It is something about the architecture and technology that makes these great conservatories possible. Thinking back to 18th and 19th-century conservatories, they were cutting-edge for their time. People didn’t use steel in buildings like this; large panes of glass were unheard of. And yet, they put it all together to create these breathtaking structures—it was mind-boggling! The really exciting part is that we’re still building these technologically advanced conservatories today. We’re using steel and glass, but now with modern technology, computers, and sophisticated engineering, we can create amorphous shapes and tension cable structures. It’s really exciting to see and to be a part of that.”

Alan’s words capture the essence of the uniqueness of conservatories; no two are ever the same, and with every design, there’s an opportunity to reimagine what these magical spaces can become. Whether it’s an old conservatory or a new one, you walk inside and immediately feel a sense of awe. You can’t help but stop and ask yourself: “How did they do this? Who designed it? What kind of vision did it take to bring this to life?”

The adventure lies not only in the design but in the stories behind these structures. Nancy reflected on their travels over the years and noted combing through photographs of early construction workers, perched 20-30 feet in the air, building these massive glass structures: “It is somebody’s dream,” she says. “Somebody dreamed of owning, building, and caring for the living plants within it.” 

That sense of passion, struggle, and vision is something we bring back and infuse into our work at Tanglewood. For Alan and Nancy, it is not just about observing the beauty of these conservatories; it is about being active participants in the journey. They describe it as “a never-ending adventure—discovering the next flavor, experiencing something truly extraordinary. Every new conservatory we visit is like stepping into another world—one filled with light, life, and possibility. The quiet serenity that greets you upon entering is deceiving, for within that calm lies a world of growth and energy. The plants thrive in the sunlight that pours through the transparent walls, and though the air feels still, there’s a constant pulse of life surrounding you.”

After 30 years, the magic of conservatories has not diminished for us. In fact, the adventure continues with each new project, new design, and every moment we spend contributing to the legacy of these extraordinary spaces. Looking ahead, our passion for this craft only grows deeper. By continuing to work alongside others who share our passion, we can push the boundaries of what conservatories can be – melding art, nature, and technology to create sanctuaries where people can gather, grow, and make memories.

To bring the beauty of a conservatory to your home, contact our office! We look forward to partnering with you.

*Historic Photo Great Conservatory at Chatsworth; photography credit Chatsworth