Jewel Box, Art Deco greenhouse in Forest Park, St. Louis
Jewel Box is a glass greenhouse built in the Art Deco style with large vertical glass walls supported by steel framework. The structure contains multiple interior sections designed to display plants with different climate needs throughout the year.
The building was constructed during the 1930s as part of a major public construction program. Its design represented modern architectural ideas of that era applied to a working public facility.
The name reflects the value placed on the plant diversity displayed throughout the year. Visitors can explore the interior spaces filled with seasonal flower displays and permanent botanical collections that reflect local horticultural traditions.
The greenhouse is located in Forest Park and is easy to access by foot or car. Visitors should expect warm, humid conditions inside since different plant sections maintain their own environments.
The roof was deliberately designed with wood and skylights instead of glass to prevent damage from hail in the region. This practical solution shows how local weather conditions shaped the building's unusual design.
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