Bloedel Conservatory

The Bloedel Conservatory was opened in 1969 as a gift to the City of Vancouver from Prentice Bloedel, a timber magnate and philanthropist. It was constructed as part of the redevelopment of Queen Elizabeth Park, which sits atop Little Mountain, the highest point in the city. The project aimed to create a year-round educational and recreational facility that would allow residents to experience exotic environments regardless of the local weather. Architecturally, the conservatory is renowned for its triodetic dome design, which was a cutting-edge engineering feat at the time. Designed by the firm Underwood, McKinley, Cameron, Wilson and Smith, the dome consists of 1,490 acrylic bubbles supported by a space frame of aluminum tubing. It remains one of the most recognizable structures in Vancouver's skyline and was designated a heritage site for its architectural and social significance. Throughout its history, the conservatory has faced challenges, including a threat of closure in 2009 due to budget cuts. However, a massive wave of public support and a collaborative effort between the City and the Vancouver Botanical Gardens Association saved the facility. Today, it continues to thrive as a sanctuary housing over 500 species of plants and more than 100 free-flying exotic birds across three distinct climate zones: tropical, subtropical, and desert.