Main Fountain Garden at Longwood Gardens

The rehabilitation of the Main Fountain Garden at Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania revitalizes the historic heart of one of the most celebrated public gardens in the world. Conceived, designed and constructed by Pierre S. du Pont during the 1930s, it was inspired by the great water gardens of Renaissance Europe. The project dismantled and reconstructed the five-acre fountain garden, completely renewing the subterranean hydraulic infrastructure and fountain systems. Over 5,000 pieces of ornamental Italian limestone were carefully removed, repaired and reinstalled. The historic pump rooms were restored as a museum. The discovery of a new grotto concealed behind the historic Loggia adds a layer of surprise and delight, marrying the garden’s classical Italianate heritage with contemporary design. Miriam led the design and installation of the grotto, and was preservation architect for the project.