Landscape & Urban Design Issue 16 2015 | Page 18

Griffin Glasshouse Takes Pride of Place at Coton Manor The installation of a Griffin Glasshouses greenhouse at Coton Manor in Northamptonshire three years ago has proved to be an essential part of nursery life ever since at the garden. This peaceful ten acre garden occupies a hillside position extending down from the 17th century manor house, constructed of mellow Northamptonshire stone. Landscaped on different levels, it comprises a series of distinctive smaller gardens, providing variety and interest throughout the season, and enhanced by flowing streams, fountains and ponds. Beyond the confines of the garden, there is a magical five acre bluebell wood and a colourful wildflower meadow at its best in June & July. As well as enjoying the garden, many visitors are drawn to the Victorian style Griffin Glasshouses greenhouse which houses propagators, young plants and over-winter 1000 sweet peas. Caroline Tait, Coton Manor nursery manager, said: “The Griffin Glasshouse is bespoke in design and perfect for our requirements. We are delighted with our greenhouse; it not only looks great but it helps us raise much needed money for charity when Coton Manor Garden opens for the NGS.” Every year NGS gardens across England and Wales welcome about 750,000 visitors. Most gardens which open for the NGS are privately owned and open just a few times each year. Some gardens open as part of a group with the whole community involved. The gardens give all the money raised directly to the NGS. Charities supported by the NGS include Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie Cancer Care, Help the Hospices, Crossroads Care and Alzheimer’s Society. Visitors to Coton Manor can also explore the extensive nursery, take light lunches or teas from the Stableyard Café, or visit the garden shop. Garden courses complete the range of activities available at Coton. Linda Lane, Griffin Glasshouses managing director, said: “Griffin Glasshouses are thoroughly 21st century in design and maintenance. They are produced from the highest quality, maintenance-free aluminium. Our product range also includes an NGS collection. The NGS receives 5% of the proceeds from the sale of every glasshouse in this collection.” www.griffinglasshouses.com 18 Landscape & \