Missouri Botanical Garden Climatron: A Celebration of 50 Years

The Climatron® is perhaps the most iconic and famed building at the Missouri Botanical Garden, noted as the first geodesic dome to be used as a greenhouse when constructed in 1960. It was named one of the 100 most significant architectural achievements in U.S. history by the U.S. Bicentennial Commission of Architects. The free-standing structure, designed by St. Louis architects Murphy and Mackey, incorporates the principles of R. Buckminster Fuller, who patented the geodesic dome design. Archival photos convey the story of the plans, people, art, architecture and engineering that went into the iconic structure, while contemporary pictures provide a glimpse of the Climatron as enjoyed today. A special section of three-dimensional images brings the conservatory to life when viewed through the “3-D” glasses included in each book.