We’ve enjoyed a long hot summer, and hopefully there are still a few weeks of fine weather left. If you’ve spent a lot of time in your garden this year, hosting social gatherings or simply relaxing, then you might have started to realise the benefits of a transitional space such as a bespoke orangery or conservatory.
These glazed extensions allow you to have shade from the more intense heat or shelter from sudden downpours, while still allowing you maximum light and views of the garden. Many homeowners assume that waiting until next spring or summer is the best policy for planning and installing their dream conservatory and orangery.
However, late summer and early autumn are actually ideal times for turning your dreams into reality. Here’s why.
Get ahead of the rush
If you want the job done properly with a bespoke design rather than an off-the-peg solution, it takes time. If you wait until demand is at its highest in spring and summer, then you may well be facing longer lead times.
Remember that it is not just a case of construction: you will need to undergo design consultations and revisions; in certain cases you might need to apply for planning permission or listed building consent; and bespoke materials will need to be ordered and manufactured.
By setting the ball rolling now, you can have your new space finished, furnished and ready to use by next spring or early summer.
The cusp of summer and autumn is inspirational
Now is a perfect time to appreciate just how you want to use your new space. The garden is still blooming and you will be able to plan for optimum views, and understand how you will use the glazed extension during the summer months. For example, it could be a sunny breakfast room, or a place for grazing tables and drink stations during outdoor gatherings.
Beyond this, we are just getting a taste of autumn in the air, with a hint of freshness, the first leaf fall and slightly shorter evenings. This can help you to reflect on the value of natural light in your home, and how you might use the space as the season progresses. Maybe you want an extension of your living space, a home office, or an arts and crafts room.
Practical considerations are more pressing
Leading on from the last point, it’s really important to remember that orangeries or conservatories are not just for summer use. This might have once been the case, but today a well-designed space can be used all year round.
Modern roofing systems, high-performance glazing and underfloor heating mean that the glazed extension can be used comfortably at any time of the year. As we approach autumn, it’s an ideal time to plan how you will use the space in the colder months.
A balanced approach to interior design
If you are planning the interior design of your conservatory or orangery in the summer, it can be easy to overlook crucial aspects such as lighting and soft furnishings. Autumn is an ideal time to envisage how the space will be used at any given time, with layered lighting in the evenings and cosier touches for colder days.
There is also loads of design inspiration around at this time of the year, with plenty of ideas about how you can harmonise the connection between your house and garden, as well as create a space for cosy winter gatherings.
A fresh start to look forward to
The winter can feel long and sometimes gloomy. Having a project on the go can be very energising, giving you and your family something to focus on and look forward to when spring finally arrives. It’s a fresh start, and you will also be future-proofing your home if your needs change, or adding value should you ever decide to sell.
Whatever your planned use for the conservatory or orangery, now is the ideal time to explore how it could transform your home.