The Brown Family Conservatory reopens at Reynolda Gardens on Tuesday, October 8, after undergoing renovations to restore the original architecture and install modern control systems.
October 7, 2024

What is the Brown Family Conservatory?
The Brown Family Conservatory serves as an entryway to Reynolda Gardens and will feature seasonal plant displays and themed areas like an orangery and an orchid room. It was known as the Lord & Burnham Greenhouse before undergoing renovations made possible by a gift from Malcolm and Patricia Brown.
History of the Brown Family Conservatory
Built in 1913, the building was the first completed structure on the Reynolda estate. It was designed and built by Lord & Burnham, a prominent greenhouse manufacturer who worked on major projects like the New York Botanical Gardens.
The same year it was completed, Katherine Reynolds opened the greenhouse to the public for an annual chrysanthemum show. Even after her death, her family continued to open the greenhouse for public events before eventually donating it to Wake Forest University in 1958.
The Numbers: The greenhouse cost $13,700 to build, the equivalent of $350,000 in today’s money.
The Renovation
Renovations on the building began in November 2023 and included:
- Installation of a modern control system that can automatically open and close the conservatory’s vents based on humidity, temperature, and other readings
- Installation of tinted glass, which removed the need for aluminum blinds that obscured the view of the sky from inside the conservatory
- Restoration of original architectural elements such as curved glass
- Repouring the concrete floor to make the conservatory handicap accessible
The Reynolda Welcome Center
In addition to reopening the Brown Family Conservatory, the renovation introduced the new Reynolda Welcome Center.
This building, historically the florist’s workroom, leads into the conservatory and introduces guests to the Reynolds Estate. Guests will be able to buy plants and gift items from the Welcome Center.
Opening Details
The Brown Family Conservatory and Reynolda Welcome Center will celebrate their grand opening on Tuesday, October 8, from 1:30-4:30 PM.
Enjoy learning about local history? Check out our museum guide!