The Conservatory of Flowers directors retained Lightswitch to design a new experience for 2018, ‘Night Bloom’.
The Conservatory of Flowers is a greenhouse and botanical garden that houses a collection of rare and exotic plants in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, California. With construction having been completed in 1879, it is the oldest building in the park. The Conservatory directors retained Lightswitch to design a new experience for 2018, ‘Night Bloom’. The exterior of The Conservatory was lit, as in previous years by Obscura Digital. Lightswitch’s task was to create a differentiated guest experience inside The Conservatory.
The Conservatory of Flowers is an elaborate Victorian greenhouse with a central dome rising nearly 60 feet, containing approximately 1,700 plant species. Galleries within included Lowland Tropics, Highland Tropics, Aquatics and Potted Plants. Each Gallery has a distinct ‘feel’ and ecosystem, as well as physical environment. Using everything from low power lasers, to IP rated LED fixtures to theatrical luminaires, the Lightswitch design team carefully crafted an engaging and immersive journey for the guests, that not only respected the flora and fauna in each gallery but also featured The Conservatory’s magnificent and historically significant architecture.
Lightswitch approaches every project from the perspective of the guest experience, and the story the client wants to tell. ‘Night Bloom’ was no exception. The Conservatory wanted to welcome guests, brighten their holiday season, and help them learn about this jewel of a collection in Golden Gate Park. Guests responded with delight, reviews were glowing, and many commented even though they were frequent visitors to the park, ‘Night Bloom’ was the first time they had visited The Conservatory of Flowers. Mission accomplished!
