Brown Family Conservatory

The estate’s Lord & Burnham Greenhouse was completed in 1913, several years before Reynolda’s Formal Gardens. Reynolds family matriarch, Katharine Reynolds, commissioned the greenhouse complex to propagate vegetables, keep melons in winter, and to present large seasonal displays to the community, including a free annual chrysanthemum show.

Over the years, the structure went through several changes — most visibly the removal of the striking curved glass on each wing. In fall 2023, the greenhouse closed for a complete restoration process to return this architectural gem to its original glory – inclusive of modern control systems installed for improved functionality and efficiency.

Reopened in October 2024 as the Brown Family Conservatory, it continues to serve as the stunning public entrance to the four acres of formal gardens. Open free to the public, visitors can enjoy seasonal displays and a curated selection of plants from around the world. Take a deep inhale inside the Orangery, “tour” five distinct Mediterranean regions, find inspiration inside the palm room, and be amazed at the variety of colors, shapes and textures found in the tropical room.

Looking to Purchase a Plant?

Inside the Melon House, a historic greenhouse added after the original Lord & Burnham complex, is stocked with plants for purchase – many propagated in Reynolda Gardens. Choose from a variety of plants, pots, and other garden-inspired boutique items available for purchase in the Reynolda Welcome Center which is connected to the Conservatory in the historic Florist Workroom. Please note the Welcome Center is cashless.

Join Us for Seasonal Plant Sales!

Reynolda Gardens also host a fall and spring plant sale. Friends (donors) of Reynolda Gardens get early access to these popular biennial events.

Not yet a friend of Reynolda Gardens? Learn more about the benefits of becoming a Friend and what your support means to the longevity of the Gardens.

In the Conservatory

Gardens Events

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Apr 17, 2026, 10:00am — 11:15am

Step into the pages of The Tale of Peter Rabbitand join us for a playful day in Mr. McGregor’s Garden!!! Families are invited to follow Peter’s mischievous adventure through a guided StoryWalk® i…

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Apr 17, 2026, 11:15am — 12:30pm

Step into the pages of The Tale of Peter Rabbitand join us for a playful day in Mr. McGregor’s Garden!!! Families are invited to follow Peter’s mischievous adventure through a guided StoryWalk® i…

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Apr 17, 2026, 12:30pm — 1:30pm

Bring a container from home (20” max. width & depth) and join horticulturist Michelle Hawks in this interactive workshop. Soil and a selection of Michelle’s favorites will be available to choo…

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Apr 25, 2026, 8:00am — 2:00pm

Shop specialty and hard-to-find annuals, perennials, tropicals, and other staff favorites at this annual sale.

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Apr 25, 2026, 2:00pm — 4:00pm

Minnie Evans: Draw or Die is a visually rich documentary exploring the life and work of Minnie Evans (1892–1987), a self-taught African American artist whose intricate, dream-infused art emerged fro…

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