An Oceanfront Greenhouse in Gloucester, MA
The homeowner of this beautiful oceanfront property in Gloucester, Massachusetts envisioned a custom-designed greenhouse offering elegance and functionality. The goal was to create a durable, high-performance horticultural addition that could withstand the coastal New England weather while serving as an eye-catching architectural centerpiece on the residential grounds. The final design is a 26′ x 16′ aluminum greenhouse complete with a distinctive cantilevered front entry canopy. Sunspace Design worked directly with the homeowner and their trusted team of subcontractors by providing expert design, technical support, fabrication, and installation services in bringing this unique vision to life.
The structure features a durable, powder-coated AAMA 2605 finish in Hunter Green that offers resistance to humidity, chalking, and color change. The greenhouse is topped with custom-designed ridge cresting and two 23.7” double ball and spire finials to enhance its appearance. To ensure the perfect growing environment, the design incorporates seven awning-style operable windows, four thermal automatic ridge vents, and two 12″ horizontal air flow (HAF) fans. Access is provided by a grand 64″ x 96″ French door at the front and a 39″ x 96″ terrace door at the side. The entire structure is glazed with high-performance Cardinal Low-E 272 tempered safety glass over laminated safety glass. Sunspace Design’s craftsmanship is also evident inside the structure via the addition of a lovely, shop-built natural mahogany workspace. This working area is complete with a sink and provides the client with ample storage for all of their gardening needs.
Work begins to prepare the site to receive the new aluminum greenhouse and patio.
The journey to a stunning finished greenhouse begins with the foundational work.
A concrete foundation is poured. We’re ready for the greenhouse to be installed.
The fieldstone exterior is applied, complete with a bluestone cap.
The greenhouse sill fits precisely into the space allotted for it inside the bluestone perimeter cap.
Sunspace Design Installers begin by assembling the rafters and wall posts.
The rafter and post assembly is almost completed.
A view toward the Atlantic Ocean with the frame assembly readied for glass.
We’ll be using Cardinal Low-E 272 insulated glass panels.
A look at the front entry showing the integral cantilevered canopy over the entry door.
The insulated high-performance glass is installed just in time for the first light snow of the New England winter.
The greenhouse and bluestone patio are completed.
This side elevation shows the custom ridge cresting and finials, as well as the entry door and side door connecting to the landscaped patio and terrace.
Our talented craftsman designed and built the beautiful natural mahogany workspace within the greenhouse.
The interior is outfitted with custom cabinetry and shelving and a functional sink.
This project is a great example of custom design, expert engineering, practical planning, and elegant aesthetics combining to produce a versatile and beautiful four-season space that serves as a breathtaking architectural statement against the ocean backdrop. Virtually anything is possible when a homeowner’s clear vision meets our specialized expertise.
What would a Sunspace Design structure look like on your property? How can Sunspace Design help you deliver the beauty of custom glass construction to your clients? Answer these questions by reaching out to us today. If you’re an architect or builder looking to partner with a glass construction specialist for a unique project—or a homeowner longing for your own custom greenhouse, conservatory, or skylight—our team is at the ready. Contact us via our website’s contact form, email us at info@sunspacedesign.com, or give us a call at 1-800-530-2505 to explore the possibilities.