Belle Isle Conservatory Phase II

Starting in August 2022, Ideal Contracting began removing the existing glazing in the conservatory so that the structural steel could be blasted, repaired, and painted. In total, there were 1,500 glass panes replaced throughout the project. The conservatory houses many kinds of historic plant life, making it vital that the climate within the conservatory remains consistent. To accomplish this, our team worked with our trade partners to erect a cantilevered scaffolding system that was enclosed to capture any hazardous debris and maintain a controlled temperature. Scaffolding was built inside and around the exterior of the dome structure so that all areas were accessible. To further the safety of the existing plant life in the conservatory, Ideal Contracting installed a temporary scaffolding “floor” above the plants. The floor was insulated to support the warm, humid temperatures and protect the plants from abatement operations. Additionally, temporary grow lights, along with supplemental heating, were added to the construction site.

Ideal Contracting is proud to have supported this monumental restoration project for such an iconic piece of Detroit. The Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory reopened to the public in December of 2024, marking an end to the second phase of construction and a new beginning for the conservatory’s thousands of annual visitors.