Telling's love for plants and animals was reflected throughout the house. His hobbies included growing tropical fruits and plants. A conservatory with a glass roof and walls, built in the Victorian style, dominated the south side of the house. This area, now used for a reading room, is where Telling grew orange, grapefruit, and fig trees as well as orchids and other flowering plants. Another greenhouse at the back of the house was where starter plants and vegetables were grown for winter use.