Whether it’s a cosy reading nook, a dining area, or just a spot to catch the sun, a conservatory can be anything you want it to be, but it doesn’t always end up that way, does it?
So many people spend a huge amount of time and money building a conservatory only to find they never use it! Here’s what to do if you don’t want to end up amongst their ranks.
1. Consult an Architect
First things first, get an architect who knows what they are doing, on board. A good architect will help design a conservatory that complements your house, maximises light, and ensures it doesn’t end up looking like a bolted-on greenhouse. This will give it the best possible chance of being a room you all actually want to use.
2. Furnish it Comfortably
When it comes to furniture, comfort is king, right? So even if it might be traditional to use rattan furniture in the conservatory, you might want to go off-piste and choose pieces that invite relaxation – comfy armchairs, plush sofas, or a daybed, for example, Make it so you want to spend lots of time in there, rather than just five minutes with a cup of tea before your back and your bum start to ache!
3. A Touch of Green: Bring the Outdoors In
Plants can transform your conservatory into a lush oasis. Not only do they look gorgeous, but they also improve air quality. From towering palms to delicate ferns, greenery brings life to the space. Just remember to water them – nobody likes a conservatory that doubles as a plant cemetery.
4. Climate Control: Because We’re Not Always Blessed with Perfect Weather
Let’s talk, now, for a minute, about climate control. In the UK, weather can be more unpredictable than a soap opera plot. So, invest in good heating for the winter and ventilation for the summer. Your conservatory should be a year-round retreat, not a sauna in July and an igloo in January.
5. Lighting to Set the Mood
Lighting can make or break the ambience of any conservatory. During the day, you will obviously want to let natural light flood in, but, for the evenings, soft, warm lighting works wonders – think floor lamps, fairy lights, or even a statement chandelier if you’re feeling fancy.
6. Think Flooring
Flooring is more than just a surface to stand on. It’s a style statement, and something that can make or break your comfort levels too. Wood flooring can add warmth, tiles are great for a cool, Mediterranean feel, and carpets bring cosiness. Choose a floor that complements both the style and the intended use of your conservatory, and you will not regret it.
7. Blinds or Curtains?
The sun is lovely, but sometimes you need a little shade (and privacy). Blinds or curtains? That’s the question. Blinds offer a clean, modern look, while curtains can add a touch of elegance. Whichever you choose, ensure they’re easy to draw back – you don’t want to block out all that lovely light.
8. Personal Touches to Make It Yours
A conservatory should feel like a part of your home, not a clinical add-on or afterthought, so you will want to add things that make it feel warm and more “you”. Family photos, artwork, or even a quirky sculpture are all good shouts.
A conservatory is more than just an extension of your home; it’s a lifestyle enhancement, or at least it can be if you make all of the right choices right from the off!
Last Updated on 8 months by Lavania Oluban