Moll explained “our partnership with local design firms will allow the Conservatory to really “ramp up” the excitement surrounding our showcase garden. This exhibit will feature art, history, horticulture, and entertainment. Each design firm will adopt a structure which they consider to be significant to the current or past downtown landscape.” Companies providing design, curatorial, and fabrication services include:
- Design Collaborative, Inc. ' Ron Dick, Principal
- Martin-Riley Architects, Engineers ' John Riley, Partner
- Moake Park Group, Inc. ' Dick Moake, Owner
- MSKTD & Associates, Inc. ' Jim Kratzat, President
- Schenkel Shultz Architecture, Inc. ' Corey Miller, Architect
According to Moll, the Conservatory's key goals in creating the exhibit are to:
- educate the public on the history of downtown Fort Wayne,
- provide an aesthetically enjoyable horticultural exhibit
- feature the great social significance of the inter-urban rail way
- encourage discussion on urban planning and the urban lifestyle of the past and future
- share the unique artistic expression present in each building model
- evoke fond memories of downtown
- capture the imagination of younger visitors
- create an attractive and intriguing atmosphere
- showcase our design sponsors and highlight the unique cooperative partnership necessary to move this exhibit from concept to reality.
Organizations or individuals interested becoming involved in Downtown Landmarks should contact the Botanical Conservatory, 260/427-6441.