What inspired your decision to commission an Alitex greenhouse?
A few years ago we visited the Palm House at Kew on a freezing day in January and felt as though we were on holiday in a tropical country. The experience made me want to visit Costa Rica and I came back with the idea of creating a space inspired by my love of both Kew and also some of the fascinating rainforests we visited.
How did you choose the style and location?
We live in a period house, so the Tatton from Alitex’s National Trust Greenhouse Collection complements it perfectly. The design, details and construction have a wonderfully authentic feel and is sympathetic to the setting. Our garden is in a valley in the South Downs and is dominated by an arboretum that we have restored, so both these factors dictated the location.
Which varieties of plant do you grow?
I grow a mix of tropical, sub tropical and temperate plants. I love the fact that many varieties grow in the Amazon. For me, a major focus is orchids but I’ve grown a mix of everything from date palms to bananas. The temperature is around 18 degrees and I add humidity by soaking the floor with water in the morning. Even in a greenhouse, there’s an opportunity to create microclimates with the shade of larger plants and also the plant shelves. Proximity to heaters and the porch create different conditions for all sorts of different varieties.
How do you use the space?
At 5 metres long and 4 metres wide, I have a wonderful, scented space in which to relax, work and entertain. It’s warm in winter and in the summer heat reflecting blinds moderate the temperature for the benefit of both humans and plants.
Has it changed the way you use your garden?
Not only has it created a wonderful place to spend time with family and friends but also allows me to enjoy our garden all year round.
- To find out more about Alitex, visit www.alitex.co.uk
Masters of Glass
- Alitex are makers of the finest bespoke aluminium greenhouses and conservatories in the world.
- Based in Petersfield, Hampshire, the family-run company was founded in 1952.
- Alitex have exhibited at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show since 1960, winning numerous noteworthy accolades.
- Alitex is proud of their relationships and endorsements from Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and the National Trust.
- Alitex has worked with the National Trust for many years. The National Trust Greenhouse Collection was founded over 14 years ago after the Trust approached Alitex to create a collection of greenhouses offering the best growing environment.
-
How well do you know these fictional friends and foes? It's the Country Life Quiz of the Day, February 16, 2026From modern favourites to classic icons, they’re all here, so let's put your knowledge to the test.
-
These are a few of James Haskell's favourite thingsThe former rugby forward talks to Hetty Lintell. Illustrations by by Ollie Maxwell.
-
Reimagining the past at VaughanIn September 2025, leading designers shared their views on creating interiors with the capacity to last forever.
-
Tetrad: Over half a century of timeless good looksSince 1968, Tetrad has employed a combination of traditional skills and the finest materials to make upholstered furniture that is designed to offer years of comfort.
-
Reimagining the past: A panel discussion with VaughanAt Focus/25 later this month, Vaughan will host an inspiring talk at which leading names in antiques and interiors will explain why understanding the past is vital to designing for the future.
-
Star of the show: Rose of Jericho's paint created just for Country Life at RHS ChelseaOne of the highlights of Country Life's ‘outdoor drawing room’ at the 2025 RHS Chelsea Flower Show was a new paint colour created by Rose of Jericho,
-
Munder-Skiles and the art of exterior decorationThe success of this project — which was awarded four stars by judges at the Chelsea Flower Show — demonstrates Isabella Worsley’s versatility as a designer.
-
The joy of English stoneWhen the interior designer Isabella Worsley conceived Country Life's ‘outdoor drawing room’ at this week’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show, she worked with English stone specialist Artorius Faber to lend the space a timeless feel
-
Four stands not to miss at the Chelsea Flower ShowFrom wire sculptures to water features, oil paintings to tableware, take inspiration from the exhibitors at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show and liven up your home and garden, just in time for a–hopefully–glorious summer.
-
Sell your valuables with ease with The Antique Buying CollectiveThe Antique Buying Collective treats gold and silver as heirlooms, not scrap. From Victorian brooches to Georgian silverware, each piece is appraised for its history, craftsmanship .and charm, then thoughtfully rehomed through a trusted network. It’s a respectful approach, giving fine antiques the second life they so richly deserve
