Newfields Breaks Ground on New Flower & Vegetable Garden Opening in Late 2026

Newfields breaks ground on a new Flower & Vegetable Garden project set to open in late 2026 at the historic Madeline F. Elder Greenhouse. Construction, in partnership with Shiel Sexton, is now underway to restore a key part of the original estate, while reimagining nearby areas to enhance the garden experience for generations to come.

Designed in partnership with RAS Landscape Architects, the garden is reminiscent of its original use on the Oldfields Estate. Both the Landon and Lilly families, previous Oldfields proprietors, dined and entertained with the flowers and vegetables grown in this very footprint when they lived on the grounds.

When complete in the fall of 2026, the dynamic green space will boast a flexible-use pavilion that will double capacity for educational and wellness programming in The Garden. What is currently a disconnected piece of the National Historic Landmark will be reconnected to the Lilly House and entire garden with intention.

It will be home to a culinary hub that will utilize produce from the garden for guests and will also support culinary programs for seasonal events like Spring Blooms, Winterlights and Harvest Nights. The garden will have completely accessible pathways and restrooms and seemingly endless beautiful moments. These include an elevated viewing area, grotto, reflection pools and of course dazzling four-season displays of plantings.

“This enormous undertaking will transform an overlooked part of The Garden into a lively hub for guests to connect, learn and be inspired,” said Le Monte Booker, Newfields President and CEO. “I am so very grateful to the many donors who generously supported this endeavor and look forward to the vibrant role the Flower & Vegetable Garden will play for Newfields and the Indianapolis community for generations to come.”

Shiel Sexton is managing the construction after recent success with the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, Elanco Global Headquarters and Commission Row.

The cost of the project is approximately $10 million and is supported by donor contributions and support from the Newfields endowment. To learn more about this transformational undertaking in The Garden, please visit the Flower & Vegetable Garden webpage.

Image Credits:

Renderings of the Flower & Vegetable Garden courtesy of RAS.