Planning & designing a greenhouse structure for you involves considering several factors to ensure it suits your gardening needs, available space, and aesthetic preferences. At Alitex we can tailor to all your expectations and requests, offering a range of different greenhouse sizes and styles. Whether you opt for a freestanding greenhouse or a lean-to design, it is essential to assess your gardening goals before making a decision.
At Alitex, we draw inspiration from the timeless elegance and practicality of traditional Victorian greenhouse design. Key elements we incorporate include the steeply pitched rooflines, which not only create a striking silhouette but also provide functional benefits such as improved water run-off and prevention of snow accumulation.
What is the best structure for a greenhouse?
When choosing your greenhouse structure think about what you plan to grow – whether it’s vegetables, flowers, or exotic plants. Larger structures may be better suited for diverse or extensive planting, while smaller greenhouses are ideal for hobbyists or those with simpler needs. Alitex greenhouses come in various designs, from Victorian-style structures to more modern options. When planning & designing a greenhouse, select a style that complements the aesthetic of your home and garden while reflecting your personal taste.
Pay attention to the material and build quality. Alitex is renowned for its high-quality aluminium greenhouses, which offer the charm of traditional timber but require far less maintenance. Aluminium is durable, weather-resistant, and provides excellent insulation, ensuring optimal growing conditions for your plants.
Should a greenhouse be in full sun or shade?
The placement of your greenhouse is key to ensuring healthy plant growth. Ideally, your greenhouse should be positioned in full sun, particularly if it faces south or southeast. This will provide optimal light for plants, promoting strong growth and encouraging flowering. However, in hotter climates or for plants that prefer cooler conditions, some shade can be beneficial.
Placing your greenhouse where it gets morning sun and afternoon shade can help prevent overheating, especially during the hottest part of the day. At Alitex, we design greenhouses to maximise light exposure while considering your plants’ needs. Planning & designing a greenhouse with the right placement will create the best environment for your garden’s success, whether in full sun or partial shade.
Our Alitex sales designers can assist with the ideal placement of your greenhouse during a sales visit. They’ll assess your garden and provide tailored advice on positioning, considering your plants’ needs and local climate. With their expertise, you’ll ensure the best environment for your greenhouse’s success!
What is the best foundation for a greenhouse?
When installing a greenhouse, a solid foundation is essential. At Alitex, we recommend building a sturdy base, such as one made from brick, aluminium, or concrete, to ensure stability, durability, and longevity. A level foundation keeps your greenhouse secure, aligned, and fully functional over time, which is a key consideration when planning & designing a greenhouse to complement your garden’s aesthetic. Traditionally, Victorian greenhouses were built on brick bases for their dependability, architectural elegance, and temperature-regulating properties
A robust greenhouse base, provides a stable and level surface, making it an ideal foundation for adding cold frames as a greenhouse accessories. Cold frames can be seamlessly integrated into the base, offering additional growing space for hardening off young plants, starting seedlings, or overwintering hardy crops. Furthermore, a durable foundation enhances the overall functionality and versatility of your greenhouse setup, allowing you to maximise its potential throughout the year.
Planning & Designing a Greenhouse Layout
Planning the layout of your greenhouse is key to creating an efficient and productive growing space. The layout depends on the size of your greenhouse, the plants you wish to grow, and your need for space to move and access your plants. A Victorian-style greenhouse is one of the best options for optimal layout. The design of a Victorian greenhouse maximises light and space. Its tall, steeply pitched roof offers excellent headroom, creating room for taller plants and allowing for improved air circulation. The wide span provides ample space for planting benches, shelving, and walkways, making the greenhouse both functional and easy to navigate.
At Alitex, we combine the elegance of the Victorian design with modern engineering for the perfect layout. Our greenhouses are fully customisable, offering flexible options for shelves, raised beds, and staging, tailored to your specific gardening needs. The spacious interior allows you to optimise space for flowers, vegetables, or exotic plants, making it easy to bring your gardening ideas to life. With an Alitex greenhouse, you get the best of both worlds: a beautiful, functional Victorian layout that supports your growing ambitions in style. This balance is at the heart of planning & designing a greenhouse that’s both practical and elegant.
