Villum Foundation helps restore Edinburgh’s iconic Palm Houses to their former glory

As part of a philanthropic coalition supporting the restauration, Villum Foundation has contributed with DKK 8.9 million to the revitalization of these iconic glasshouses. 

The restoration includes stone repairs, reinstatement of missing architectural details, a full overhaul of the glazed domes, and conservation of the original windows – ensuring that daylight and fresh air continue to nurture the garden’s extraordinary plant collection.

The Palm Houses, dating back nearly 200 years, are masterpieces of late Georgian and Victorian engineering. The magnificent buildings normally serve to protect and showcase the Garden’s precious Living Collection of plants, some of which are endangered in their native habitats. However, at almost 200 years old, the structures were badly eroded and in desperate need of repair. 

With support from the Scottish Government and a consortium of charitable organisations including the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Julia Rausing Trust, Wolfson Foundation, Garfield Weston Foundation, the Historic Environment Scotland and Villum Foundation, the Palm Houses have now been brought back to their original splendour.

Lars Bo Nielsen, Executive Director of Villum Foundation, says: 

“Edinburgh’s Palm Houses are an impressive part of Europe’s shared heritage. We’re proud to support an iconic structure that displays a diverse collection of plants to the public and helps preserve biodiversity.”

With construction nearing completion, the next phase will see the replanting of over 600 botanical specimens and the creation of a dynamic visitor experience – designed to inspire awe, curiosity, and action in the face of global biodiversity loss.

The Palm Houses are set to reopen to the public in 2026.