We are pleased to note the commencement of construction works at the Waterlily House at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, marking a significant milestone in the long‑term conservation of this historic glasshouse and its remarkable plant collection.

The Waterlily House forms part of an ambitious programme of works alongside Kew’s iconic Palm House, both of which have been identified as suffering from serious deterioration and poor energy performance. Without intervention, the long‑term survival of these listed buildings and the tropical plants they protect would be at risk.

A Landmark Conservation Project

The Waterlily House is now closed to the public while renovation works are undertaken. The project aims to carefully conserve the historic fabric of the glasshouse while transforming it into one of the first net‑zero carbon heritage glasshouses of its kind. This includes the replacement of heating, electrical and watering systems with innovative, sustainable solutions that support Kew’s wider goal of becoming climate positive by 2030.

The works reflect the challenges of maintaining Victorian glasshouse structures, which have historically required regular restoration due to high humidity levels and poor ventilation. The current programme seeks to address these long‑standing issues while ensuring the building remains fit for future generations.

Protecting Plants and Heritage

As the Waterlily House is emptied annually during winter, preparations for construction have followed an established process. Cuttings have been taken and plants propagated within Kew’s Tropical Nursery, ensuring that a carefully curated collection will be ready for reintroduction once the renovation is complete.

This careful approach mirrors wider work across the estate, including the use of temporary glasshouses to safeguard sensitive plant species during the construction period.

Looking Ahead

The Waterlily House is expected to reopen in 2027, re‑establishing one of Kew’s most distinctive tropical environments within a significantly upgraded and more energy‑efficient structure.

The start of construction marks an important step in the stewardship of internationally significant heritage glasshouses and highlights the vital role that sensitive architectural intervention plays in balancing conservation, sustainability and long‑term use.