Bloedel Conservatory finally has a new roof.
The conservatory’s old roof had to be replaced after 45 years.
The company responsible for the construction had to come up with a one-of-a-kind scaffold structure to replace 1,490 acrylic domes that make up the roof.
The panels had a design life of 25 years, but served for 45 years before getting replaced.
It took seven months and $2.5 million to complete. Most of the cost is covered by the conservatory’s revenue.
Vancouver park board commissioner John Coupar says the building has performed beyond expectations, but looked tired and uninviting before renovations.
Now, it looks like a brand new facility, according to Coupar.
“The space feels like it has opened up,” he says. “This is the time for this place to shine again.”
Unlike other greenhouses, Bloedel is unique in that it has no pillars, making for an unimpeded space for more than 200 free-flying exotic birds and 500 exotic plants and flowers that inhabit it.
Coupar says it is a great place for children and young adults to learn about conservation and diversity.
Five years ago, Blodel was bleeding money and was on the verge of closure, but was saved when Vancouver residents stepped in.
In September of 2010, Vancouver park board approved a plan to partner the conservatory with the VanDusen Botanical Garden to avoid shutting it down completely.
“The community really spoke out and told the council and the park board how much they supported it,” says Coupar.
A special party will be held at the conservatory to celebrate the new roof on Thursday. To purchase tickets, go here.
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