Heritage Garden Structures at the NC Arboretum
Asheville, NC

The Pergola and the Shed at the NC Arboretum Heritage Garden

Starting in 1997, The North Carolina Arboretum began to plan and develop a demonstration garden showcasing plants used in the multi-million dollar craft industry of Western North Carolina. Areas of craft for representation in this garden include: dye making from plants, basket making, hand papermaking and broom making.

Plan of the Heritage Garden.

Called the Heritage Garden, we were asked to assess the site and to design four structures that could be incorporated into the garden, allowing it to function as an outdoor classroom with stone seat walls providing an encircling area for learning as well as entertainment.

Rendering of the group of structures that make up the Heritage Garden

This group of structures - the Shed with Pergola, Chimney, Arbor, and Fence - is meant to recall an early pioneer mountain settlement. They are based partly on historical precedents of the southern Appalachians such as the buildings in Cade’s Cove.

View of the Chimney and Shed

The wood structures are made of large section lumber, in a crafted style, and with a stained finish. The chimney was constructed from materials salvaged from two old stone chimneys that were donated to the Arboretum. This project was been funded through the Arboretum’s overall capital campaign and a generous donation from the Bright family of Asheville and cost approx. $250,000.