Some stories deserve a little extra recognition.
And this is absolutely one of them.
A huge congratulations to Dina McMahon of Port Moody, British Columbia, whose backyard greenhouse has been featured on the cover of Better Homes & Gardens. From first-time grower to cover-worthy garden, it’s the kind of journey we love to celebrate.
As shared in Better Homes & Gardens, writer Mike Irvine captures Dina’s humble starting point perfectly:
“I wasn’t sure I was going to love gardening at first.” — Dina McMahon, via Better Homes & Gardens (Mike Irvine)
Safe to say… that didn’t last long.
What started as curiosity quickly turned into a full-fledged passion, and a backyard that now sets the standard for what’s possible in a small space.
Dina didn’t rely on size. She relied on smart design for her greenhouse planning.
Working within a compact footprint, she maximized every inch, layering raised beds, flowers, vegetables, and gathering spaces into one cohesive environment. It’s efficient, intentional, and effortlessly inviting.
At the center of it all is her custom-built greenhouse, a BC Greenhouse Builders Cottage model (6×12, 6mm single glass with a twinwall roof), designed specifically to fit her space while delivering year-round performance.
As noted in Better Homes & Gardens, Dina’s greenhouse plays a central role in her success:
“A greenhouse by BC Greenhouse Builders was custom-built to fit within the limited footprint in the back of the garden.” — Better Homes & Gardens (Mike Irvine)
Her 6×12 Cottage greenhouse strikes that perfect balance, compact enough for a backyard like hers, but powerful enough to completely transform how she grows.
Outfitted with water and electricity, it allows her to start up to 90% of her crops from seed, from sugar snap peas to kale to calendula.
And beyond performance, it’s become something more personal.
“I love to crank the heat and work while it’s pouring rain outside. It’s a total escape.” — Dina McMahon, via Better Homes & Gardens (Mike Irvine)
That’s what we love to hear.
Because a greenhouse should do more than extend your season, it should create a space you genuinely enjoy being in.
No matter where you live, gardening comes with its challenges.
Too much rain. Not enough heat. Sudden temperature swings. Short seasons. Long ones. Every region has its own version of “perfect conditions," and its own set of curveballs.
That’s where thoughtful design makes all the difference.
Dina’s greenhouse, with its durable glass glazing and twinwall roof for added insulation, allows her to grow earlier and longer and stay consistent through changing conditions. It creates a controlled environment where plants can thrive, regardless of what’s happening outside.
Because a greenhouse shouldn’t just work on the best days.
It should work every day.
Feature |
Specification |
|
Style |
Cottage |
|
Frame Color |
Rideau Brown |
|
Dimensions |
6' - 7" x 12" - 8 1/2" |
|
Roof Glazing |
6mm Twinwall Polycarbonate |
|
Wall Glazing |
6mm Single Pane Full Sheet Glass Sidewalls |
|
Door Drop |
18" |
Upgrades Included |
|
Custom Door Placement in Sidewall |
|
Manual Single Glass Louvre |
|
Decorative Pressure Cap |
|
10" Exhaust Fan Package with 1 Intake Shutter and Thermostat |
|
Tube Gutter on Both Sidewalls |
|
Foundation Built By Others |
|
Shelving Not Included |
One of the most impressive parts of Dina’s setup isn’t just what she grows, it’s how the space lives.
Her greenhouse, raised beds, and outdoor dining area all flow together. Guests wander between garden beds and dinner conversations. It’s functional, yes—but also deeply inviting.
Exactly what a backyard should be.
Being featured in Better Homes & Gardens—and landing the cover—is no small feat.
It’s a testament to Dina’s creativity, effort, and willingness to dive in and build something from the ground up.
We’re incredibly proud to have been part of her journey—and even more excited to see her greenhouse getting the recognition it deserves.
Dina started with a simple question: Will I even like this?
Now she’s on the cover of a magazine.
If you’re thinking about adding a greenhouse to your space, take this as your sign. With the right design and guidance, you can create something that’s not only functional but truly special.
Sign up to learn more about designing your own greenhouse and start planning your space today. 🌿