When it comes to home improvements, many homeowners assume that winter is the wrong season to plan or install an orangery or conservatory. After all, December is damp and chilly, daylight hours are short, and the festive season is in full swing.
However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Winter is actually an ideal time to start thinking about your dream orangery or bespoke conservatory. Here’s why.
More availability for consultations and surveys
During the busier spring and summer months, installers are often booked months in advance. By planning your project in December, you can take advantage of greater availability.
Scheduling consultations, site surveys, and design discussions is easier, giving you more time to make decisions without the pressure of tight timelines.
Avoid the summer rush
Most homeowners prefer to build or renovate during the warmer months, meaning that installers are often in high demand. By planning in winter, you can secure your preferred installation window and avoid potential delays.
Early planning ensures your orangery or conservatory can be ready by spring or summer, with perfect timing to enjoy it during the best weather.
Time to consider every detail
Winter planning gives you the luxury of time. You can explore design options, materials, and finishes without rushing.
Choosing between a traditional conservatory or a modern orangery, selecting the right glazing, roofing materials, and colour schemes all take careful consideration.
A December start allows you to finalise every detail so that construction runs smoothly once the season changes.
Take advantage of modern energy-efficient designs
One common concern for winter is heating and energy efficiency. However, modern orangeries and conservatories are designed to be comfortable all year round.
Double or triple glazing, insulated roofs, and energy-efficient frames mean your space will retain warmth during colder months while still benefiting from natural light.
Planning in winter allows you to discuss these options with your supplier and make informed decisions to keep your space cosy.
Winter is perfect for design inspiration
During winter, homeowners often spend more time indoors. This gives you a fresh perspective on your home’s current layout, light flow, and interior décor. You can consider how an orangery or conservatory will complement your existing rooms and furniture.
Winter also provides a natural test for sunlight exposure, which can influence glazing and orientation decisions.
Early bird advantage on costs
Planning in December can also be financially advantageous. Many suppliers and installers offer off-season consultations or promotions.
By engaging in winter, you may benefit from competitive pricing, seasonal deals, or priority scheduling, ensuring your investment goes further.
Ideal timing for planning permissions and regulations
If your project requires planning permission or building regulation approval, starting in winter provides ample time to obtain these before construction begins. This means you can avoid delays and ensure that your project adheres to all legal requirements.
Winter planning allows you to navigate the paperwork efficiently so that your build is ready to proceed in spring or early summer.
Stress-free festive season
Finally, planning a new orangery or conservatory in winter doesn’t mean you have to start construction immediately. By starting the planning phase now, you can enjoy the festive season without disruption, confident that your project is progressing behind the scenes.
When the time comes for installation, you’ll be well-prepared, organised, and ready to see your dream space become a reality.
Contrary to popular belief, winter is one of the best times to plan your bespoke orangery or conservatory. From greater availability and more time for design decisions to energy-efficient options and early bird cost advantages, December is the perfect season to take the first step.
By planning now, you can ensure a smooth, stress-free project that delivers a beautiful, functional space ready to enjoy for years to come.