KENNETT SQUARE, PA — Longwood Gardens, a beacon of horticultural excellence, is set to embark on an unprecedented journey with the unveiling of Longwood Reimagined: A New Garden Experience. This landmark event, launching on November 22, 2024, marks the culmination of the most transformative revitalization in the garden’s storied century-long history. Spearheaded by the distinguished architecture firm WEISS/MANFREDI, in collaboration with the renowned landscape architects of Reed Hilderbrand, this ambitious project spans 17 acres of innovative public spaces, blending new structures with breathtaking landscapes.
The grand opening will be celebrated with an array of festivities over two weeks, including exclusive previews for members and a series of special events. This unveiling coincides with the much-anticipated A Longwood Christmas, showcasing over half a million lights and captivating fountain displays from November 22, 2024, through January 12, 2025.
Central to this transformation is the creation of a 32,000-square-foot glasshouse, the West Conservatory, featuring a Mediterranean Garden designed by Reed Hilderbrand. This architectural marvel, characterized by its crystalline peaks and reflective water settings, introduces visitors to a lush Mediterranean landscape of diverse plant species, seamlessly integrating water, stone, and plant life.
Sustainability lies at the heart of Longwood Reimagined. The West Conservatory employs geothermal technology and innovative passive air tempering systems to optimize energy efficiency and environmental harmony. This approach not only enhances the visitor experience but also fortifies Longwood’s commitment to sustainable garden artistry.
In tribute to the global Mediterranean ecozones, the conservatory’s garden intertwines flora from regions such as the Mediterranean Basin and coastal California, creating a rich tapestry of plant life. Incorporating towering canopy trees and vibrant plant species, the garden offers a dynamic blend of intimacy and grandeur, inviting exploration and reflection.
A highlight of this visionary project is the preservation and relocation of the Cascade Garden, the sole North American design by the legendary Roberto Burle Marx. This meticulously restored garden now enjoys a prominent position, with enhanced accessibility and climate control, ensuring its legacy endures for future generations.
Additionally, the Bonsai Courtyard emerges as a serene outdoor gallery, designed to showcase Longwood’s esteemed bonsai collection. This innovative space, crafted by Reed Hilderbrand, features a contemplative setting enriched by meticulously curated bonsai specimens from the illustrious Kennett Collection.
Further enriching the visitor experience, new landscapes and structures harmonize the historic and contemporary elements of Longwood Gardens, inviting guests to engage with both the natural and built environments. From the Waterlily Court to the Conservatory Overlook, each space is thoughtfully designed to celebrate Longwood’s horticultural heritage and its visionary future.
As Longwood Gardens unveils Longwood Reimagined, it not only honors its legacy but also sets a new standard for horticultural excellence, offering visitors an evolving garden experience that captivates and inspires.
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