Longwood Orchid House Restoration

This project included the restoration of Longwood Gardens’ historic early 20th-century Orchid House. The team preserved the building’s historic integrity while modernizing its mechanical, electrical, and heating systems. A central challenge was restoring the decorative Mosaic Concrete, originally created by John J. Earley, which required custom aggregates, mortars, and expert consultation from Bob Armbruster to match the unique finishes. The project also included restoring bronze windows and doors, repairing structural concrete and steel, and installing a new glazed roof while reusing the existing frame. Structural engineers Baker, Ingram & Associates reinforced the below-grade tunnel system and concrete floor, and Bruce E. Brooks & Associates upgraded building systems to ensure optimal conditions for orchid display, including perimeter heating to manage temperature fluctuations.