3-008-592 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Conservatory, by Ormson, in the International Exhibition, 1862. '...the erection of conservatories may be considered the highest grade in horticultural architecture; it shows, in fact, that architecture has become the ally of horticulture... Henry Ormson's structure...is intended to stand alone. The length along the centre line is about 56ft., and the width from door to door about 39ft...The framework of this portion is of wood, painted drab and white. The central mass of roof is supported within upon fluted cast-iron pillars, with enriched capitals forming along each side six arches, corresponding with that which spans the apse at either end. The framework of this upper portion of the building, artistically cumulative in effect, is principally of iron...As to ventilation...the lower sashes are pivot-hung on them centres. There are fanlights above the first semi-dome along the whole length of the building, and again above the second dome. These are actuated by levers and cords which hang beside the pillars. The access of fresh air, so essential to vegetation, appears to be thus well provided for, and this is a point not generally insisted upon...Aëration, light, and elegance are all here admirably provided'. From "Illustrated London News", 1862.