The Zwinger Palace Orangery is one of those places that reminds us how long people have explored life with light and nature. While photographing this orangery for our publication The Conservatory: Gardens Under Glass, it became clear that structures like these still influence how conservatories are designed today.

Built in the early 18th century in Dresden, the orangery was originally created to protect delicate citrus trees during colder months. But it quickly became more than just a shelter for plants. These spaces were carefully designed environments where architecture, light, and landscape worked together. Large windows welcomed daylight deep into the structure, while high ceilings supported airflow and comfort. Every detail, from proportion to ornamentation, contributed to both function and experience.

That balance between beauty and purpose is what continues to define conservatory design today. When exploring the idea of adding a conservatory or orangery to your home, start the conversation with why you want one. How will you use the space? How will this room transform the way you live and gather in your home?

For centuries, these spaces have been designed to connect daily life with the outdoors. The goal has never been simply to add glass and structure, but to create a room that changes the way we experience architecture and gatherings, while feeling calm, bright, and naturally connected to the surrounding garden.

This perspective feels especially relevant today. Modern homes often move quickly from one space to the next, but a conservatory encourages a slower pace. It becomes a place to read in natural light, tend to plants, gather with family, or simply enjoy the changing seasons from a comfortable setting.

At Tanglewood, these historic structures are more than inspiration. They serve as a foundation. The craftsmanship, proportion, and relationship to the landscape seen in places like the Zwinger Palace Orangery continue to guide how conservatories are designed and built. To view more historic conservatories, visit our heritage section to read A Look At What Guides Us and The Conservatory: Gardens Under Glass.

When architecture respects light, nature, and human experience, it does more than serve a function. It creates spaces people return to again and again, just as they have for centuries.

Start the conversation with our team to begin designing a space that changes how you live in your home.

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The Chateau Lednice Conservatory at Liechtenstein Castle in the southern area of Moravia in the Czech Republic is a beautiful example of the country’s superlative glass conservatories. When Duke Alois II, the Prince of Liechtenstein decided to add a conservatory during the remodel of his castle in 1840. He looked to England for the design, choosing English architect, P.H. Desvignes, to create the project which was built in the avant-garde Style of John Claudias Loudon.

Desvignes created the system of semi-circular arches ending in quarter spheres that give the conservatory a particularly graceful look and provide much of the building’s rigidity, eliminating the need for the diagonal supports so often seen in glass conservatories. The result is a sense of openness even as the glass protects the Lednice interior from weather of all sorts.

Famous for its many details, this conservatory leans on oriental designs. For example, Persian rugs inspired the design of the ventilation grilles, while the capitals of the cast-iron pillars are based on banana leaves. Topped by a pagoda-like ventilation structure, the total effect is a bit like an exotic oriental garden.

Also known as the Lednice Orangery, this glass and cast iron conservatory was the first stand-alone glasshouse in Europe. Small wonder this lovely conservatory was designated a Conservatory Heritage Foundation site. A refurbishing of the structure revealed that in addition to cast iron, forged iron was used in some of the decorative pillars.

The floor of the conservatory is another marvel. The path that leads one through the plantings is actually constructed of cast iron grates which allow heat from a heating system to warm the interior.

An ideal destination site for conservatory lovers travelling to the Czech Republic, the castle with its glass conservatory is set in the midst of an extensive landscape park or region of over 109 square miles. This huge park is designated as a ‘cultural landscape,’ an official term of World Heritage Sites, which defines the area as “a landscape designed and created intentionally by man.” It stretches roughly between the Lednice and Valtice areas of the South Moravian Region, near Břeclav in the Czech Republic, providing much to explore for any visitor.

While you’re exploring, let your mind soar as you explore both the small and large details you dream about having in your own home! Your home can have the same atmosphere as the Chateau Lednice with designs and details that relate back to this century-old work of art.

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Conservatories were the crown jewels of the home during the 19th century. They were glass-enclosed sanctuaries where hosts entertained guests with refined garden parties, teas, and soirées amidst exotic plants and filtered sunlight. These luminous rooms symbolized elegance, hospitality, and a deep connection to nature. 

Today, that legacy lives on. 

As spring comes into full bloom, the tradition of gathering in a conservatory continues. It is a place where light dances across tables, doors open to the garden, and nature becomes the ultimate décor. Far from being a relic of the past, the conservatory remains a hostess’s dream: timeless, versatile, and effortlessly beautiful. 

Designed for Effortless Elegance: Where Indoors and Outdoors Meet 

Conservatories blur the line between home and garden. They invite the outside in—bathing interiors in natural light, framing every view with seasonal beauty, and allowing guests to enjoy the best of both worlds. Doors open to blooming terraces or landscaped grounds, while inside, the temperature stays just right. It’s a place where champagne glasses clink under vaulted glass ceilings, where the scent of jasmine from the garden mingles with that of a fresh-baked tart cooling on the table. 

The space itself becomes part of the experience. 

A conservatory offers something rare in entertaining spaces: nature IS the décor. Sunlight filters through glass, casting ever-changing patterns across the room. Climbing roses just beyond the window lend their color and charm to the scene. The rhythm of leaves, the play of light, the scent of the garden—it all becomes part of the ambiance. 

You don’t need elaborate decor or ornate details. In a conservatory, those details are designed within the bones of the structure. A single vase of cut flowers from the garden feels right at home. Linen napkins and simple place settings take on an elevated quality in a space already rich with natural beauty. 

This is elegance at its most organic—refined, relaxed, and rooted in the season. It’s a place where every element feels intentional, yet nothing feels overdone. 

Ready to Host in Style? 

Spring is a time of renewal, of reconnecting—with nature, with loved ones, with the joy of being together. A conservatory is an extension of that spirit. It offers room to celebrate—spontaneously or ceremoniously—with a timeless sense of style. 

Because when the setting is this beautiful, every gathering becomes a memory in the making. 

If you're dreaming of a space that blends indoor comfort with outdoor beauty, explore our Conservatory Portfolio for inspiration. Each design is a reflection of timeless elegance, custom-crafted to elevate the way you gather, celebrate, and live. 

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The Tanglewood Conservatories team recently celebrated a major milestone—our 30th year in business! As we gathered to share stories and reflect on our remarkable journey, it is amazing to see how far we have come over the last 30 years. From our roots here in Maryland to designing and building conservatories across the U.S. and internationally, while our team and capabilities have grown over the years, one thing has never changed - our vision. We are driven by a desire to inspire those we touch through the creation of extraordinary glass architecture.

Reflecting on the challenges and triumphs of our early projects, we were reminded of the craftsmanship, artistry, and attention to detail that has made Tanglewood a trusted name worldwide. From our first modest all-wood conservatory here in Maryland to designing intricate, one-of-a-kind steel and glass conservatories for private residences and commercial venues, we are so proud of our team who continue to push the boundaries of conservatory design.

Our passion has led us to continue to enhance our design and fabrication capabilities, expanding our offerings to create pieces that bring to life the vision of our clients and partners. With creativity and precision, we transform spaces into inspiring environments that celebrate beauty, nature, and innovation.

A highlight of the celebration was recognizing those with 20+ years at Tanglewood, including two special individuals who have been with Tanglewood since the beginning - Mehmet, our senior designer, and Tom, our metal fabrication specialist. Mehmet’s visionary designs and Tom’s innovative contributions have been instrumental in our development. Along with other long-serving team members, they’ve helped transform Tanglewood from a small local business to an international industry leader.

As we celebrate this milestone, we are inspired to carry forward the creativity, dedication, and passion that define every Tanglewood project. From humble beginnings to an extraordinary journey, it is our team’s commitment to artistry and innovation that continues to drive us forward.

To learn more about our team and discuss how to bring the magic of conservatory design to your home, call us at 410-479-4700 or contact us via our contact page. We look forward to talking with you!

Here are a few snapshots from our celebration that capture the joy and spirit of our Tanglewood family. Cheers to many more years of creativity, collaboration, and the beauty of conservatories!

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It is not every day you get to build a glass structure into the side of a rocky landscape, but it is always a challenge our team looks forward to...

Along the rugged and picturesque coast of the Pacific Northwest, a visionary couple dreamed of creating a unique sanctuary—a glass conservatory that would embrace the landscape and echo the elegance of a bygone era. Captivated by the beauty and ingenuity of early glasshouse architecture, they were inspired by the pioneering spirit of nineteenth-century engineering and wanted their pool enclosure to pay homage to the Victorian-era conservatories that were the first to exploit new materials and techniques from the Industrial Revolution.

They approached Tanglewood Conservatories with their dream, sharing their fascination with structures like the Schönbrunn Palace palm house in Vienna. Their vision was clear: they wanted to blend the historical charm of these architectural wonders with the sleek elegance of modern design. We eagerly accepted the challenge.

Putting pencil to paper, our Sr. Designer crafted a design that embodied the couple’s vision—a steel exoskeleton reminiscent of historical glasshouses, supporting a delicate glass skin that would reflect the tranquil landscape. Articulated trusses suspended the glass panels, creating a seamless and uninterrupted interior surface that housed the serene pool.

As the conservatory took shape, it became a true fusion of old and new. The use of steel and glass, once revolutionary in the Victorian era, now symbolized contemporary architectural prowess. The structure stood as a testament to the enduring legacy of glasshouse architecture, celebrating both history and innovation.

When the project was complete, it was more than just a structure; it was a meditative space that invited visitors to experience the tranquility of nature intertwined with the precision of engineering. The glass pool enclosure became a modern expression of a timeless craft, embodying the couple's dream and Tanglewood Conservatories' commitment to creating extraordinary spaces.

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Our hearts were full this past Monday as it proved the desire for conservatories and their continued preservation is still alive, capturing people’s hearts!

This presentation hosted by the Greenwich Decorative Arts Society was nothing short of magical! As we gathered at the prestigious Bruce Museum, Alan transported attendees to another world surrounded by architectural wonders and botanical beauty. Through evocative archival and contemporary photographs and drawings, we were reminded that conservatories are not just architectural wonders but windows into the cultural development of our societies and communities. They stand as symbols of creativity, innovation, and our enduring connection to the natural world.

Reflecting on this memorable moment, we are grateful to the Greenwich Decorative Arts Society for inviting us to share our passion with their community! Thank you to everyone who joined us on this captivating journey. If you were unable to attend this series but would like to have a deeper understanding of conservatory architecture, schedule a private firm presentation with our team!

Below are some highlights captured from the day's events.

So, what's next? Stay tuned to our newsletters for announcements about upcoming events! Whether you're passionate about history, art, design, or botany, there will be something for everyone to enjoy. Join us as we continue our journey of discovery and celebrate the beauty and wonder of conservatories.

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What relevance do conservatories have in the modern world? … Maybe the right question is… why are they so relevant in today’s world?!

We hope you plan to join us this Monday for an illuminating discussion to delve into
the enchanting world of Conservatories and their relevance in the modern world!

Monday, May 13, 2024 at 1:00 pm
Afternoon tea to follow

Location: The Bruce Museum, Greenwich, CT

Richard Barley, Director of Horticulture, Learning & Operations at Kew Gardens said it well in the Foreward of The Conservatory: Gardens Under Glass:

“The world’s great glasshouses are the emblematic products of periods of great creativity and innovation. In addition to being stunning architectural creations that allow us to experience the floras and environments of places far different from our own, they provide us with insights into the cultural development of our societies and communities.”

Conservatories, while beautiful architecturally, can take on many forms. They are magical, delightful, otherworldly spaces so different from any other room you have experienced; a place that winter and cold can never touch but stays in a state of constant bloom. By studying the intersection of cultural and social movements with the technological advances of the time, we discover the many ways that the glass conservatories of the Victorians still touch us today.

As part of the 2024 educational series hosted by the Greenwich Decorative Arts Society, Alan and Nancy will share insights from their publication, “The Conservatory: Gardens Under Glass“, taking you on a journey through architectural design like never before. In this 1 hour session hosted by the Greenwich Decorative Arts Society, discover the rich history and captivating allure of these glass sanctuaries, from their early artistic inspiration by renowned painters like Édouard Manet and James Jacques Joseph Tissot to their modern-day embodiment as architectural marvels adorned with intricate botanical displays and stunning glass-blown artistry by talents like Dale Chihuly.

SEATS ARE LIMITED! To learn more about the presentation and purchase tickets, contact Sally Saunders with the Greenwich Decorative Arts Society at greenwichdecorativearts@gmail.com or visit their website.

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Monday, May 13, 2024
1:00 - 2:00 PM with tea to follow

The Bruce Museum
1 Museum Dr, Greenwich, CT 06830

Where did the idea for conservatories and orangeries originate? How did they develop into the grand glass palaces that reached their zenith during the Victorian era? What is their relevance in the modern world?

Join us on May 13, 2024, for an illuminating discussion as Alan and Nancy delve into the enchanting world of conservatories! In this 1 hour session hosted by the Greenwich Decorative Arts Society, discover the rich history and captivating allure of these glass sanctuaries, from their early artistic inspiration by renowned painters like Édouard Manet and James Jacques Joseph Tissot to their modern-day embodiment as architectural marvels adorned with intricate botanical displays and stunning glass-blown artistry by talents like Dale Chihuly.

As part of the 2024 educational series hosted by the Greenwich Decorative Arts Society, Alan and Nancy will share insights from their publication, "The Conservatory: Gardens Under Glass", taking you on a journey through architectural design like never before.

To learn more about the presentation and purchase tickets, contact Sally Saunders with the Greenwich Decorative Arts Society at greenwichdecorativearts@gmail.com or visit their website.

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Ever wondered about the enchanting origins of historic conservatories?

With a rich history rooted in “a royal appetite and a doctor’s command,” as articulated by Alan Stein in “The Conservatory: Gardens Under Glass”, these early sanctuaries were crafted with meticulous detail, and are still the inspiration for iconic structures such as the Conservatory at Longwood Gardens, the Conservatory of Flowers, and the Palm House at Kew Gardens. While today we identify conservatories as beautiful, transparent glass structures, many are unaware the conservatory is an evolution of the Orangery; a more robust structure that first did not contain glass at all!

Let’s explore how the first conservatories were conceived.

The Early Orangeries

In the 17^th and 18^th Centuries, Orangeries emerged as a response to the imperative need to shield delicate plants from harsh European winters. At the recommendation of his physician, Emperor Tiberius was advised to incorporate the fruit of a plant belonging to the melon and cucumber family into his daily diet for health reasons. This directive marked the inception of the orangery, signifying a pivotal moment in its historical importance. As centuries passed, these humble havens evolved from simple, temporary structures to more permanent, decorative fixtures, designed to cradle exotic trees brought back to Europe by intrepid explorers. Initially featuring thick masonry walls and south-facing windows for optimal light and warmth, these orangeries transformed into opulent venues for gatherings, feasts, and parties, immersing guests in the fragrant allure of prized citrus trees.

In the mid-17th century, a symphony of opulence and grandeur echoed through the grounds of Versailles, France—a crescendo embodied in The Orangery of Versailles. Initially designed by the esteemed Louis Le Vau and later expanded upon by the gifted Jules Hardouin-Mansart, this early orangery served as a symbol of wealth and prestige. King Louis XIV created a collection of over 1,000 trees comprised of orange trees from his other royal houses, purchases from Spain, Portugal, and Italy, and encouraged visiting nobles seeking favor to arrive at Versailles bearing trees from their own orangeries. At the heart of this grand structure lies a central gallery adorned with barrel-vaulted ceilings, a testament to the influence of the Baroque era. The intentional creation of a space that harmonizes with the needs of delicate flora and the desires of high society guests reflects a profound appreciation for both nature and luxury.

The Mediterranean Specularia and Versailles Orangery soon gave rise to other orangeries across Europe and making the transition to more prominent fixtures in the garden - statement pieces that are not only functional, but stand as a sign of wealth and status. The Orangery at Kensington Palace is one of the early Orangeries created when the love and appreciation of this type of architecture flourished. With its red and brown brick construction and formal pediment, the building sits comfortably on the land rather than commanding it. Although the exterior is restrained, the interior, as Alan states in “The Conservatory: Gardens Under Glass”, “…leaves no doubt that it was designed for royal occupants. Distilling the essence of the lavish…”. Unlike the grandiosity of Versailles, Queen Anne's orangery was designed as a tranquil retreat where she could entertain her friends amidst the splendid gardens beyond the palace walls.

Originally conceived as a sanctuary for orange trees, the Bowood Orangery design reflects a meticulous attention to detail and a profound understanding of both functionality and aesthetics. Architects Robert and John Adams played a pivotal role in shaping the structure, drawing inspiration from the medieval hunting lodge upon which it was built. Through meticulous expansions and renovations, the orangery evolved into a masterpiece that harmoniously blends historical roots with modern design principles of the time. Its magnificent glass windows allow natural light to flood the interior, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere for visitors. Lit by nine large, arched windows and integrated into the overall structure and design of the main house, the orangery with its collection of exotic plants and art, became a showcase.

A Pivotal Transition in Orangeries

As we move into the early 19th century, notable conservatories with expansive glass features begin to emerge. evolutions in technology, construction and the availability of materials allow architects to design with more lightweight interpretations of the orangery. Notable conservatories begin to emerge such as the Castle Ashby Orangery, the Conservatory at Alton Towers,  and the great Conservatory at Syon Park.

Alton Towers, a renowned landmark, exemplifies this transformative phase in conservatory architecture. With its breathtaking landscape and architectural prowess, Alton Towers redefined the essence of orangeries. The fusion of natural splendor and architectural ingenuity at Alton Towers symbolizes a departure from the traditional orangery concept towards a more expansive and immersive botanical experience.

Perhaps the most pivotal transition between the orangery and conservatory is displayed at the great Syon Park. This iconic structure encapsulating the essence of both conservatories and orangeries in a unique blend. 

Notice the robust stone structure with large glass front-facing windows mimic the traditional orangery style, then as our gaze moves from left to right, glass begins to take over the majority of the roof and structure. These end caps display this transition beautifully.

Through its innovative design and harmonious integration with its surroundings, Syon Park contributes to the rich tapestry of botanical history, inspiring future generations of architects and garden enthusiasts alike.

Captivated by the rich history of conservatories? Delve deeper into their fascinating journey by obtaining a personal copy of “The Conservatory: Gardens Under Glass” and unravel the captivating narrative behind these architectural masterpieces.

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