After a two-year closure for renovation, the 120-year old Albert Kahndesigned Anna Scripps WhitcombConservatory, known locally as just the Belle Isle Conservatory, reopened its glass doors to the public, earlier this month. Visitors were again welcomed to view the notable collection of rare plants, and experience the grandeur of the glass dome. Its long glass corridors recall the architectural grandeur of the Crystal Palace (A Healthier Michigan /Flickr/CC BY-SA 2.0)Though the 13-acre conservatory is located within Belle Isle Park in Detroit, Michigan, its architecture and materiality is reminiscent of Londons iconic Crystal Palace. Its long illuminated corridors clearly remain a technological marvel as seen with the Belle Isle Conservatory and similarly at the recently completed West Conservatory at Longwood Gardens. Known for housing the largest municipally owned orchid collectiona gift from Anna Scripps Whitcombthe conservatory was named for Anna Scripps Whitcomb who donated 600 orchids. Amid the extensive collection of orchids, the conservatory also features a collection of rare plants from around the world, seasonal flora beds, and a lily-koi pond.Ideal Contracting was called on by State officials to oversee the project as the general contractor alongside architectural consultant, Forbes Associates Architects, and glasshouse design and preservation consultant, Montgomery Smith.The newly renovated dome viewed from inside the conservatory (Jake Chamberlin)With over $10 million, addressing structural components, the roof, and glazing. Most notable was the replacement of 1,500 glass panes on the conservatorys upper dome. These new panels allow for improved light control and solar heat gainboth integral to plant life. Other significant renovations included repair of steel trusses, new concrete flooring and planter walls, new ceiling and ceiling fans, and updated exterior limestone panels.Funding for renovation was brought forth as part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, helping to address infrastructure needs in Michigan state parks.