The Janssens Retro greenhouse is the most decorative version of the Royal Victorian. It has narrow 14" glass panels and decorative solid panels along the bottom, for a true old-world look. We sell it in four sizes, from an 8x10 to a 13x20, at about $15,000 to $33,400.
If you have been comparing Janssens models, this guide explains how the Retro differs from the regular Royal Victorian, what each size costs, and who it suits best.
โ Quick answer
- What it is: a Royal Victorian greenhouse with narrow glass panels and decorative lower panels.
- Made by: Janssens in Belgium, part of its "Helios" line.
- Glass: 4mm tempered glass in narrower 14" vertical panels.
- Sizes: 8x10 (Retro 23), 10x15 (VI34), 10x20 (VI36) and 13x20 (VI46).
- Price guide: about $14,999 to $33,429 in October 2026.
What is a Janssens Retro greenhouse?
Janssens of Belgium has made high-end glass greenhouses for over 30 years. It introduced its Victorian model in 1999 and became a leading maker of this style in Europe. The Retro is part of its premium "Helios" line, alongside the Royal Victorian.
The Retro keeps the Royal Victorian's shape but changes the details:
- Narrower glass: 14" vertical panels of 4mm tempered glass, instead of wider panes. This can help in some weather, and it looks more traditional.
- Decorative lower panels: the bottom section uses solid, non-glass panels for a classic conservatory look.
- Finer details: the panel design and other structural details are more ornate.
What sizes and prices does the Janssens Retro come in?
| Model | Size | Price guide* |
|---|---|---|
| Victorian Retro 23 | 8 x 10 ft (black) | ~$14,999 |
| Retro Royal Victorian VI34 | 10 x 15 ft | ~$27,900 |
| Retro Royal Victorian VI36 | 10 x 20 ft | ~$30,549 |
| Retro Royal Victorian VI46 | 13 x 20 ft | ~$33,429 |
*Prices checked in October 2026. Prices change and sales may apply, so click the model name to see today's price.
Janssens Retro vs Royal Victorian: which should you choose?
Both share the same Janssens build and Victorian roofline. The big difference is the look, and the price.
| Size | Royal Victorian* | Retro* |
|---|---|---|
| 8 x 10 ft | VI23 ~$9,211 | Retro 23 ~$14,999 |
| 10 x 15 ft | VI34 from ~$11,149 | VI34 ~$27,900 |
| 10 x 20 ft | VI36 from ~$12,599 | VI36 ~$30,549 |
| 13 x 20 ft | VI46 from ~$16,599 | VI46 ~$33,429 |
*October 2026 price guide. Check product pages for today's prices.
- Choose the Retro if the greenhouse is a showpiece near your home, and you want the most traditional, ornate look Janssens makes.
- Choose the Royal Victorian if you want the same classic shape with more glass and more growing light, for much less money.
Still deciding? Read our Royal Victorian VI46 review, or see our guide to orangery vs greenhouse if you want a garden room.
Who is the Janssens Retro greenhouse best for?
- Homeowners who want a garden room, not just a growing space.
- Historic or traditional homes, where a plain greenhouse would look out of place.
- Gardeners who grow in pots and on benches, since the solid lower panels make a natural backdrop for staging.
Like every Janssens greenhouse, it needs a level, square foundation before delivery. Our guide to greenhouse foundations explains your options, and our Assembly Crews page lists installers.
๐ About prices: manufacturers update their prices during the year, and we often run sales. The price on the product page is always the current one. Prices in this article are a guide from when we wrote it (October 2026), not a quote or guarantee. Found a lower price for the same model at an authorized retailer? We offer a Price Match Guarantee - please check the rules first.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the Janssens Retro and Royal Victorian?
The Retro uses narrower 14" glass panels and decorative solid lower panels for a more ornate look. The Royal Victorian has the same Victorian shape with more glass, and costs much less.
Where are Janssens Retro greenhouses made?
Janssens makes them in Belgium. Exaco distributes them in the USA.
How much does a Janssens Retro greenhouse cost?
In October 2026, prices ran from about $14,999 for the 8x10 Retro 23 to about $33,429 for the 13x20 VI46. Check each product page for today's price.
What glass does the Janssens Retro use?
4mm tempered glass in 14" vertical panels.
Thinking about a Janssens Retro?
We are a small, woman-owned business in Georgia, and we answer every question personally. Tell us about your yard and home, and we will help you compare the Retro and Royal Victorian, confirm today's price and plan your foundation.
