Deciding to add or replace your conservatory can be an exceptional way of transforming your living space; but with this form of home improvement ranging upwards in price from £5,000, up to £30,000 it pays to think of it as an investment (and with the average conservatory adding 7% to the value of a property, this is exactly what it is [The Telegraph]). Here we outline the considerations you should make when in the first stages of researching conservatories for your home.
First things first: Key questions to ask yourself
The following questions will help you firm up a few of the key details that a home improvement consultant will likely ask. They’ll also help you clarify in your mind what you’re hoping to gain from your new space.
- What is your budget?
- How will you use your new space and does it need to serve a dual purpose?
- What would you need in terms of electricity and lighting?
- How large a conservatory are you imagining? Have you considered the size of your garden?
- Will you want blinds? If so, you may wish to begin researching prices, as this can demand a budget of its own.
Types of Conservatories
Lean To conservatories
Lean To conservatories are the most basic form of conservatory, featuring simple, clean designs; they are especially popular for properties where there are low level eaves (such as in a cottage or bungalow).
Edwardian conservatories
Edwardian conservatories combine both traditional features with contemporary simplicity, and features in either a square or rectangular shape. They have pitched roofs that have an apex.
Victorian conservatories
Victorian conservatories are well known for their classic aesthetics, with a multi-faceted design and, similarly to Edwardian conservatories, pitched roofs. They also often have crestings and finials (two features that are commonplace on the typical Victorian property).
Gable conservatories
Gable conservatories have an air of stately charm about them; drawing their design inspiration from the Georgian era, these conservatories feature a high sloping roof (which provides for a feeling of space) and optional brick work. They can be either square or rectangular in form.
P Shaped conservatories
P Shaped conservatories team differing styles of conservatories to form a singular space; for example, a rectangular Edwardian conservatory may form the area attached to your property, whilst the protruding ‘P’ shape could be created from the circular form of a Victorian conservatory.
This option is popular with those who are looking for plenty of space, and they can also be used where you wish to link two separate rooms.
Topics to ask your consultant about
Further factors that you should ask your consultant about include the following:
- Building regulations
- Security
- Heating, insulation and energy efficiency
Conservatories: The importance of reputation
You may undertake all the research in the world, without the right choice of installer, your home improvement project could quickly transform into a domestic nightmare. When selecting an installer, researching reputation is a non-negotiable.
Shall we talk about your ideas and how you wish to use your new conservatory? Call the team at 1st Scenic Ltd, Kent – 01689 829 600, you can also email us via info@1stscenic.co.uk or visit our showroom: 37 High Street, Orpington, Kent, BR6 0JE.
