The Rawlings Conservatory | Beautiful light-filled spaces

Imagine… enjoying a hot cup of tea while relaxing under the beauty of this large, elegant domed roof at the Rawlings Conservatory. Could you imagine stargazing under the beauty of this custom glass conservatory?

Opened in August of 1888, the Druid Hill Park Rawlings Conservatory in Baltimore, MD, is the second oldest glass conservatory still in use in the United States. Its large glass panes making up the walls and roof of the conservatory exemplifies the joy and beauty of light. Designed by architect George Aloysius Frederick, the original Palm House has some 175 windows and soars 50 feet high. It has long been considered an outstanding example of Victorian structural design. Next door is the smaller Orchid room which is also charming.

Beautiful Custom Details In This Conservatory

Look closely and you’ll discover that the window walls that make up the Palm House follow a lovely pattern. Entrance high frames filled with sparkling frames anchor the building to the land. Let your eye wander up and take in how the next two rows of frames are of different heights, topped off by frames holding arched panes of glass.

  • Rawlings Conservatory_Exterior glass close up
  • Rawlings Conservatory_Interior glass view

Perhaps not surprisingly, the attention to detail contributes significantly to the visual impact of the two original structures. Note too that each corner is softened by a slight flattening giving the illusion of gentle rounding. All this, is of course, covered by the glass roof that curves up to the wind vein topped copula. Small wonder this conservatory is celebrated for its magical light all year round. 

The Orchid room, though smaller, is similarly detailed. It echoes the larger structure without duplicating it. For instance, it lacks a glass roof but has the same sort of rounded frames and panes of glass.

Conservatories, also known as glasshouses, are cherished because of the light they invite. Natural light makes us feel good; the sunlight is good for us. It’s the combination of the light inviting glass and the strict attention to detail that leads to a love of conservatories and skylights, old and new.

Consider how inviting light with your own custom glass conservatory or magical skylight could brighten your home or business. We understand the extraordinary difference between light and attention to detail. It’s our passion. We’ll work with you to draw from the past while using the best of modern materials as together we create exactly the perfect way for you to welcome in the light.
Call us for a no-charge consultation at 1-410-479-4700 or fill out the form on our contact page!