Blog
Inside out!
Monday, August 12, 2019
Glass houses or conservatories became popular in the 16th century with rich landowners trying to grow citrus fruits which were being brought to England by traders from the Mediterranean. Orangeries, as they became known, were increasingly used socially as a space to entertain and also to grow a wider variety of “hothouse” plants. Fast forward to the 2ist century and glass extensions are a contemporary, versatile and beautiful way to create additional space that links garden and home. They are designed to take on a wide variety of functions from kitchen extensions to dining areas, home hubs, entertainment and utility rooms.
With increasingly high thermal efficiency, glass extensions now offer extra space that can be used year round, so offer potential for increased property values as well as having the benefit of allowing more natural light into your home and being an interesting architectural feature. In summer they allow the merger of home and garden for modern living at its best while in winter they offer somewhere bright yet cosy to relax.
Quality is key to having a room or area that you can really use throughout the winter so choose the highest quality materials and craftsmanship that your budget allows. Under floor heating or central heating and quality materials for thermal efficiency will keep it as warm as the rest of your home even in the coldest months.
Consider the layout, design and location carefully so that your choice is future proof. A modern glass extension will achieve this or opt for a traditional design which will be “timeless”. Furnish according to both function and design in equal measure and take into account which way your room faces when planning how you will use it. Think about how much sunlight it will get during the winter and summer and how exposed it is to wind and rain for example.
Depending on where you live, you may need to take the neighbourhood into account if you need to apply for planning permission. The style of your extension should be in keeping with neighbouring housing and, in general should improve the appearance of your home. Glass extensions and conservatories vary widely in price, with so many different options from a simple brick extension with orangery style roof and fully folding doors to contemporary glass cubes. When setting your budget weigh up whether a conservatory will add to the value of your home as well as improving your lifestyle. Whatever your budget, research your options, plan ahead, allowing for contingencies and stick to it. Then look forward to being able to enjoy your home and garden by merging indoors and out, whatever the weather.
