Restoring Mr. King’s Formal Gardens
Join Us in Preserving History
In continued celebration of Kingwood Center Gardens’ 70th anniversary of opening to the public, we invite you to join us in launching a special commemorative project – the repair and restoration of Mr. King’s historic Formal Gardens.
Designed by notable landscape architects Pitkin and Mott, these original gardens showcase the handcrafted style of the Arts and Crafts architectural movement. Built in 1926 alongside Kingwood Hall, Mr. King’s Formal Gardens begin at the Sunken Garden, pass through the former pool area in the Trellis Garden, and continue from the Lady of Gaillardias statue up the stairway to Pan the Piper.
Why is this project important? Here’s how your contribution will make a difference:
- Honor the original design vision of Pitkin and Mott by bringing back intended sightlines and handcrafted garden features, paying tribute to the significance of the Arts and Crafts style
- Repair, restore, or replace original sculptures and elements to echo the initial design aesthetic
- Refresh and restore drainage, masonry, statuary, and water features, including the addition of a reflection pool in the former swimming pool area
- Stabilize and repair the deteriorating walkways while improving accessibility
- Replant areas with selections that better represent the original plantings while being mindful of current invasive varieties
- Upgrade irrigation system, relocate sprinkler heads, and expand infrastructure for electric, water, sewer, and communications
- Share the story and historic significance of the gardens with future generations of visitors
How You Can Help:
As we embark on this restoration project to honor Kingwood’s legacy, we invite you to accept the challenge of supporting the future of these beloved gardens. We invite all Kingwood supporters to take on the challenge by contributing $70 or more in celebration of Kingwood’s 70 years as a public garden.
Will you accept the challenge?