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:
