Historic Preservation

In 2022, the Volunteer Park Conservatory celebrated its 110th anniversary, marking over a century of inspiring and connecting people of all ages to the wonders of plants. Over the years, millions of visitors have passed through the Conservatory's glass doors, marveling at the showy birds of paradise, the beautifully strange cactus collection, and the varied exhibitions of bromeliads, orchids, and chrysanthemums. The Conservatory is a cherished cultural heritage, arts programming, and educational resource, and a unique treasure. Its continued brilliance is the result of the collective care and dedication of our community.

Since 1980, Friends of the Conservatory has been at the forefront of the efforts to safeguard and preserve this historic building and its rare plant collection. We understand the importance of preserving the legacy of the Conservatory for future generations. Through stewardship, advocacy, and direct assistance, we work tirelessly every day to ensure the continued existence of this irreplaceable gem.

By joining forces with us, you become part of this community of individuals and organizations committed to the preservation of the Conservatory. We invite you to learn more about our initiatives and contribute to our mission to protect this treasured landmark.

Restoration of Homage in Green and the “Peacock” Window
Greeting you as you step through the doors of the Conservatory, Homage in Green, etched glass art panels by Richard Spaulding, are in need of restoration. First creates in 1981, through a SAFECO Corporate grant and gifted to the City of Seattle, this public art is managed by the Office of Arts and Culture.

The iconic lunette or “peacock” window facing the street, is made of the original 1912 wood, and along with the Homage in Green, are both in need of repair. Multiple earthquakes, scorching summers, and long, wet winters have take their toll on the structure and art.

Please consider contributing to these restoration efforts. Support this historic space by clicking the donate button.

Current Initiatives

Photo of 2023 repair work by Kathy Buchanan.

Past Initiatives

  • 2023 — Re-dedication of the Sharon Priebe Education Wing.

  • 2012-2013 — FOC collaborated with SPR and Seattle Parks Foundation to fund $3.5M ($350,000 raised by FOC) for the restoration of the 100-year-old Conservatory’s east wing and east support greenhouses.

  • 2002 — Raised over $240k to renovate the original Potting Shed and SPR offices, as well as the Resource Center/Office and Gift Shop.

  • 2000 — Funded the restoration of the lunette (the “Peacock” window).

  • mid 1990s — Seattle Parks embarked on a phased 30 year program of restoration replacing all of the wooden portions with extruded aluminum, with the addition of many safety enhancements to the facility.

  • 1980-1985 — FOC led the effort to save VPC and sponsored the architectural restoration of the Conservatory building including the wood rebuild in the display houses. This restoration used Alaska Yellow Cedar to replace the failing original swamp cypress.