"The Distinctive Life" Vol. 8 presented by the Distinctive Collection

LIFE & LEISURE

VICTORIAN GREENHOUSES

A Victorian greenhouse is typically made of glass which promotes the flow of natural light while creating a micro-climate conducive to the cultivation of any number of plants and trees, particularly tropical varieties. Luxurious Victorian models are made with cold frames of steel or timber and often feature walk-out patios and enough space to dine with friends among the fruit trees. Bespoke Victorian lodges, like those available through Hartley Botanic, may be small, but they are tailor- made for your garden space. Walk-out porches are simple add-ons to the design. The narrower glass panes of safety glass get high marks for durability – an important element to consider if you live in a region that experiences frequent storms. SMALL GLASS GREENHOUSES Not surprisingly, magazines like Southern Living cannot stop raving about the advantages of building greenhouses on patios, in gardens, or on terraces. Whether you commission a small glass model made of vintage windows or set out to build yourself one using their plans, Southern Living believes that your investment will be worth the money and effort. Among the reasons that the magazine is such a fan is that a greenhouse allows you to “start seeds earlier and control their temperature, which makes it possible to grow thriving plants that don’t usually flourish in the South, like citrus and orchids.” Using vintage windows grants you the ability to

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Volume 8