Looking to enhance and expand your living space? Installing a conservatory allows you to create an airy, light-filled room that serves as a transitional area between your home and garden. They are incredibly popular in the UK, so if you are thinking of investing in one, here are five great reasons to consider adding one to your house.
1. Extra Space Without the High Cost of an Extension
A conservatory differs from a home extension in several key ways. Conservatories have glazed roofs and walls to let in natural light, acting as greenhouses adjoining the home. Extensions have solid roofs and walls, blending seamlessly into existing house layouts. Both can provide extra living space, though conservatories maintain more of an outdoor feel with better views.
Ultimately, choosing between a conservatory or extension depends on your budget, intended use and aesthetic preferences. Each option has pros and cons to weigh up.
Modern conservatories, such as those from the Home Design Group, provide a cost-effective way to add valuable living area onto your home without undertaking a full house extension. Whilst extensions require considerable groundwork, foundations and the roof tied into the existing house, conservatories are standalone garden room structures needing only floor foundations and basic services. This makes them a budget-friendly method of gaining extra family living and entertaining space.
2. Year-Round Enjoyment of Your Garden
A conservatory connects your home to the garden, letting you immerse yourself in nature without venturing outside. Made primarily of glass windows and roof panes, they allow unobstructed garden views and fill the room with natural light. You can enjoy watching rainstorms or the changing seasons from the comfort of your new lounging, dining or hobby space – no matter the weather outside.
3. Added Property Value
Adding a conservatory can significantly increase the resale value of your home. Not only does it provide a flexible room that appeals to buyers, but it also adds floor space without the high initial outlay of an extension. Conservatories are a sought-after feature that can set your property apart, making it more attractive on the real estate market. Their affordable price makes them an investment that should recoup costs and provide good returns.
4. Flexible Room for All Uses
Conservatories are versatile spaces perfect for a range of uses. Glazed on all sides, they are filled with light, making them ideal lounges for casual family meals or entertainment areas. Without internal walls, you can easily fit a variety of furniture configurations, using the space how you wish. Conservatories also make perfect hobby rooms, home offices, play areas for kids or spots to enjoy a little self-care. You determine the use according to your lifestyle and needs.
5. Creates a Transition Between Indoors & Outdoors
Unlike more formal extensions, conservatories have a lightweight, garden-room feel with lots of windows and views of your outdoor space. This makes them perfect as a transitional area between the main house and garden. Bi-fold doors mean the room can be opened entirely during warm weather, creating an indoor-outdoor space to enjoy. Conservatories expand your living area out into the garden, letting you take full advantage of the property you own.
What to Consider Before Adding a Conservatory To Your Home
Thinking of adding a conservatory to your home? A conservatory can provide extra living space and allow more natural light into your home. However, there are several factors you’ll want to consider before taking on such a project.
Usage
First, think about how you plan to use the conservatory. Will it be an extra lounge for relaxing? A dining area? A playroom? Determining the intended purpose will help guide your choices in size, layout and features. Consider when you’ll use the space as well – if mainly in summer, ventilation is key, but if you’ll use it year-round, efficient heating is vital.
Size
The size of your conservatory will impact everything from cost to temperature regulation. Smaller lean-to conservatories may be most affordable, while large Victorian-style builds maximise space but dwarf gardens. Be realistic about what you need and what your budget allows. Remember to measure accessibility too – larger conservatories may require step-free access.
Position
Conservatory position affects light levels and views, but also drainage, foundations and access. South-facing positions get the most sunlight, while east-facing ones get morning light and west-facing sunset light. North-facing ones will be shadier. Also consider existing features that may be impacted – pathways, trees and utility lines.
Materials
Glass roof conservatories let in more light but can overheat in summer. Polycarbonate roofs cost less while providing good insulation. Solid roofs give the most weather protection but reduce natural light. Consider wall materials too – glass, solid walls or a mix. Check what planning permission different materials may require.
Costs
Conservatory costs vary greatly depending on size, materials and special features, ranging from £5,000-£20,000+. Create a thorough budget accounting for the build itself but also prerequisites like foundations, access, utilities connections and planning permission fees. Factor in post-build costs as well like furniture, heating and redecorating too.
Planning Permission
When it comes to adding a conservatory to your home, planning permission requirements differ depending on the type and size. Typically, you can build a single-storey conservatory of up to 4 metres high at the side of your home without needing planning permission. However, any conservatory extending beyond 5 metres from the rear wall would require permission. More complex conservatory types with special features may also call for permission, even if within size limits.
If in doubt, check with your local planning authority to determine if permission is needed before starting construction on a new conservatory for your home.
By weighing up these key considerations before contacting builders or conservatory companies, you can decide if adding a conservatory is right for your home and family. Careful planning now makes for a smooth process and years of enjoying your new space.
Adding a conservatory to your home comes with many perks. Creating a light, airy space; boosting property value; enabling garden views year-round; providing versatile room uses, and seamlessly joining indoors with outdoors – there are so many smart reasons to invest in one. Blending functionality with aesthetic appeal, conservatories are an on-trend, lifestyle-enhancing addition to any home.
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This post is brought to you by Kristina Rodposka.
Image by Kimberly Montgomery from Pixabay