Built in 1986 and opened in 1987, the house is designed to reflect the curvilinear conservatories of the Victorian era. The use of twin skinned polycarbonate sheeting removes the problem of glazing a curved surface and adds the additional bonus of energy efficiency having less heat loss than glass. During the past 15 years the opacity of the polycarbonate has increased and therefore light transmission has been much reduced. The original plantings inside had also reached a point in time where major rejuvenation was required. During the summer of 2002 it was decided to completely relandscape and re-plant. A bold and contemporary theme was decided upon, combining many environmental issues and portraying a story of nature’s triumph over the worst excesses of mankind.
The visitor enters the house through a derelict mineshaft that opens up to tropical heat. Plants are growing everywhere in the high humidity produced by running water. Further in, a pool of water containing 22 tonnes of heated water shows the Giant Waterlily in the summer months, with surrounding Egyptian Blue Lotus flowers. Climbers hang from the superstructure and shy fish can be seen in the canal next to the boardwalk.
Upon leaving, the visitor can purchase a variety of exotic and rare plants propagated on site, in order to take a home a little part of Ventnor.
