7 Ways to Design the Best Conservatory

Conservatories used to be dedicated to growing plants, but these days they are used for much more. A conservatory has now blended in with a garden room, orangery and sunroom, so you can get the best conservatory by taking all the parts you like the most and putting them together.

To get the best design, there are 7 things you can do to help the process along.

1. Think about how you’ll use it

What is going to be the main use of your conservatory? This will affect your design. If you want to do your gardening in your conservatory you’ll have very different needs compared to if you want to entertain in there.

2. Make the design work for you

The design of your conservatory should reflect what you’re going to use it for. You’ll want to ensure you have enough floor space if you’re going to use it as an entertaining room.

And whether you’re going to grow plants in your conservatory or use it as an extra living space, you’re going to want to make sure that the design allows you to get the right amount of light in to make it a beautiful space for you to enjoy.

3. The best conservatory faces north

Yes, believe it or not. You might think that a south-facing aspect makes the most sense, but during the summer the sun can burn through glass and the rays are magnified. The air will also become uncomfortably hot and dry, and can encourage pests and disease.

Of course, you can still benefit from a south-facing conservatory, but investing in blinds is a must.

best conservatory ventilation
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4. Don’t forget about ventilation

Think about adding roof vents so you can release build up of hot air, which will be vital if your conservatory is south-facing. You can add in low vents to draw out low-level air, but of course, doors will do this too.

5. Glass

Don’t bother with effects like coloured glass, especially as this could clash with the furniture you choose. Clear glass will allow excellent views into your garden. If your conservatory is north-facing, buy low-emissivity glass to reduce heat loss, while if your conservatory is south-facing you could benefit from solar-controlled glass.

6. Heating

If you’re planning on growing plants in your conservatory, you’ll need to think about the temperature the plants will need to grow. It’s not just about what’s comfortable for you! If you want to grow tropical plants like palms, you’ll have to heat your conservatory to the same temperature as the rest of your home, i.e. 21C.

If you’re using your conservatory purely for growing, keeping a winter temperature of 10C in your conservatory will enable you to grow Mediterranean plants that will flower all year round.

7. Consider planning regulations

Most conservatories will not need planning permission as they’re under the Permitted Development rights. You just have to make sure that the conservatory is not over a certain size and height. But if you live in a conservation area or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, there will be further conditions that you’ll need to check first.

You’ll get the best conservatory you could have asked for if you take these design features into account. Discuss your options with a reputable conservatory installer who will be able to advise on what is best for you.

Simply start a new project to get in touch with up to 4 conservatory companies who can help you decide on the best one for you.