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Renovations at the Durfee Conservatory

In 2007, the Durfee Conservatory began a series of interior and exterior renovation projects in order to improve the over-all quality of the collection and to upgrade environmental control equipment. The following "Before and After" pictures highlight some of the renovations and upgrades that have been completed since 2007.

Integrated Heating and Venting Control System

One major upgrade project involved the installation of an integrated heating and venting control system to improve energy efficiency. The antiquated Lord and Burnham mechanical venting and heating controls were replaced with a new computerized Wadsworth control system.

Before and after renovation of heating and venting control systems
Before (left) and after (right)

Northeast Section of Tropical House Renovation

The Northeast section of the Tropical House was renovated in order to provide additional seating for patrons.

Before and after renovation of seating in Northeast section of the Tropical House
Before (left) and after (right)

New benches installed in the Tropical House

The new benches were set back into the planting beds in order to provide patrons with additional space.

Before and after renovation of benches at side entrance to the Tropical House
Before (left) and after (right)

Bonsai-Camellia House Renovations

New shelving and screening were installed to highlight the bonsai collection. Wood boards and rails were added to cover cement benches.

Before and after renovation of Bonsai-Camellia House
Before (left) and after (right)

Tropical House Pond Renovations

A UV filtration system and aeration pump were installed in the pond to control algae and improve water quality. A waterfall feature was installed at the west end of the pond and the bright blue paint along the sides of the pond was painted over to give the pond area a more natural look.

Before and after renovation of pond in the Tropical House
Before (left) and after (right)

Renovations in the Succulents House

The addition of shelving in the Succulents House has allowed for the expansion of the collection and an easier to read labeling system.

Before and after renovation of Succulents House
Before (left) and after (right)

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