Conservatory Styles
The appeal of conservatories continues to grow, with evolving designs catering to diverse tastes and needs. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the top 5 conservatory styles in the UK. We’ll explore their unique features, benefits, costs, and installation considerations, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle and budget.
Which Conservatory Style should I choose?
Conservatory Styles
Conservatory Style That Best Suites my Home
Are you dreaming of a sun-drenched breakfast nook, a tranquil home office bathed in natural light, or a lush indoor garden, the right conservatory can transform your living space and elevate your daily experience.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 5 conservatory styles that are dominating the UK market, delving into their distinctive features, practical benefits, and the lifestyle enhancements they offer. From the timeless elegance of Victorian designs to the modern simplicity of lean-to structures.
We will help you navigate the myriad of options to find the perfect conservatory that not only complements your home but also reflects your unique style and needs.
Whether you’re actively planning to expand your living space with a conservatory or simply intrigued by the current trends, this in-depth guide offers a tour of the UK’s five most sought-after conservatory styles. We’ll delve into each style’s distinctive characteristics, advantages, price points, and installation aspects, empowering you to make a well-informed choice that resonates with both your daily life and financial considerations.
So, let’s embark on this journey through the world of conservatories and discover how these versatile spaces can redefine your home and enhance your way of living.
Conservatory Styles
Imagine sipping my morning coffee while basking in natural light, surrounded by lush greenery, all from the comfort of my own home. This dream can become a reality with a beautifully designed modern conservatory.
Lean-to Conservatory
Also known as a Mediterranean conservatory, the lean-to style is characterized by its simple design with a sloping roof that “leans” against the house. This minimalist approach makes it an excellent choice for smaller properties or those with limited space.
Lean-to conservatories are the easiest and quickest to install among all conservatory styles. Their simple design requires fewer materials and less labor, making them an ideal choice for those looking for a straightforward and cost-effective option.
Edwardian Conservatory
Edwardian conservatories are highly valued for their practical use of space. The square or rectangular shape makes it easy to arrange furniture and use the room for various purposes, making them attractive to potential buyers and adding considerable value to your property.
Edwardian conservatories are characterized by their rectangular or square floor plan, which maximizes usable space. With a flat front and a symmetrical apex roof, this style offers a clean, elegant look that suits both traditional and contemporary homes.
Victorian Conservatory
The Victorian conservatory style is perhaps the most iconic and widely recognized in the UK. Its classic design features a bay front, steeply pitched roof, and ornate ridge details, creating a timeless and elegant appearance that complements both period and modern homes.
Victorian conservatories are relatively straightforward to install, thanks to their standard design and widely available components. Many manufacturers offer pre-fabricated kits, making the installation process even smoother.
Orangery
Orangeries originated in the 17th century as spaces to grow citrus trees, but today they serve as stunning additions to modern homes. An orangery typically features a flat perimeter roof with a central glass lantern roof, brick or stone pillars, and large windows.
Orangeries are more complex to install than standard conservatories but generally less involved than full house extensions. They require a solid foundation and more substantial construction, but the process is usually quicker than a traditional extension.
Materials: Brick or stone: For the base and pillars
Hardwood, uPVC, or aluminum: For window frames. Glass: For windows and the lantern roof
Timber or steel: For the roof structure.
Cost: Basic orangery: £20,000 – £30,000
Mid-range orangery: £30,000 – £50,000
Luxury orangery: £50,000 – £100,000+
Orangeries can add significant value to your property, often more than a conservatory. Their substantial structure and versatile use make them attractive to potential buyers, potentially increasing your home’s market value by 7-15%.
House Extension
House extensions involve expanding your existing living space by adding a new room or rooms to your property. They offer the most flexibility in terms of design and use, seamlessly integrating with your current home structure.
House extensions are typically the most complex and time-consuming option. They require extensive planning, often including obtaining planning permission, and involve significant construction work. However, they offer the most customization and can be tailored precisely to your needs.
Materials: Bricks or stone: For walls
Timber, steel, or concrete: For structural elements
Tiles, slate, or other roofing materials
Various options for windows and doors.
Costs: Single-storey extension (per m²): £1,500 – £2,500. Two-storey extension (per m²): £2,000 – £3,000. For a 4m x 5m single-storey extension: £30,000 – £50,000+
A well-designed and executed house extension can add substantial value to your property, potentially increasing its worth by 10-25%, depending on the size, quality, and local market conditions.
Conservatory Styles Average Prices
Generally, lean-to conservatories are the most budget-friendly option and the most expensive option is usually the P-shaped conservatory.
It’s important to note that these figures are estimates, and final costs can be influenced by factors such as glazing options, flooring choices, and any additional features or customizations.
Rough Prices for Different Conservatory Types:
Remember, the key to adding value is ensuring the conservatory is high-quality, well-proportioned to your home, and offers practical, usable space. A poorly designed conservatory, regardless of style, could potentially detract from your home’s value. Always consider the overall balance and appeal of your property when choosing a style.
Victorian:
Price Range:
Victorian conservatories typically range from £10,000 to £30,000, depending on size and materials used. Bespoke designs with high-end finishes can cost upwards of £50,000.
Edwardian:
Price Range:
Edwardian conservatories typically cost between £9,000 and £25,000, depending on size and materials. Larger, more luxurious versions can exceed £40,000.
Lean-to:
Price Range:
Lean-to conservatories are typically the most budget-friendly option, with prices ranging from £7,000 to £20,000. More extensive or high-spec versions can cost up to £30,000.
P-Shaped:
Price Range:
As the largest and most complex style, P-shaped conservatories are typically the most expensive. Prices usually start from £15,000 and can exceed £70,000 for large, high-end designs.
Gable-end:
Price Range:
Gable-end conservatories typically range from £12,000 to £35,000, with more elaborate designs potentially exceeding £50,000.
Orangery:
Price Range:
Lantern Roof Conservatories are generally in the mid to high price range, typically costing between £18,000 and £50,000+, depending on size and specifications.
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Discover which design could be the ideal match for your home and lifestyle. From classic elegance to contemporary chic, there’s a conservatory style waiting to transform your living space into something extraordinary:
Victorian Conservatory Timeless Elegance:
The Victorian conservatory style remains a perennial favourite among UK homeowners, and it’s not hard to see why. With its ornate detailing and classic silhouette, this style exudes timeless elegance that complements both period properties and modern homes.
Key Features: Multi-faceted design, typically with 3 or 5 facets. Steeply pitched roof with ornate ridge details. Bay front for a spacious feel. Ornamental crestings and finials.
Benefits: Adds character and charm to any property. Maximises floor space due to its shape. Offers panoramic views of the garden. Suitable for various purposes, from dining areas to home offices.
Installation and Longevity: While not the simplest to install due to their intricate design, Victorian conservatories are a popular choice among experienced installers. With proper maintenance, they can last 20-30 years or more, making them a long-term investment in your property.
Lifestyle Enhancement: The Victorian style is perfect for those who appreciate classic aesthetics and want a versatile space that can adapt to changing needs. It’s ideal for a cosy reading nook, an elegant dining area, or a charming space for afternoon tea.
Edwardian Conservatory Practical Sophistication:
The Edwardian conservatory style combines the elegance of the Victorian era with a more practical, squared-off design. This style is favoured by those who want to maximise usable floor space without compromising on aesthetics.
Key Features: Rectangular or square floor plan. Four-sided pitched roof. Clean lines and symmetrical design. Large windows for maximum light.
Benefits: Offers the most efficient use of floor space. Ideal for furniture arrangement due to its shape. Provides excellent natural light. Blends well with most architectural styles.
Installation and Longevity: The straightforward design of Edwardian conservatories makes them relatively easy to install. Their durability is comparable to Victorian styles, with a lifespan of 20-30 years when properly maintained.
Lifestyle Enhancement: The Edwardian style is perfect for those who want a versatile, bright space that can serve multiple purposes. It’s equally suited for use as a dining room, home office, or family room, offering flexibility as your needs change over time.
Lantern Roof Orangery: Architectural Elegance:
The Lantern Roof Conservatory style, also known as an Orangery-style conservatory, combines the best elements of traditional orangeries with modern conservatory design. This style is characterized by its distinctive raised central roof section, which creates a sense of height and grandeur.
Key Features: Raised central roof section (the ‘lantern’). Typically rectangular or square base. Combination of solid walls and large windows. Often features a parapet wall around the roof’s edge.
Benefits: Creates a dramatic, light-filled space. Offers excellent ventilation options. Provides a seamless blend of traditional and contemporary design. Suitable for use as a kitchen extension, dining room, or living area.
Installation and Longevity: While more complex than a standard conservatory, Lantern Roof designs can be installed relatively quickly by experienced professionals. With proper maintenance, they can last 30 years or more, offering excellent long-term value.
Lifestyle Enhancement: Lantern Roof Conservatories are ideal for those seeking a luxurious, architecturally striking addition to their home. The elevated ceiling height creates a sense of spaciousness, making it perfect for entertaining, dining, or creating a stunning kitchen extension. The abundance of natural light makes it an excellent choice for those who want to bring the outdoors in while maintaining a more solid, house-like structure.
Lean-to Conservatory Modern Perfection of Simplicity:
For those seeking a more contemporary look or working with limited space, the lean-to conservatory style offers a sleek and practical solution. Often referred to as a “Mediterranean conservatory,” this style is characterised by its clean lines and minimalist aesthetics.
Key Features: Simple rectangular shape. Single-sloped roof that ‘leans’ against the house. Streamlined design with large glass panels. Versatile size options, ideal for smaller spaces.
Benefits: Cost-effective option. Suitable for properties with height restrictions. Excellent for maximising light in north-facing gardens. Easy to heat and maintain.
Installation and Longevity: The simplicity of the lean-to design makes it the easiest and quickest to install among all conservatory styles. With proper care, they can last 20-25 years, offering excellent value for money.
Lifestyle Enhancement: Lean-to conservatories are ideal for those who want a bright, modern space that doesn’t overwhelm their existing architecture. They’re perfect for creating a sun-soaked breakfast nook, a compact home gym, or a tranquil space for plants and relaxation.
Gable-end Conservatory Dramatic Flair:
For homeowners looking to make a bold architectural statement, the gable-end conservatory style offers dramatic flair and a sense of grandeur. This style is characterised by its high, sloping roof that forms a triangle at the front, reminiscent of the gable end of a house.
Key Features: High, pitched roof extending to full height. Triangular front aspect. Large glass panels for maximum light. Often features decorative sunburst effect in the gable.
Benefits: Creates a sense of space and height. Allows for excellent natural light. Offers a striking architectural feature. Suitable for both traditional and contemporary homes.
Installation and Longevity: While more complex than a lean-to, gable-end. conservatories are still relatively straightforward to install for experienced professionals. Their sturdy design contributes to longevity, with a typical lifespan of 25-30 years or more with proper maintenance.
Lifestyle Enhancement: The gable-end style is perfect for those who want to create a stunning focal point in their home. It’s ideal for use as a grand dining room, a spacious living area, or even as a home studio where the abundance of natural light is a key benefit.
P-shaped Conservatory Versatile Luxury:
For those with ample space and a desire for maximum versatility, the P-shaped conservatory offers the best of both worlds. This style combines elements of both lean-to and Victorian designs, creating a unique and flexible living space.
Key Features: Combination of a rectangular section with a rounded end. Can be customised to suit specific space requirements. Often features different roof heights for visual interest. Typically larger than other conservatory styles.
Benefits: Offers two distinct living areas within one space. Ideal for larger properties or as a significant extension. Provides flexibility in use and furniture arrangement. Creates a stunning visual impact.
Installation and Longevity: Due to their complex design, P-shaped conservatories require expert installation and careful planning. However, when properly constructed, they offer excellent longevity, often lasting 30 years or more.
Lifestyle Enhancement: P-shaped conservatories are perfect for those who want to create multiple functional areas within one space. The design lends itself well to combining a dining area with a lounge, a playroom with a quiet reading nook, or a home office with a relaxation space.
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