Everyone wants a little space to get away, and because bespoke conservatories come in all shapes, sizes and designs, they are an ideal way to craft a little extra space for yourself.
Whether they are a classical, separate orangery or an extra room to dine or unwind, a conservatory is a desirable addition that can add up to 7 per cent to the value of a home.
However, in order to make the most of your extra space, it is important to build your conservatory with your central goals in mind. Otherwise, you can end up with an extension that is neither use nor ornament.
We have compiled the six most popular reasons people bought a conservatory, and provide some top tips to getting the best experience.
Adding More Living Space
The most popular reason, perhaps unsurprisingly, for wanting a conservatory is to provide more space. Nearly half of people in a survey by Which? noted that they wanted a conservatory to add more living space to their home.
The most common mistake made with getting a new conservatory is actually thinking too small. Whilst conservatories like all other extensions should be discussed with your local authority, you have a lot of freedom and space to work with, assuming you do not have too many other extensions.
Bear in mind that you will need room for your insulation, glazing, radiators, flooring and other parts of your home that will keep your conservatory warm in winter, so it is best to aim as large as your budget will allow.
Bridge The Gap
Many homeowners want to create a bridge between their home and their garden space. This is often the case if part of the garden currently consists of a patio, and it allows for a better harmony between the natural part of your garden and your home.
With this in mind, our best advice is to think natural. Stick to materials such as natural woods such as oak framing, which are designed to be sympathetic to your garden’s look and style.
As well as this, make sure your conservatory has as wide an entrance as possible, so there are no visual barriers between your home as it stands, your extension and your garden.
Add Value And Wow Factor
Over a quarter of people who buy an extension want it to add value to their home, and following the guidelines for most of these other desires will help.
Regardless of any other design philosophy, make sure your conservatory is well designed, made from strong robust materials, has enough space to use and is well integrated with your home and garden.
Maximise Light
Conservatories often have glass roofs and floor-to-ceiling windows, and this can help to add light and heat to a home in summer.
This is true but bear in mind that the greenhouse effect can make it a bit too warm in summer and too cold in winter. Try to use thermally efficient glass if you can, which allows light to come in without too much heat or glare, making it more practical.
More Dining Space
Many conservatories are used as dining rooms, bars and sometimes indoor BBQs, which can add a distinctive showcase feature to your property.
Make sure you have enough space to ensure that your table, chairs and guests can sit around comfortably and that you can reach everyone depending on how you serve your meals.
More Garden Space
The beauty of a well-designed conservatory is that it can provide harmony between a garden and a home, by including well-chosen plants that enjoy the near-greenhouse conditions caused by a bright conservatory.