Multi-Zone Greenhouse for Year-Round Gardening

Just outside Washington, D.C., a beautifully crafted traditional greenhouse has become the centerpiece of a family’s farm and daily life. Designed to be both functional and elegant, this multi-zone greenhouse supports year-round growing while offering a space to enjoy and share. The decision to go with Alitex came after careful comparison. As the client said, “Having visited an Alitex and a competitors glasshouse, it was clear that Alitex was the right choice.” That confidence in quality and design carried through the entire project.

The structure features three distinct zones, each with independent heating controls and electric roof ventilation. One wing allows for growing directly in the ground, ideal for vegetables and root crops. The opposite wing includes benching for potted plants and seed trays. The central zone serves a dual purpose, housing larger citrus trees and featuring a large wooden table that creates a warm, welcoming space. As the client puts it, “We regularly use it for entertaining, to include dining.”

Behind the main structure, a custom brick boiler and potting shed with a cedar shake roof adds charm and function. “Behind the glasshouse, we built a brick boiler/potting shed with a cedar shake room. It really adds to the structure.” The potting area is set up for messier tasks like cleaning and potting, while also housing utilities and climate controls in a discreet, accessible location.

The greenhouse’s proportions were carefully planned. It offers plenty of usable space without feeling too big or overwhelming for a family-run space. As the clients describe it, the size is “proportionally perfect,” striking a balance between comfort and functionality. Designed to grow almost anything year-round, it allows selective heating in winter through its smaller wings. “The smaller partitioned wings create zones that can be used to overwinter without the need to heat the entire structure, thus keeping running costs down.”

Every detail was thoughtfully chosen, including the color palette. “We selected ‘Wood Sage’ for the glasshouse and cold frame, and Olive Green for benches, shelves and lights for contrast. We appreciate how the green tones blend well with our gardens.” The colors bring calm, cohesion and help the structure harmonize with the surroundings.

The greenhouse came to life quickly. “We added olive and citrus trees, and started a pineapple plant from a recently cut store bought pineapple.” These were just the first additions to what’s become a lush, varied garden.

The family’s passion for gardening runs deep. “We have been gardening since grade school,” they shared. That lifelong interest is reflected in the diversity of plants now thriving inside. “We have started as many seeds as we can manage for spring. This includes tomatoes, asparagus, beets, lettuce, carrots, green onion, and a large variety of flowers. We are tending to olives, avocado, pineapple, cactus, dragon fruit, wolf berries, lemon, figs, and kumquats.” The range is ambitious and takes full advantage of the controlled space.

When asked what grows best year after year, the answer was simple: “All the plants that we are tending from the above question.” The greenhouse has become an essential part of their gardening routine.

This is more than just a place to grow, it’s a place to live. “We are in the glasshouse every day, all year! We love it!” It has changed how the family interacts with their garden, offering joy, purpose, and a daily connection.

Asked to name their favorite thing about the greenhouse, their response was clear: “This is the most beautiful structure on our farm.”

Their advice to others? “Order as large a glasshouse that you can afford. You will not regret it.” It’s evident that for this family, the greenhouse has been a deeply worthwhile investment; in beauty, practicality, and the continued joy of gardening.