Harnois designed and delivered the Abbotsford Garden Center greenhouse in Saint-Paul-d’Abbotsford, Quebec, creating a climate-controlled retail and display environment that merges aesthetic appeal with horticultural performance.
About the Abbotsford Garden Center Greenhouse
Founded in 1962, Abbotsford Garden Center has grown into one of Québec’s most respected names in ornamental horticulture. With over 65 hectares under cultivation and more than 2,000 varieties of plants in production, the company needed a modern greenhouse solution capable of supporting both retail display and large-scale plant production.
When the third-generation leadership, Pierre-Marc Paquette and his team, began planning this project, their objectives were clear:
- Create a bright, welcoming retail environment to enhance the customer experience.
- Provide a climate-controlled growing area to maintain consistent plant quality throughout the long Québec growing season.
- Incorporate a robust, durable structure designed to withstand the region’s variable weather conditions.
- Optimize operational efficiency with improved natural light, ventilation, and easy-to-navigate layouts for staff and customers alike.
The collaboration with Harnois Greenhouses aimed to deliver a turnkey greenhouse system that would reflect the brand’s reputation for excellence while meeting the technical and aesthetic requirements of a high-end garden center.
Design & Engineering Solutions
To meet these goals, Harnois engineered a custom greenhouse complex using its proven Luminosa structural concept, known for its elegant architecture, high light transmission, and durable galvanized steel framing.
The design integrates both retail and production areas within a unified layout. The retail zone features wide, open spans and high-clarity polycarbonate covering to create a bright, inviting space that enhances product presentation and customer flow. The production area benefits from optimized ventilation, roll-up sidewalls, and automated climate controls, ensuring optimal temperature and humidity management for diverse plant species.
Key engineering features include:
- High structural strength to resist snow and wind loads typical of southern Québec.
- Light-diffusing roof covering to promote uniform plant growth and reduce heat stress.
- Integrated irrigation and shading systems for precise environmental management.
- Energy-efficient design reduces heating costs during colder months.
The final result is a modern garden center greenhouse that harmonizes functionality, durability, and visual appeal.