Imagine stepping into a realm where the climate transforms. Here at the Flower Dome, you’re not just entering a greenhouse. You’re stepping into the world’s largest columnless glasshouse.
The Flower Dome is part of Gardens by the Bay. It stands as a testament to Singapore’s vision. The vision was to transform itself from a Garden City to a City in a Garden. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong announced this plan in 2005. Gardens by the Bay would enhance the quality of life. It would do this by increasing greenery and flora.
Officially opened on June 29, 2012, Gardens by the Bay quickly became a national icon. By 2018, it had welcomed over 50 million visitors. In 2024, TripAdvisor ranked it as the eighth-best attraction globally. It was also the best in Asia.
Within Gardens by the Bay lies the magnificent Flower Dome. The Flower Dome isn’t just any greenhouse. It’s recognized by the 2015 Guinness Book of World Records. It spans 1.2 hectares. This is about 3.0 acres. The Flower Dome replicates a cool-dry Mediterranean climate. This allows plants from around the world to flourish.
Designed by WilkinsonEyre and Grant Associates, the conservatories are energy-efficient. They showcase sustainable building technologies. Rainwater is collected from the surface of the Flower Dome. It is then circulated in a cooling system connected to the Supertrees. These Supertrees vent hot air and cool the water.
Inside the Flower Dome, you will find a changing display area. It is called the flower field. Surrounding it are eight themed gardens. These are The Baobabs. Succulent Garden. Australian Garden. South African Garden. South American Garden. Olive Grove. Californian Garden. Mediterranean Garden.
The eight gardens exhibit exotic flowers and plants. They come from the Mediterranean and semi-arid regions. These regions span five continents. You might see an Adansonia digitata. Or perhaps an Agave victoriae-reginae. The variety is astounding.
The flower displays change six to eight times a year. They reflect different seasons and festivals. You might see dahlias, cherry blossoms, or tulips. Each display focuses on a type or collection of plants.
Keep an eye out for the sculptures. Forty driftwood animals by James Doran-Webb reside here. You may also spot Bruno Catalano’s La Famille De Voyageurs. Yayoi Kusama’s Kei-Chan is another treasure.
The Flower Dome is more than just a display of plants. It’s an immersive experience. The Flower Dome shows the beauty and diversity of our planet. It is also a reminder of the importance of conservation. The Flower Dome is a place where you can escape Singapore’s tropical heat. Step inside the Flower Dome and be transported. This is a horticultural marvel.