The Orangery, Kew Gardens
Refurbishment Design
Project Management
Design implementation
Team
Acanthus Clews Architects
Designs Unlimited
The Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew
In the majestic expanse of The Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew stands The Orangery, a Grade I listed building. Entrusted with the honour of restoring this architectural gem, Designs Unlimited, in collaboration with Acanthus Clews architects, embarked on a journey to breathe new life into these historic spaces.
Challenge
The Orangery's restoration was not solely about refurbishment but about reinvigorating a piece of history to serve the present and future. The public areas and circulation spaces needed to echo the past's grandeur while accommodating modern functionality's demands. The project demanded a nuanced understanding of historical details and the creativity to reimagine them for today's use.
Solution
Our design philosophy was guided by a deep respect for the Orangery's historical essence and an innovative approach to modern demands. By employing specialist finishes like limewash paints and historic patterned tiles, we infused traditional materials with a contemporary twist, offering a fresh take on tradition.
The design seamlessly integrated modern fixtures and fittings, ensuring the Orangery could accommodate the vast influx of visitors without compromising its historical integrity. Collaboration with the archivist of images allowed us to curate artwork that reflected the Orangery's rich history, further bridging the gap between past and present.
