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Chatsworth main plan, depicting location of all the buildings, with main paths, restricted areas, and bodies of water.


Topography of the site allowed for many of the gardens features to be highlighted, such as the cascade. This element consisted of an aqueduct which transported water, cascading it over the garden's topography. The garden consists of lime-deficient igneous rocks and slate, giving the sites its steep hills, and dramatic topography. The third plan highlights the gardens developed grid, which allowed for much of its features to be planned. The grid consists of square shape, as viewed in its plan, with some combined to form rectangles. This rule was applied based on the size of the structure, with the use of coordinates for further extensions.

Sectional perspective of the greenhouse and exterior climate. Due to the relevance of the interior climate, it is important to highlight how, although it may be raining outside, a perfect moderate temperature is experiences internally. The diagram depicts that while cooler temperatures may be occurring externally, resulting in rain, warmer temperatures internally will result in condensation.


Chatsworth: Constructing Climate

Initial precedent analysis included a variety of topics, ranging from architecture to the literal portrayal of nature. Taking notes from architects, and artists alike, the research proved to be highly valuable in moving forward. These were the findings.

Designed by Joseph Paxton, who later designed the Crystal Palace, Chatsworth was also one of the most influential landscape architects of the Victorian age. Often compared to Versailles, due to its immense size, the garden grew from 42 to 440 hectares, being transformed from the wilderness into a parasitical garden. This happened around the time whereby nature was being something to experiment, rather than something to fear. In its courtyard, a reflecting pool was placed facing the north, with aqueducts added, following the linear grid matrix. At its height, Chatsworth became the centre of botanical research, with expeditions all over Africa allowing for the collection of specimens. The prime research, however, focuses on “The lily house,” also known as the great conservatory - a greenhouse covering 3000 sqm. It consisted of glass, wood, and cast iron, whereby The Victoria Regina, a type of tropical water plant, bloomed for the first time in England at the location. It consists of a very rigorous blooming process, with very low success rates outside of its climate. Nonetheless, the duality between the greenhouse and technology behind it, allowed for the blooming to take place.