The Muttart Conservatory is a botanical garden located in Edmonton, Alberta that has become one of the most distinctive icons of the city and region. The structure of the conservatory is comprised of five pyramids that offer unique experiences for visitors of all types. These experiences along with the design of the structure itself have allowed it to become an icon for the entire region that pulls in audiences from across Canada and beyond.
Creating a Multi-pyramid Greenhouse Complex
British architect Peter Hemingway designed the Muttart Conservatory in the early 1970 after selecting a flat area which would serve the space in both function and form for the botanical gardens. Functionally, the area was devoid of mature trees, which allowed for uninterrupted natural light, a critical component to the successful adaptation of some plant species. From a form perspective, Hemingway found the flat Canadian prairies to be a perfect backdrop for the pyramids.
The Muttart Conservatory project received a funding boost of $500,000 that was made possible by the Muttart Foundation, established by philanthropists Gladys and Merrill Muttart. The Province of Alberta and the City of Edmonton provided the remaining funding. In September 1976, the glass-encased, multi-pyramid greenhouse complex opened its doors, but the entire project was not completed until 1980.
More than 700 species of plants are contained in three of the pyramids. These climate-regulated biomes – arid, temperate and tropical – are just part of what visitors can experience throughout the space though.
Biome, Programs, Events and More
The Arid Pyramid is 4200 square feet in size, standing 59 feet high. Specimens in this pyramid represent cacti and succulents, generally from locations that receive less than 25cm of precipitation per year. The Temperate Pyramid is 7100 square feet in size, standing 79 feet high which is tall enough for some trees to reach maturity. Seasonal climate temperatures are carefully controlled to simulate the seasons. The Tropical Pyramid is 7100 square feet in size, standing 79 feet high, allowing room for many large tropical plants and trees to grow. Tropical climates are home to several plants that are often used to make medicines.
The fourth pyramid has exhibits that totally change anywhere from five to seven times per year, providing new experiences to visitors. Unique themed displays and seasonal celebrations highlight the creativity of the Muttart staff. In between the feature pyramid shows, the feature pyramid is closed for show changes. The fifth minor skylight pyramid lights up the central foyer.
In addition to these biomes and events, visitors the Muttart Conservatory can also take part in a wide variety of courses and programs for children, adults, and families in art and plant care. Courses for adults include making mini terrariums and living frames, and caring for houseplants.
This variety of activities provides the surrounding community with multiple reasons to visit and engage with the space. That engagement has created numerous economic opportunities for the Muttart Conservatory that are further highlighted by the iconic appeal of the pyramids.
Defining a Community
Tour group and guides of Edmonton all highlight the Muttart Conservatory, whose iconic pyramids can be seen from across the city. By creating such an identifiable structure that can be utilized for countless promotions, the Muttart Conservatory has been able to compel engagement in the space that actively drives revenue.
To illustrate that impact, the Muttart Conservatory has become a popular setting for weddings, banquets and business functions. With its central location and changing displays, it also offers an accessible option for repeat visits. Additionally, themed birthday can be held at the Muttart Conservatory. These birthday parties are available year-round but space is limited. Parties must be booked at least one month (30 days) in advance.
An admission fee is charged to visit the biomes, but that’s not the only direct source of revenue. Culina creates honest, creative comfort food and has become well-known for partnering with local producers. Additionally, the Muttart Conservatory Gift Shop contains a wide selection of unique gifts and souvenirs, many by local designers and artists. Small gifts, new home décor, local beauty products, handmade jewelry are just a few of the options available for purchase.
All of these economic opportunities are driven by the iconic pyramids that have come to define the Muttart Conservatory. They have helped to create a legacy for the city that stretches into the ancient past and is set to continue into the far future.
From Egypt to Edmonton
Invoking the form of the Great Pyramids of Egypt has allowed the Muttart Conservatory to become one of the best-known landmarks of Edmonton. However, the impact it has enabled it about more than the design of space. The combination of form, function and experiences have allowed the Muttart Conservatory to shape its own identity that has and continues to create a positive impact for all of Edmonton.
