Due to advances in construction methods, conservatories are now a thermally sound and cost-effective way to add valuable living space. Fortunately, the days of being restricted to a singular design of a glazed structure with a pitched roof are long gone. Today there are hundreds of design combinations and additional features you can add to make your new space unique. If you own a period property, you will likely want to select timeless features that mimic the architectural design of your cherished home. However, if your property has a more modern-day feel, then you may want to opt for a minimalistic and sleek style.
The design of your new conservatory can be a hard decision to make, so we have put together a number of traditional and modern conservatory ideas, to help you decided which features are best for you.
Traditional Conservatory Features
Traditional conservatory styles commonly include the Victorian, Georgian, Gable, and P shape design. However, below are 5 fantastic features that can enhance your traditional design further:
1. Glazed roof
A completely glazed roof is a staple for traditional conservatories. The large area of glass allows natural light to flood the room, creating a bright and airy environment you can enjoy all year round.
2. Dwarf wall
A dwarf wall is a short brick wall that runs around the bottom of the structure and holds the glazing into place. They are best suited to brick properties, as dwarf walls can help the conservatory seamlessly blend with your current exterior.
3. Ornate detailing
Ornate detailing is the bespoke patterns found on the eaves or ridge of a conservatory. Popular during the Victorian period, the distinctive designs along with crestings and finials can give any conservatory a classical touch.
4. High pitched roof
A high-pitched roof adds a grand finish to your glazed extension. Making your conservatory feel extra spacious, this triangular shaped roof best complements homes with high ceilings.
5. Decorative glazing
Decorative glazing includes bevelled glass, etched glass, Georgian bars to leaded windows. The most popular lead designs are the classic diamond lead or traditional square lead. However, the design of your decorative glazing can be tailored to suit your individual taste.
Modern Conservatory Features
Below are 5 features that can transform your new conservatory design into an ultra-modern masterpiece:
1. Flat sloped roof
Perfect for spaces with restricted heights, the flat sloped roof’s simple profile and slim sight-lines allow it to suit most styles of properties. The lean-to profile is popular among South East homeowners due to the fact it can easily be tailored to fit into awkward areas, without having to compromise on overall aesthetics.
2. Solid or tiled roof
A solid or tiled roof can instantly make your conservatory look like a part of the house that has always been there. It takes away the aesthetic of a modest glazed extension and gives it a grand brick extension appearance. Our solid and tiled roofs also have great thermal benefits and allow you to integrate light features such as spotlights – which is simply not possible on fully glazed conservatory roofs.
3. Lantern roof
A sure way to add the ‘wow factor’ to your conservatory or extension, the lantern conservatory roof is a truly unique style that offers an eye-catching and distinctive look. Again, this type of roof allows you to integrate lighting features.
4. Anthracite Grey frames
A more simplistic structure than a conservatory with a dwarf wall, a fully glazed structure with Anthracite Grey (or black) frames, windows, and doors will give your conservatory the desired minimal and contemporary appearance. Not only will this modern conservatory style influence the aesthetic, but it will also give you clear and unobstructed views of the garden.
5. Bi-folding doors
The ultimate modern statement, bifold doors utilise a concertina fold which allows them to stack up on one side, creating an open-plan space between your conservatory and garden. Perfect for those who enjoy entertaining, bifold doors offer convenience and style!
Customisable conservatories for homes in Essex and Suffolk
At Halstead Glass we offer custom-made, one-of-a-kind creations that consider the space available in your garden and your personal taste. Many of our customers have even combined ‘modern’ and ‘traditional’ features to give their homes the unique and charming appearance they desire.
Our dedication to our customer’s individual tastes, along with our specialised services and high-quality installations, is one of the reasons we are one of the top recommended double-glazing companies in Essex and Suffolk! Contact us today and one of our glazing experts will be in touch soon to help you with your home improvement project.