Alitex is launching the new Thomas Messenger Greenhouse design at this years RHS Chelsea Flower Flower Show.
The company believes that this new design offers the finest 21st century interpretation of a Victorian glasshouse on the market.
This traditional, bespoke, greenhouse design takes its name from Thomas Messenger, who was famous throughout the world in the 19th century for his functional, yet beautiful, glasshouses. The first Thomas Messenger system was developed by Alitex 15 years ago in answer to requests from owners of gardens in listed and English Heritage sites who were looking for a low maintenance option to timber when needing to replace older structures that had decayed.
With the development of the Thomas Messenger System, a low maintenance aluminium greenhouse was developed that is indistinguishable from timber, due to precisely engineered aluminium glazing bars. Internally, the Greenhouse includes period features such as decorative spandrels and cast vent gear and all are customised to the client’s choice of fittings. Prices start at £17,500.
Nelly Hall from Alitex told The Landscaper “Our new design is the most recent example of our utter commitment – possibly an obsession – with the aesthetics and functionality of our glasshouses – with over 20 improvements that we have been painstakingly working on for a number of years; at last, it is ready to be seen. Firstly, there are no obvious fixings, anywhere. When you look at an original Victorian greenhouse – it just looks right. One of the reasons is the subtle difference in the width of the glazing bars on the roof and the sides. We now have a slightly wider roof bar and a narrower side bar – the classic look – using the Victorian’s deep understanding of the visual perspective.
The bottom rail now has a gentle run off to improve weathering and prevent any water pooling in persistent rain, which is the only bottom rail of its kind in the marketplace. We have a wrap around gutter, which means the gable is split, echoing the Victorian look at the same time as increasing the structural integrity – another feature that is exclusive to us – no other greenhouse design offers it. On either side of our lobby you will see valley spandrels in place, these increase the structural integrity, but they also enhance the overall look internally. We really do think it is our best yet – and possibly the finest 21st century interpretation of a Victorian Glasshouse you will find.”
Prices start at £17,500.
www.alitex.co.uk