Conservatories, Sunrooms/Orangeries

Conservatories

... are offered in a range of styles and sizes to suit every pocket and situation. The facets of a Victorian conservatory give it a classic and elegant look, and the angled roof provides a rounded and styled appearance.

Similar to the Victorian, the Edwardian conservatory does not have any facets, but offers an elegant look with strong bold lines. It is completely adaptable to suit all house styles and bungalows.

As the name suggests, the Gable conservatory design is a variant on the popular Edwardian conservatory, but usually erected against a gable wall.

The Lean-To is possibly the simplest and least expensive conservatory you can buy, but remains a very popular choice for those on a tight budget.

Sun Rooms and Orangeries

Considered a symbol of prestige and wealth in days gone by, they are now becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to a simple conservatory. They are a little more complex and solid in nature than a conservatory, and therefore a little more expensive.

Although glazed area is maximised to let in more light, an orangery will normally have a low brick wall and brick (or similar construction) corner pillars to support the roof structure which would probably be tiled. It would look more like an extension to your house than a simple conservatory.

Try to envisage your conservatory

... and what you intend using it for. Is it a playroom for the kids, a dining room, an office, or just somewhere to sit and relax?

Think about it as extra 'all year round' living space. Which direction will it face? If it faces south you will get the sun all day from early morning until late at night and will need to consider blinds and ventilation.

You may also want to consider performance glass in the roof. You can have glass that keeps the heat out or, if north facing, glass that keeps the heat in.

Once you have decided on the design and shape of your new conservatory, check to ensure it will look right on your house and doesn't take up all your garden space. Ideally it should look part of your house and not just an add-on.

Finally, please check with your local planning authority whether you need planning permission for any of the above options, also Sun Rooms and Orangeries will be subject to Local Authority Building Regulations approval. We can handle both of these situations for you.