Kew Alpine House

[Carlo]

All the talk about the visit to Wisley has prompted a question:

The last time I visited Kew, the new, eye-catching alpine house was nearly completed--but not planted. I'd like to know what people think about it who have visited since its opening. Nice? Is it working as anticipated (the systems, that is)? Plants doing well?

[art600]

Very disappointing  It is too small - like a large Wisley Alpine House, whilst pretending to be a small Wisley Greenhouse.

I really like the Wisley Alpine House with the changing selection of alpines, but I expected more at Kew considering the money spent.

[David Nicholson]

I agree with Arthur, very disappointing taking into account how much it cost. Seems to me to be a perfect example of the art of the designer taking over the art of the user.

[olegKon]

Completely agree with David. I saw it last summer to find the design absolutely fantastic at the expense of the exposition

[tonyg]

I was there recently and was able to talk briefly with Richard Wilford.  He is pleased with the underground cooling system and feels the plants are in some cases better off.  The wider paths are more suitable for the general visitors.  I did post a few pics in the flowering now thread for March.

Personally I would have rather see the money fund an extra pair of hands (or two) for the alpine department but we were reminded that the gardens are for the public not just for the plants