The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Conservatory Style for Your Home
Adding a conservatory to your home is a wonderful way to create a space that seamlessly blends the indoors with the outdoors. It not only increases your living area but also enhances the aesthetic appeal and value of your property. However, selecting the right conservatory style is crucial to ensure that it complements your home’s architecture, suits your lifestyle, and serves its intended purpose.
With five different types of conservatories available, each with its unique style and aesthetic impact, it is important that you understand the differences so you can choose a conservatory that fits seamlessly with your home.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the various conservatory styles, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your preferences and needs.
Understand Your Goals
Before diving into the world of conservatory styles, take some time to reflect on your goals and intentions for this new addition to your home. Are you looking for a space to relax, entertain guests, grow plants, or all of the above?
From structure, layout and even location against your house, the purpose of your conservatory will dictate most of your decisions. But the first, and perhaps the most influential impact it will have is on the type of conservatory you choose.
Conservatory Styles
Victorian Conservatory:
Victorian conservatories are known for their elegant design and ornate detailing. They typically feature a bay front, a steeply pitched roof, and a rounded shape. This style is perfect if you want to add a touch of classic charm to your home.
Edwardian Conservatory
Edwardian conservatories are characterised by their rectangular or square shape and a pitched roof. They offer a more modern and symmetrical appearance, making them ideal for those seeking a versatile and functional living space.
Lean-To Conservatory
A lean-to-conservatory, also known as a sunroom or garden room, is a simple and cost-effective option. It has a single-sloped roof that leans against the existing wall of your house. This style is great for smaller spaces and contemporary homes.
P-Shaped Conservatory:
If you can’t decide between an Edwardian and a Victorian conservatory, the P-shaped style combines the best of both worlds. It offers a versatile and spacious layout, perfect for multifunctional use.
Gable-End Conservatory:
Gable-end conservatories are characterised by a triangular front with a vertical roof. This style creates a grand and impressive appearance, making it ideal for larger homes.
Orangery:
An orangery is a luxurious option that combines elements of both a conservatory and a traditional extension. It features solid brick walls with large windows and a lantern-style roof. Orangeries provide a sophisticated and versatile living space, and due to their features, they are often considered a category of their own.
Consider Your Home's Architecture
Ensure that the conservatory style you choose harmonises with the architectural style of your home. A Victorian conservatory might look out of place on a sleek, modern home, while an Edwardian or lean-to style may complement it beautifully.
Budget and Planning
Determine your budget early in the planning process. Each conservatory style has its own cost considerations, and your budget will influence your choice of materials, size, and additional features.
Location and Orientation
Consider the orientation of your conservatory concerning sunlight and views. Depending on your preferences, you may want a conservatory that captures the morning or evening sun or offers scenic views of your garden or surroundings.
Planning Permission and Regulations
Check local building regulations and planning permission requirements. Some conservatory styles may have limitations or require approvals, so it’s essential to be aware of these before proceeding.
Additionally, where you live might have additional planning permission requirements that need to be followed. For example, the New Forest is known to have extra considerations. Our experts are highly knowledgeable about planning permission requirements, so if you are unsure about your area, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us for our advice.
Expert Advice When Choosing The Perfect Conservatory Style
Choosing the perfect conservatory style for your home is an exciting but important decision.
By understanding your goals, considering your home’s architecture, budgeting carefully, and taking into account other relevant factors, you can confidently select a conservatory style that enhances your living space and complements your lifestyle.
Whether you opt for the classic charm of a Victorian conservatory, the versatility of an Edwardian style, or something entirely unique, your conservatory will become a cherished extension of your home.
The team at Richard Thomas are experts in the design and construction of each type of conservatory. With their years of experience, they know which conservatory type suits every style of home. Whether you have already decided on adding a conservatory or are unsure whether to build a conservatory or extension, we are happy to talk through your vision.
We can work with you to design a bespoke conservatory that not only suits the aesthetic of your home but also meets your goals for the extra space. With the purpose of the space in mind, we will work with you to choose the right doors and windows, roofing (we would usually recommend a solid conservatory roof), and finishing touches such as fascias, guttering and soffits.
Contact our friendly team on 01202 488944 or complete our online contact form with your questions, and we will call you back to discuss the answers.
