Bespoke Windows & Conservatories
The origins of conservatories were the 17th century orangeries which were added to grand houses to grow plants which would not stand the rigors of the outdoor weather. They began to be used as stopping off points on walks, and gradually moved closer to the house as an additional room. As materials have improved over the years, allowing for better insulation, they have become more and more popular. There is something special about a conservatory - the feeling of the outdoors inside.
Planning your conservatory
The first thing to consider is what will the
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This should help you decide which room your conservatory should lead off from. A general tip is that a conservatory which is attached to a room which is used a lot will be a well used conservatory, and a conservatory leading from a little used room will become a little used conservatory.
Planning permission is not usually required unless you are extending a listed building, are in a conservation area or exceed the permitted development limit for your property, which varies from area to area, but is usually 50-70m². This is the total permitted area so if the property had previously been extended, some of your allowance will have already been used. Contact your local council and obtain more information specific to your own area.
Building regulations only apply if the conservatory exceeds 30m² floor space, has no connecting doors to the property, or is a kitchen/conservatory extension. Again, it is advisable to check details with your council.
One of your first considerations will be the size of the conservatory. Mark out the area with sticks and string. Mark out both the internal and external measurements. You will want to see the effect on the garden from the external measurements, and these are the measurements suppliers will quote you. It will probably be more interesting for you to see the internal measurements. Fill the area with furniture such as sofas and plants to make sure you have as much room as you would like.
 | You will be asked to decide what materials you
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PVCU is the most popular. It combines low maintenance with low cost. It can come in white or wood grain. It is however not favoured by planners in conservation areas or on listed buildings.
Hardwood is suitable for listed buildings. It requires periodic maintenance and can be finished with paint or wood stain.
Aluminium conservatories are less common on house conservatories. It is more expensive than PVCU and not such a good insulator. It is however very strong and often used on commercial buildings.
Try to match any brickwork and render details with your existing building so that it looks like an integral part, not an add on.
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