Dow Gardens Conservatory Update

Congratulations to the newly renovated Dow Gardens Conservatory. This project has been very exciting to be a part of and we are thrilled to see them open. As the general contractor on the job, we also want to extend our gratitude to the Dow Gardens team for going above and beyond to express their thanks and excitement to the contractor team.

This project had a goal of preserving the history and integrity of the mid-century modern designed conservatory structure that Alden B. Dow had originally created in 1975. Serenus Johnson Construction partnered with WTA Architects to update the design of the structure.

Design details include a light-filled lobby and new water feature that incorporates moving water in nine different locations. The new conservatory allows visitors to interact with plant life in an all new way, with viewing heightened by an LED lighting system. The conservatory has floor-to-ceiling windows, which allows sunlight to still penetrate through the glass for optimal plant health.

System updates were vital for the comfort of the plants and visitors. A new high-efficiency HVAC System sequences automatically based on internal and external air conditions. It can be controlled on site and remotely to deliver impeccable climate control. In addition to these changes, below-grade improvements were made to offer additional support to masonry joints and buttresses.

The conservatory is excited to offer the Butterflies in Bloom exhibit this coming March, after a two-year pause. Visitors can interact with thousands of butterflies from around the world while inside the conservatory.

Another exciting feature is a separate area dedicated to the butterfly and chrysalis displays. This allows viewers to see all phases of metamorphosis up close and personal (and safe for the butterflies).

 

Conservatory Team Details

Project Manager: Joel Keister

Project Foremen: Keith Woolwine / Ben Ginac / Eric Sansburn

Conservatory Subcontractor Team:

Sunshine Rooms- Greenhouse / Conservatory envelope system

Escon- Electrical

Smillie Plumbing & Heating – HVAC / Mechanical

Cooper Excavating – Site Work

McMath Masonry – Masonry

MAG Insulation- Waterproofing

Dobson Industrial- Structural Steel

Murray Painting – Painting

Reder Landscaping – Landscaping

Holsinger – Millwork

Kawkawlin Roofing – Roofing

Royal Stone – Concrete

Valley Glass – Glass & Glazing

Custom Tile & Design – Flooring

Allen Supply – Doors, Frames, Hardware

Commercial Control Systems – Controls

Fibergrate – Site Equipment

 

Conservatory Media Features:

Midland Daily News

WNEM

Catalyst Midland

Our Midland