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About our elite classique greenhouses
The Elite Classique is a 12ft 5in (3780mm) wide professional-grade greenhouse built for growers who need serious floor space. Manufactured in Bolton with over 60 years of British engineering heritage, it features a steel cantilever bracing system that provides 30% more wind resistance than standard wide-span models. The 12ft width allows for a central staging island while maintaining full perimeter access, a layout impossible in 8ft models.
We stock sizes from the compact 12x4 up to the expansive 12x20, each available in horticultural, toughened, or polycarbonate glazing. The Classique is designed to sit on a raised brick wall for a traditional orangery look, though ground-level installation is also possible. For a heavy-duty 12ft frame built for extreme weather, see the Elite Titan 1200. If 12ft is more than you need, the Elite Belmont offers 8ft 5in width.
Why We Chose This Range
"We stock the Classique for one reason: the sheer volume of unobstructed floor space. In the 12ft market, many manufacturers rely on central support pillars that hinder movement. Elite's cantilever technology keeps the entire workspace clear. It is the only standard range we confidently recommend for professional plant nurseries and community gardens that need heavy-duty performance without a bespoke price tag."
, Matt, Founder of Greenhouse StoresChoosing your elite classique greenhouse
Ground-level installation
The Classique includes an integral aluminium base rail that sits directly on a level concrete pad or paving slabs. This is the simplest installation method. A 100mm concrete pad is mandatory at this width for structural stability and warranty compliance.
Raised brick wall installation
The Classique is uniquely designed to sit on a 450mm (3-course) raised brick wall. This makes a traditional orangery appearance and protects lower glazing from football damage. Specify the Drop Door modification at ordering for wheelchair and wheelbarrow access.
Horticultural or toughened glass
3mm horticultural glass suits sheltered gardens on a budget. 4mm toughened safety glass is our recommendation for the Classique, the large pane sizes at 12ft wide benefit from the extra strength and safety of toughened.
6Mm polycarbonate
Twin-wall polycarbonate offers 40% better insulation than single glass. Ideal for heated professional growing or locations near sports fields. Reduces heating costs significantly in the large Classique interior.
Elite classique size & price guide
| Size | Floor Area | Toughened From | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12x4 | 48 sq ft | £1,029 (hort) | Wide potting shed, seed trays |
| 12x10 | 120 sq ft | £2,290 | Transitioning to professional scale |
| 12x12 ⭐ | 144 sq ft | £2,659 | Professional growing, Matt's Pick |
| 12x16 | 192 sq ft | £3,449 | Community gardens, nursery stock |
| 12x20 | 240 sq ft | £4,275 | Full-scale commercial production |
💡 Quick Guide: The 12x12 is the sweet spot for the Classique. It gives 144 sq ft, enough for a central island staging bench, perimeter staging on both long walls, and a clear aisle around all sides. The 12x20 suits commercial nurseries needing maximum growing capacity. Explore our greenhouse staging for island layout options.
🔧 Matt's installation tip: the drop door modification
The Classique is designed for raised brick wall installation. This looks striking but makes a high threshold at the door. If you plan to use trolleys, wheelbarrows, or need wheelchair access, you must specify the Drop Door modification when ordering.
This modification allows the double doors to be lowered into a cut-out in your brickwork, providing a trip-free entrance. Always ensure your bricklayer has the precise Elite base dimensions before laying the first course. At 12ft wide, the foundation must be perfectly level, even 5mm of deviation across this span causes door alignment issues. Read our full base preparation guide here.
The Elite Classique range starts from £1,029 for the 12x4 horticultural model. Toughened models start from £2,290 for the 12x10. All models include steel cantilever bracing, double doors, built-in guttering, and a 20-year framework warranty. Free UK delivery included. Our professional installation service handles the complete build on your prepared base. Browse the full Elite Greenhouse range to compare all widths.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What makes the Elite Classique different from other 12ft greenhouses?
The Classique uses steel cantilever bracing for a clear interior. Many 12ft greenhouses require central support posts that obstruct movement and staging layout. Elite's cantilever system transfers roof loads to the eaves, leaving the entire 12ft 5in width unobstructed. This allows island staging configurations that are impossible with pillar-supported designs.
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Can the Elite Classique handle high winds?
Yes, the steel bracing provides 30% more wind resistance than standard. The internal cantilever bracing at the eaves and roof makes it significantly more rigid than standard wide-span designs. For extremely exposed coastal or hilltop sites, the Elite Titan 1200 uses an even thicker box-section frame.
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Does the Classique need a brick wall base?
No, a brick wall is optional, a concrete pad works perfectly. The Classique includes an integral aluminium base rail suitable for ground-level installation on a 100mm concrete pad. The raised brick wall option is popular for its traditional orangery appearance and added protection for lower glass panes.
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What is the Drop Door modification?
The Drop Door lowers the entrance threshold on brick wall installations. When the Classique sits on a raised brick wall, the standard door threshold is high. The Drop Door modification allows the double doors to sit in a cut-out in the brickwork, creating a level entrance suitable for wheelbarrows and wheelchair access.
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How much floor space does the Classique 12x12 provide?
The 12x12 provides 144 sq ft of clear internal floor space. That is enough for two full-length perimeter staging benches, a central island bench, and comfortable aisles around all sides. Most growers use the 12x12 for mixed growing zones: propagation at one end, mature plants at the other.
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What warranty does the Elite Classique carry?
The Classique carries a 20-year manufacturer's framework warranty. This covers the aluminium frame and steel bracing against manufacturing defects and corrosion. The warranty requires installation on a suitably level and solid foundation, a 100mm concrete pad minimum for the 12ft span.