Edwardian Style Conservatories

The regular floor plan is one of the main reasons homeowners choose an Edwardian conservatory. Straight walls make furniture placement relatively simple. Sofas, dining tables, desks and storage can be positioned against or alongside the main elevations without having to work around angled sections of wall.

This makes an Edwardian conservatory suitable for several uses. It can provide additional dining space next to a kitchen, a sitting room overlooking the garden or a home office with plenty of daylight. Larger designs can accommodate more than one use, such as combining seating with a dining area.

The square or rectangular layout also works well where the available garden space is clearly defined. The dimensions can be planned around the property and intended use rather than following a fixed standard size.

South Lakes Windows designs conservatories to suit individual homes, allowing the proportions, doors, windows and roof to be planned around the available space.

An Edwardian conservatory can incorporate traditional details without relying on old window and door technology.

Modern double glazed windows provide the insulation and weather protection required for an exposed glazed structure. Opening windows can be positioned to provide ventilation, while fixed sections can be used where an opening sash is unnecessary. UPVC is a popular frame choice for conservatories and is available in different colours and woodgrain finishes. Other materials may also be considered according to the project and required appearance. Glazing bars can be incorporated where homeowners want to emphasise the traditional Edwardian influence. Simpler glazing arrangements can provide a less decorative appearance for properties where cleaner lines are preferred.

The choice of doors also affects how the conservatory connects with the garden.

French doors work particularly well with the traditional proportions of an Edwardian conservatory. For a wider garden opening, bi-folding or sliding doors may be considered where the structure and dimensions allow. The position of the doors should be planned around both the garden and intended furniture layout inside the conservatory.

The roof has a significant influence on the appearance and internal conditions of an Edwardian conservatory.

A traditional glass conservatory roof retains the bright character associated with this type of structure. Modern insulated roof glazing provides better thermal performance than many older conservatory roof materials, while suitable glass can help control solar gain.

Homeowners who want a more enclosed interior can consider a solid conservatory roof. South Lakes Windows supplies systems including UltraRoof, which combines an insulated roof structure with a tiled external finish and an internal ceiling. A hybrid roof provides another option. The Ultraframe LivinROOF system combines insulated solid sections with areas of glazing. The glass can be positioned where additional overhead daylight is wanted.

This can be particularly useful where the conservatory is attached to an existing kitchen or living room and maintaining daylight into the original house is important. The roof specification should be considered at the design stage alongside the orientation, size and amount of glazing within the conservatory.

Older conservatories developed a reputation for becoming very warm in summer and cold during winter. Modern products provide much greater control over thermal performance, although the complete design needs to be considered. Energy efficient double glazing can reduce heat transfer through the windows and doors. Modern frames and effective weather seals provide further protection against draughts and external conditions.

The roof can also make a considerable difference. Insulated solid and hybrid roofs reduce the amount of overhead glazing, while modern glass roofs can use specialist glazing suited to conservatory applications. Ventilation is equally important during warmer periods. Opening windows, suitable doors and other ventilation measures can help manage internal temperatures. Orientation also needs consideration. A south-facing conservatory receives different levels of direct sunlight from one facing north or east. The glazing and roof specification can therefore be selected with the position of the conservatory in mind.

South Lakes Windows will consider these factors when developing the design rather than treating every conservatory in the same way.

Although associated with period architecture, an Edwardian style conservatory can work with many different property types.

The symmetrical shape can complement Victorian, Edwardian and other traditional homes, particularly where suitable glazing bars, frame finishes and doors are selected.

It can also provide a straightforward addition to a more modern house. Larger panes of glass, simpler frame details and contemporary colours can reduce the traditional influence while retaining the useful rectangular floor plan. Properties built from stone, which are common throughout Cumbria and the South Lakes, can also work well with this conservatory style. The adjoining walls, roofline and frame colour can be considered so the new structure sits appropriately alongside the existing building.

Every project starts with the property itself. The aim is to create a conservatory that works with the available space rather than simply attaching a standard structure to the rear of the house.

Some conservatories can be constructed under permitted development rights, but the rules depend on the size, position and individual property. Planning permission may be required where a proposed conservatory exceeds permitted development limits or where specific restrictions apply.

Different considerations can affect listed buildings and homes within conservation areas. This is particularly relevant across the Lake District, Cumbria, North Lancashire and adjoining Yorkshire, where many properties are subject to additional planning controls. Building Regulations requirements should also be considered as part of the project. The specification of the conservatory, its relationship with the existing house and the type of glazing and roof can influence what is required.

These points should be checked for the individual property before construction begins.