Complete Guide to Conservatories: Types, Uses, and Price References
A conservatory is a popular type of home extension, typically made with glass walls and a transparent roof, allowing natural light to flood the interior. It not only increases your living space but also boosts your property's value, making it ideal as a dining room, study, lounge, or indoor garden.
After a busy day, nothing is more relaxing than unwinding in a conservatory. These comfortable home extensions let you enjoy the sunshine without worrying about insects, animals, or bad weather.
Why Choose a Conservatory?
- Increase Living Space: Provides extra room for your family without the need for major relocation or reconstruction.
- Natural Lighting: The glass structure allows maximum sunlight, reducing daytime electricity use.
- Versatile Use: Can serve as a living room extension, children’s play area, greenhouse, or home office.
- Potential Value Increase: A well-designed conservatory can enhance your home’s resale appeal.
1. Main Types of Conservatories
The market offers a wide range of conservatory styles, each suitable for different house layouts and budgets. Below are the most common types and their features:
| Type | Key Features | Suitable For | Price per m² (incl. installation) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edwardian | Square or rectangular layout, sloped roof, high space efficiency | Families who prefer simple, practical layouts | £1,200 - £1,600/m² |
| Victorian | Curved shape, multi-faceted windows, classic elegance | Those who appreciate traditional British charm | £1,300 - £1,700/m² |
| Lean-to | Single-slope roof, simple and affordable | Homes with limited yard space or budget | £1,000 - £1,400/m² |
| Gable-end | High roof with vertical front, excellent lighting | People who like tall, open spaces | £1,400 - £1,800/m² |
| Orangery | Higher wall-to-glass ratio, better insulation, usable year-round | Families seeking luxury and comfort | £1,500 - £2,000/m² |
| P-shaped | Combines Victorian and Lean-to designs | Owners needing multifunctional zones | £1,400 - £1,900/m² |
| T-shaped | Central protruding section, often connects to garden | Homeowners wanting symmetry and a visual focal point | £1,500 - £2,000/m² |
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2. Estimated Total Costs by Size
While price per square metre is a helpful guide, total costs also depend on materials, glass type, roof choice, foundation work, and more. Below is an estimate for different sizes and types based on UK average prices in 2025:
| Size | Lean-to | Edwardian / Victorian | Orangery / Gable-end |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10㎡ | £10,000 - £14,000 | £12,000 - £17,000 | £15,000 - £20,000 |
| 15㎡ | £15,000 - £21,000 | £18,000 - £25,500 | £22,500 - £30,000 |
| 20㎡ | £20,000 - £28,000 | £24,000 - £34,000 | £30,000 - £40,000 |
3. Common Material Comparison
| Material | Advantages | Disadvantages | Price Range (per m²) |
|---|---|---|---|
| uPVC | Low maintenance, good insulation, affordable | Limited appearance choices | £1,200 - £1,500 |
| Aluminium | Lightweight, strong, modern look | Conducts heat quickly, needs thermal breaks | £1,400 - £1,800 |
| Wood | Natural beauty, good insulation | Requires regular maintenance | £1,500 - £2,000 |
4. Design & Functional Options
When planning your conservatory, consider the following design aspects:
Glass & Insulation
- Recommended: Low-E glass + Argon gas filling to reduce heat loss.
- Triple glazing is ideal for year-round use, especially in Northern England and Scotland.
Roof Type
- Glass Roof: Excellent lighting, but summer shading may be necessary.
- Solid Roof: Better insulation and privacy, suitable for all-season use.
Flooring Materials
- Tiles: Durable and easy to clean, ideal for garden extension areas.
- Engineered Wood: Warm and cosy, perfect for living or dining spaces.
Heating Systems
- Underfloor heating: Popular and space-saving.
- Radiators or electric heaters: Budget-friendly alternatives.
5. Installation Process & Key Considerations
Check Planning Permission
- Most small conservatories don’t require planning permission, but larger ones, those near property boundaries, or listed buildings will.
Comply with Building Regulations
- Covers foundation stability, glass safety, and insulation standards.
Foundation & Drainage
- Ensure solid foundations to prevent water ingress or ground settlement.
Orientation
- South-facing: Great light but needs shading.
- North-facing: More temperature stable but less sunlight in winter.
Contractor Selection
- Compare 3–5 quotes, review portfolios, and check customer feedback.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Will a conservatory increase my home’s value?
A: UK property data suggests that a well-designed, high-quality conservatory can boost property value by around 5%–10%.
Q2: How long does installation take?
A: From design to completion, expect around 4–10 weeks depending on size and weather.
Q3: Can a conservatory be used all year round?
A: Yes, especially Orangeries or solid-roof conservatories with good insulation and heating.
Q4: Is maintenance expensive?
A: Mainly cleaning glass, checking seals, and inspecting roof structure — around £100–£300 annually.
7. Conclusion
A conservatory is not just a home upgrade but also a smart investment. Type, size, and material directly affect both budget and experience, so researching market prices and design options is essential before making a decision.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not provide any construction, design, or sales services.