A Four Season Greenhouse in Newtonville, MA
New England’s prime gardening season is short and challenging to optimize. For green-thumbed homeowners in Newtonville, Massachusetts, the solution was clear: the introduction of a custom glass structure that would serve as both a high-performance horticultural greenhouse and a luxurious year-round living space.
The resulting four season glass sanctuary transmits ample sunlight into the home’s interior, helping our clients thrive alongside their greenery regardless of the weather outside. We teamed up with the architectural experts at Legault Design LLC out of Concord, Massachusetts to bring this 24’ x 11’ aluminum-framed vision to life. Our principal design objective was to seamlessly integrate the new structure with the existing home. This required ensuring the space could serve as both climate-controlled living area and a functional greenhouse.
Cardinal Low-E 366 high-performance glass was selected for its thermal regulating and light transmitting properties. We utilized 1” thick insulated units with tempered safety glass and argon gas-filled airspaces. Cardinal’s coating is a game-changer for projects like this. Blocking 95% of the sun’s damaging UV rays and delivering an ideal balance of solar control and high visibility, the glass selection ensures the space remains cool in the summer and warm in the winter. This shields the delicate flora while delivering comfort to the occupants. From the three expansive 42” x 60” awning windows to the impressive ten-foot folding glass wall system, this project’s components were carefully selected to maximize airflow and establish an aesthetic connection to the outdoors. Let’s walk through the construction process.
An architect-provided drawing of the greenhouse’s intended placement.
An isometric drawing of the greenhouse in isolation.
Work begins with the installation of sill flashing around the perimeter of the pre-framed floor system to ensure watertight integrity.
We’ve assembled the aluminum rafters and vertical posts.
The skeleton of the structure is in place.
With the framework secure, high-performance glass is added to the roof and rear clerestory windows.
An interior view shows the unit frame taking shape.
The gable end features our custom folding glass wall system, seen here with the single-entry traffic door propped open.
The folding glass wall is now in a fully closed position.
A closer look at the greenhouse’s roof glass.
This night shot of the completed greenhouse interior depicts the space’s stunning connection to nature.
A perfect space for gardening and entertaining.
Ample glass allows for incredible levels of sunlight to enter the interior.
What would a Sunspace Design greenhouse look like in your home?
This Newtonville project is an example of how modern glass technology can redefine the concept of a “greenhouse.” Alongside our architectural partners, we were able to deliver a structure that honors the home’s existing aesthetic while providing top performance. The result is a hybrid space that invites the homeowners to enjoy their morning coffee surrounded by lush greenery, even when New England snows fall outside.
Whether you are looking to cultivate exotic plants or simply cultivate a brighter lifestyle for your family, a custom glass addition offers possibilities limited only by your imagination. Are you ready to design your own escape? Sunspace Design is here to help. Reach out to us via our website’s contact form, email us at info@sunspacedesign.com, or give us a call at 1-800-530-2505 to begin your glass construction journey.