It’s easy to see why. Sporting a unique mid-century modern design, it features crossed “ribs” of concrete run between diamond-shaped Plexiglass windows.  It remains the only conservatory in the nation built from cast-in-place concrete. The conservatory is home to over 600 species and varieties of tropical plants, and features waterfalls, pools, and even some ducks (who are permanent residents). While keeping the conservatory open to the public, the Denver Botanic Gardens has continually worked to preserve the original look, design, and integrity of its unique centerpiece. 

With help from a recent grant from the SHF, the Denver Botanic Gardens will plan for and proceed with restoration, sealing, and waterproofing of the existing concrete, and assess and repair the damage caused to the Plexigass windows after years of exposure to the elements. The grant from the SHF will help ensure that the Conservatory will be preserved so that it will remain a historic architectural centerpiece for the Gardens, the city of Denver, and the people of Colorado.