To many, The Botanical Gardens is a place of wonder. From the towering plants and the heavenly glass, a walk through the building is both breathtaking and though provoking. So much of what we admire at The Botanical Gardens is what is found on the inside of the conservatory, and rarely do we think about the exterior grounds as synonymous with the gardens. What if that were to change?
From March 16 through April 7, The Botanical Gardens will be introducing students from UB's Architecture and Planning Department who will be showcasing six different design concepts known as LifeCycles - based around the concept of an Orangery and Demonstration Garden Exhibit. The idea is rather fascinating. In 19th century Italy, an Orangery was a place, similar to The Botanical Gardens, where citrus trees were grown throughout the winter. In the summer, the trees were moved outdoors, in order to create a whimsical courtyard where parties, weddings and celebrations were held. Would it be possible for The Botanical Gardens to do something similar? If so, what might the Orangery look like?
For over four months in 2012, a team comprised of the Gardens' staff and volunteers, UB faculty and students and outside design critics came together to envision what form the Orangery would take, and how it would interact with the existing Gardens. After all, The Botanical Gardens is constantly alive and changing with the seasons, hence the exhibit name - LifeCycles. Would an outdoor element such as the one presented in these design concepts be popular with visitors and event planners? Ultimately, would an installation such as this become a successful attraction? And would the surrounding landscape lend itself to this type of production?
Who:
The Botanical Gardens - Expected to attend: David J. Swarts, President/CEO; Phil Snyder, AIA, Stieglitz Snyder Architecture; Omar Khan, UB School of Architecture Department Chair; Nerea Feliz, UB School of Architecture Visiting Professor; UB Architecture Students; Botanical Gardens Board Members; staff and volunteers.
Why:
As the Botanical Gardens looks toward a sustainable future, these projects and models are important to promote creative and thoughtful visions for the future. Visitors will be able to enjoy these creative scale models and consider the possibilities of reinventing the Botanical Gardens' interior and exterior spaces.
When:
From March 16 through April 7, 2013
Where:
The Botanical Gardens - 2655 South Park Avenue - Buffalo, NY 14218
The LifeCycles exhibit is included with admission to the Botanical Gardens. Admission tickets can be purchased at the door for $9 adults, $8 seniors (55+), $8 students (13+ with ID), $5 kids (3-12), Garden Members and kids under 3 are free!
Image: UB-Student-Project - Lauren-Colley
The botanic gardens are definitely one of Buffalo's best kept secrets.