Tanglewood Times Winter Edition 2023

Tanglewood Times WINTER EDITION 2023

Table of Contents Note from the Founders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 An appreciation Of Conservatory Architecture . . . . . .6 Project Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Upcoming events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42 Noteworthy Reads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

FRIENDS, Is anyone else inspired when they travel?

Nancy and I are fascinated with traveling to new places; learning about their heritage and studying the vast styles of architecture spark such inspiration not only for our work at Tanglewood, but in our everyday lives. Twenty-nine years ago when I was first smitten with a love for conservatories, I never would have realized what an impact these rooms would have on our clients and communities around the world. It is actually what sparked Nancy and I to write our book, The Conservatory: Gardens Under Glass; to share our discoveries with the world.

If you have ever traveled to visit a beautiful conservatory, then you understand the magical delight of these spaces. Those who have conservatories of their own speak of them as if they are alive; these spaces nurture the soul and lay a balm on the cares of modern life. Over the last few months, we have had the pleasure of traveling to some exciting places. From speaking at a community fundraising event for the preservation of a historic conservatory to exploring a few conservatories we have never visited before, we were excited to come back and share our discoveries with you.

There is so much we can learn from the history of conservatories and it is our hope that in sharing what we have learned with our community, people continue to admire and appreciate this style of architecture.

This season, we hope you find inspiration in your travels creating long lasting memories with your family.

Have a wonderful holiday and a happy new year!

Sincerely,

Alan & Nancy

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An appreciation Of Conservatory Architecture

GARDENS UNDER GLASS: CELEBRATING GREENHOUSES & CONSERVATORIES Imagine… restoring a historic landmark that has given so much to prior generations in hopes it continues to give for generations to come…

The power of conservatories and greenhouses has captivated the world for centuries; bringing family, friends, and whole communities together to enjoy the outdoors, learn about horticulture, provide educational programs for children, allow visitors to take refuge beneath its grand glass panes, and more. For many, these architectural wonders are cherished historic landmarks just as estate greenhouses and private conservatories are with families around the world.

“There is so much we can learn form the historyof conservatories and it is our hope that in sharing what we have learned with your community, that people continue to admire and appreciate this style of architecture. We have to preserve and celebrate these architectural legends and what they stand for.”

- Alan Stein, President & Directr of Architecture of Tanglewood Conservatories 8

The Reynolda House and Gardens is a prime example of this sense of community and has been a prominent fixture in the history of Winston-Salem since the 20th century. We were recently invited by the Gardens to join them at their annual fundraising gala for a book signing of our latest publication “The Conservatory: Gardens Under Glass”, sharing our expertise of conservatories and greenhouses.

Founders Alan Stein and Nancy Virts spoke on the extraordinary history of glass architecture and explored insights into the history of Reynolda’s very own 1913 Lord & Burnham Greenhouse.

An event celebrating gardens under glass, the main focus this year was restoring the gardens and aging greenhouse to its former glory. Members of the Reynolda community collaborated over their plans for restoration and offered a warm welcome as they took Alan and Nancy behind the scenes into the undergoing restoration efforts for the greenhouse. In our time at Reynolda, it was clear the impact the Gardens and Greenhouse has made on the community. Generations have spent their childhoods playing amongst the gardens and even today you will find families wandering about the grounds daily with their pets, visiting the museum, and during the summer kids participating in camps!

Touring the soon to be beautiful greenhouse And new welcome center at Reynolda

We were honored to be apart of the collaborative efforts to support the soon-to-be restored greenhouse! When Alan and Nancy started Tanglewood Conservatories over 30 years ago, what began as a passion for creating beautiful glass architecture blossomed into the creation of “The Conservatory: Gardens Under Glass.” Sharing their love for this extraordinary building type with the world and the history behind their creation is what fuels Tanglewood’s unique approach to evolutionary design trends.

Bring the magic of this century old tradition home – either with a conservatory of your own or through “The Conservatory: Gardens Under Glass”, a 2021 GardenComm Media Awards Gold Medal Winning publication.

The Conservatory: Gardens Under Glass

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Enclosed indoor pool at the reynolda house museum

Photo Courtesy of The Reynoldo House & Gardens

A JOURNEY OF LOVE AND HISTORIC ARCHITECTURE: ALAN AND NANCY’S 30TH ANNIVERSARY ADVENTURE IN SCOTLAND At Tanglewood Conservatories, we are not just builders of extraordinary glass structures; we are dreamers, explorers, and lovers of historic architecture. Our commitment to craftsmanship and our appreciation for the beauty of the past are at the heart of everything we do. This passion is embodied by our founders, Alan and Nancy, who recently celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary in a way that truly reflects their dedication to their craft.

A Passionate Journey to Scotland For their milestone anniversary, Alan and Nancy embarked on an unforgettable journey to Scotland, a land known for its rich history and stunning landscapes.

However, this trip held a unique purpose – to explore the intricate world of glass houses, conservatories, and botanic gardens.

From the moment they landed in Scotland, Alan and Nancy were captivated by the grandeur of the structures they encountered. From the renowned Royal Botanic 16

Garden Edinburgh to the hidden gems like the Dunmore Pineapple, they traversed the country in search of architectural treasures. Each conservatory and glass house told a story of innovation and artistry, echoing the very principles that drive Tanglewood Conservatories.

As Alan and Nancy stood amidst the lush greenery of the Scottish gardens, they couldn’t help but reflect on their journey. They shared a heartfelt message with us:

“Being passionate about what you do is one thing, butbeing able to explore the world and the historic architecture it has to offer is what allows us to do what we do at Tanglewood Conservatories. Our trip to Scotland has reinforced our loved for conservatory architecture, and it’s a reminder of why we started this incredible journey together.”

Inspiration for the Future The anniversary adventure in Scotland was not just a

celebration of 30 years of marriage but also a reaffirmation of the dedication that Alan and Nancy bring to Tanglewood. The stunning glass houses and conservatories they explored have left an indelible mark on their hearts and have filled them with fresh inspiration.

Glasgow in 1873, allowing the public to enjoy its botanical wonders. It stands today as a testament to the power of shared passion for conservatory architecture and the beauty of preserving historic treasures for all to admire.

As they return to their work at Tanglewood, Alan and Nancy carry the spirit of Scotland’s historic architecture with them. Their commitment to creating exceptional conservatories, inspired by the world’s most beautiful designs, continues to shape the legacy of Tanglewood Conservatories.

While Alan & Nancy were there they visited the Winter Garden Glasshouse at the People’s Palace, a place of historical and architectural significance. However, they discovered that this cherished glasshouse is currently closed for extensive restoration, with an estimated closure period of another five years. This news, while disappointing in the short term, also offered a glimpse into the dedication to preserving Scotland’s architectural heritage. Alan and Nancy understood the importance of such restoration efforts, recognizing that when the Winter Garden Glasshouse reopens its doors after this significant endeavor, it will emerge as a shining example of historic preservation and a true testament to the enduring legacy of conservatory architecture. Visitors can anticipate a remarkable and revitalized experience in the heart of Glasgow when this beloved glasshouse is finally unveiled!

During their remarkable journey through Scotland, Alan and Nancy made a captivating stop at the Kibble Palace in Glasgow’s Botanic Gardens. This iconic glasshouse, with its intricate ironwork and towering glass walls, left them in awe of its Victorian grandeur. One fascinating tidbit about the Kibble Palace is that it was designed by John Kibble, a wealthy Scottish businessman, as a private conservatory to house his collection of exotic plants.

However, in an act of remarkable generosity, he later donated it to the city of

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Alan and Nancy’s adventures led them to the Dunmore Pineapple, a striking 18th-century architectural curiosity.

The Dunmore Pineapple is renowned for its unique design—a grand stone pineapple perched atop a Georgian villa. What truly intrigued them was the villa’s glasshouses disappearance, leaving only the pineapple behind. The Earl of Dunmore, the villa’s owner, is believed to have removed it intentionally after his European tour, leaving the pineapple as a lasting symbol of his grand adventures.

A remarkable twist to their story is that Alan and Nancy had the rare opportunity to spend the night inside the pineapple itself. This added a touch of magic to their journey, allowing them to immerse themselves even more deeply in the history and charm of this iconic Scottish landmark.

“It was so intriguing to me, when you look at photographs of this pineapple house, it is always the exterior but we have never saw what lives inside of the pineapple itself! So of course, our curiosity got the better of us and knew we have to stay there and figure out what was inside the building and the stunning pineapple crown at the top!”

The Front of The Dunmore Pineapple

While in Edinburgh, Alan and Nancy also made a stop at the Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh, where they encountered the historic glasshouses. These remarkable structures, once vibrant and teeming with botanical wonders, are currently closed for extensive repair and restoration. We had no idea all of these conservatories were under restoration but are truly glad the community is dedicated to preserving these architectural wonders.

We can’t wait to visit when they are restored to their former glory!

Have you ever visited any of these beautiful, historic cities?

Are you feeling inspired? Elevate your lifestyle and explore the art of conservatory architecture with our team! Give us a call at 410 479 4700 or fill out our inquiry form.

Look out for our next blog from our different team members traveling!

Inside The Dunmore Pineapple

tanglewoodconservatories.com

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The royal botanic garden in edinburgh

Photographer Alan Stein

Project Features

CRAFTING A DREAM: THE STORY OF A CUSTOM RESIDENTIAL GREENHOUSE When you think of a custom residential greenhouse, what comes to mind?

Perhaps it’s a charming conservatory perched elegantly overlooking a picturesque landscape or nestled within a secluded garden for a private retreat. But for the owners of this custom residential greenhouse, it’s much more than that. This south-facing haven isn’t just a space for admiration; it’s a sanctuary where they nurture the many specimens that will soon bring their home to life.

With a growing love for nature and beautiful architecture, the owners wanted their custom greenhouse to blend seamlessly into the design of their home as if it were part of the original design. The continuation of the stone detailing, subtle earth tones, decorative corbels, and the unusual contour of the roof, echoing the home’s lines, were all small but important details to achieving the family’s vision.

The glass cupola invites an abundance of natural light,

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while the lower roof is clad with copper on the outside and trimmed with mahogany beadboard on the inside, combining aesthetics and durability. Inside, bathed in natural light, hosts a nurturing haven for potting a diverse array of plants that, once blossomed, will liven the rest of their home.

Producing High-Quality Custom Greenhouses Start With The Client’s Vision and Strong Collaboration From Their Team The design and fabrication of a conservatory or greenhouse is highly personal for our clients. It takes strong collaboration between all parties to ensure we execute their vision perfectly, and our collaboration with Architect Jim Davis is the perfect example. Together, with his initial concept and Tanglewood’s expertise in greenhouse design, we created our client’s dream greenhouse.

“To me, the collaboration with Tanglewood is analogous to commissioning a sculptor for a piece of art. I lay out the design generically and then rely on their specialized expertise. Because of the talent of their staff, Tanglewood can design a conservatory that is sympathetic with my own ideas.”

-Jim Davis, Architect So, when you think of your custom greenhouse, what comes to mind?

Let’s take the first step together toward realizing your dream space. Contact our team at 410-479-4700 or via our contact page below. We look forward to hearing about your vision for your custom residential greenhouse.

For more information on how to begin planning for your custom greenhouse or conservatory, Learn more here!

Design and Build Tanglewood Conservatories

Custom Conservatories & Orangeries

Contact Us!

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CRAFTING A CUSTOM CONSERVATORY: UNIQUENESS IN EVERY DETAIL Have you ever dreamt of owning a space that’s a harmonious blend of timeless elegance, natural beauty, and your personal touch? A sanctuary where sunlight dances through the glass, creating enchanting patterns on the floor, while fragrant blooms and lush greenery thrive all year round?

Imagine for a moment… you stand at the threshold of your yet-to-be-built conservatory, a blank canvas awaiting your creative vision. What details would you incorporate to make it uniquely yours? Let’s embark on a journey of imagination and explore the bespoke details that can transform your conservatory into a masterpiece that reflects your style, passions, and desires.

The Artistry of Glass: Transforming Light into Life Consider the type of glass that will shape your custom conservatory’s character. Will it be clear, low-iron, or perhaps a kaleidoscope of stained glass?

A unique way one of our client’s made their custom conservatory unique to them was adding hand painted 30

glass pieces of florals that were a part of their estate.

Each glass pane was a different floral that could be found anywhere within their property (on page 31)!

Elegant Conservatory Framework Think about the materials that will form the framework of your conservatory. Would you opt for the rich, timeless warmth of mahogany, or the sleek modern look of steel?

One of our clients, a mathematician with a creative flair, infused the Fibonacci sequence into their project by incorporating it into steel cutouts. This unique fusion of mathematics and art resulted in a visually captivating and intellectually stimulating piece that showcased the client’s passion for both precision and aesthetics.

Botanical Paradise: Custom Oasis

Landscaping

Within

Your

Don’t forget the magic that blooms within! Custom conservatories are blank canvases awaiting your artistic touch. Will it be a lush tropical paradise, an enchanting English garden, or a minimalist Zen retreat? The choice is yours. Lush greenery, fragrant blooms, and trickling water features can transform your conservatory into a living masterpiece that reflects your deepest desires.

One of our remarkable clients took their custom conservatory to new heights by adding a stunning painted mural on the ceiling (on page 33). This ingenious addition transformed the space into a captivating and uniquely personal haven. The mural, a masterpiece in itself, depicted a lush, verdant landscape with vibrant flora and fauna, creating an illusion of being immersed in an enchanted garden. Every time our client stepped into their conservatory, they were greeted by the everchanging play of natural light on the mural, turning their space into a dynamic and ever-inspiring retreat. It was a testament to their vision and a brilliant example of how customization can elevate a conservatory into a truly exceptional and cherished space.

Bespoke Details: Decorative or Design Elements It’s the minutiae that often define a custom conservatory’s unique character. From intricately designed doorknobs to hand-carved moldings, 32

Fibonacci Squence

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every element can be tailored to your taste. Adding personalized, decorative touches ensures that your conservatory transcends the realm of architecture and becomes a work of art.

Our clients, a dynamic couple, brought their diverse talents and passions together to create a truly personalized conservatory space. The husband, a veterinarian, added a touch of nature with intricately crafted animal figurines, while the wife, an artist, adorned the conservatory with unique art pieces, resulting in a harmonious blend of their distinct styles that transformed the space into a vibrant and captivating sanctuary for just the two to enjoy.

The Gift of Timeless Beauty Within Your Custom Conservatory With Tanglewood, you’re not merely creating a structure; you’re leaving behind a legacy. Our expert craftsmen pour their passion and expertise into every detail, ensuring that your custom conservatory stands the test of time, becoming a cherished part of your family’s history.

So, embark on a journey with us, and let your custom conservatory become the canvas upon which your dreams unfold. Contact us to start talking about your vision!

Contact Us!

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Timeless Elegance: Tanglewood's Victorian-Inspired Greenhouse with Stained Glass Splendor Tanglewood's masterpiece, a superb rendition of the iconic Victorian-era conservatory, stands as a testament to the commitment to preserving historic architecture.

Modeled after San Francisco's renowned Conservatory of Flowers in Golden Gate Park, this fully functional greenhouse seamlessly combines the charm of a bygone era with modern functionality.

The heart of this project lies in its dedication to authenticity, evident in the meticulous detailing that mirrors the century-old technique of overlapping small panes of glass on the curved roof. The elegant effect achieved through this method pays homage to the historic heritage of conservatories, particularly the Conservatory of Flowers.

Tanglewood embraced the challenge presented by the owners, who sought to recreate not just a structure but an experience true to the original conservatory.

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The design team worked in close collaboration with the client, ensuring that every detail met the client's vision while maintaining functionality as a complete working greenhouse.

The commitment to historic buildings is most apparent in the unique window designs featuring stained glass. These windows are not merely decorative but serve as a distinctive feature, adding a touch of sophistication and artistry to the greenhouse. The play of light through the stained glass creates a mesmerizing atmosphere, turning the greenhouse into a haven for the ardent gardener owner .

The result of this partnership and meticulous design is a timeless masterpiece that seamlessly blends Victorian charm with modern functionality. Tanglewood's completed greenhouse, with its stunning stained glass windows and attention to historic detail, stands as a showcase of excellence, a testament to the enduring beauty of Victorian-era architecture, and a true haven for the passionate gardener.

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ART IN THE CONSERVATORY: ALAN STEIN TO SPEAK AT THE GREENWICH DECORATIVE ARTS SOCIETY 2024

The power of conservatories and greenhouses have captivated communities for centuries. A unique style of building, these glass houses are more than just a habitable place for people and plants, but an artform amongst the gardens. Early in their evolution, artists such as Édouard Manet and James Jacques Joseph Tissot became fascinated with the beauty of life in a conservatory and showcased them in their works titled, In the Conservatory. Today, conservatories are still admired for their artistic form and life beneath its panes. Even the gardens surrounding and inside them are carefully trimmed, manicured and often include other art features such as stunning glass blown displays from artist Dale Chihuly.

As part of their 2024 educational offerings, The Decorative Arts Society in Greenwich, CT has invited Alan and Nancy to speak on their publication, The Conservatory: Gardens Under Glass!

We are excited to add another speaking opportunity to our travel list in 2024 and share our knowledge of conservatory architecture with members of the decorative arts community.

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Now offering private AIA sessions!

If you have worked with clients in the past on unique glass additions or are looking to expand your portfolio, we have designed these courses as a way for architects and other design professionals to have deeper discussions with their clients and learn about the capabilities when designing with this style of architecture.

To learn about our available and upcoming sessions or schedule a presentation for your firm, please contact Bailey Proden at 302 727 6003 or via email at bproden@tanglewoodconservatories.com.

contact us!

tanglewoodconservatories.com

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Noteworthy Reads

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CUSTOM GREENHOUSES AND CONSERVATORIES: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

BEYOND THE CONSERVATORIES: GET TO KNOW OUR EXTRAORDINARY TEAM MEMBERS

READ MORE!

READ MORE!

WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN BUILDING A CUSTOM GREENHOUSE

WHAT WILL YOU BE GROWING IN YOUR CUSTOM GREENHOUSE THIS WINTER?

READ MORE!

READ MORE!

tanglewoodconservatories.com