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POLL: Conservatory or extension?

4 years ago

Most people want a touch more space in their house.

If you could choose, would you prefer to have a conservatory or an extension? Do you already have one of these?

Complex Conservatory on Victorian Rectory · More Info

Chorlton extension · More Info

Vote below and tell us your preferences in the comments!

Featured Answer

nicolakwai

4 years ago

We have just added an extension. Its transformed the house and even on a dull wet day is full of light. We couldn't be happier.

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Comments (192)

PRO
MTA Chartered Architects Ltd
4 years ago
Always an extension as this can be used all year round.
PRO
Architects Office
4 years ago
Extension allows for more varied design options.
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That is a good point. I have thought of staggering the line at the back. Unfortunately that would not work with our garden as we have limited space at the back and the extension would shade a large area. The current living room is small and I am concerned we are creating a long narrow room. We have got used to the cosy space but when the family return home it is too small. The living room at the front will be more a snug/office space when we are finished. I am attaching some photos of the current room/conservatory.
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The Property Sunnedon House was built in 1870 in the historic village of Coggeshall near Colchester. Originally built by a factory owner who manufactured Isinglass, the building was sold to the Church of England in 1920 who ran it as a charitable home for unmarried mothers for 40 years. References to the house can still be found on adoption forums to this day. In 1960 the building was bought by a renowned London artist who divided the house into three properties, the middle of which is now my home. In 2012, after 18 years of living and working in London, most recently as a partner for a global management consulting firm, it was time for a change in career and lifestyle. Having completed the diploma course at Leith’s School of Food and Wine when I was younger and with a background in catering, I decided to start a cookery school giving day lessons that are fun, inspiring and help participants improve their cooking skills. I engaged Searchwells, a property search agency, and asked them to help me find a character property in the Essex countryside that had enough potential and space for a cookery school. Originally I was looking for a small cottage with a large outbuilding I could convert but as soon as I walked into this property, despite being different to my original brief, I fell in love with it. However, it did mean that with no outbuilding I needed to develop a different plan to house my cookery school. The Build When I moved in, the house had a basement kitchen, which was very charming as it contained the old original wine cellars and had lots of original features but although it provided lots of storage it didn’t have the space to run cookery classes. There was also a small conservatory to the rear of the building, which, whilst it added considerable space and footprint to the house, was unused because of the classic ‘too hot in summer, too cold in winter’ issue that you get with some conservatories. I knew I needed to adapt the house in some way. The best option seemed to be to use the existing conservatory but it was too small and therefore needed to be adapted and extended to be made suitable. I also didn’t feel that the conservatory in its current form complemented the style of the house. At this point, I decided to seek help from a professional. As I didn’t know Essex well, having lived in London, it was Searchwell’s who recommended Westbury. I first met Jonathan (the founder) from Westbury in August of 2013, and after meeting with him at the Westbury workshop and explaining what I was trying to achieve I decided not to investigate other companies as I liked his ideas so much, and the quality of the workmanship was clear. Jonathan suggested tearing down the unused conservatory and adding a garden room to house a kitchen extension in its place. As this would add to the footprint of the house, we needed planning permission, and much to my delight, after finalising the designs, Westbury took care of this, so it was no hassle at all. One of my main concerns was whether the new garden room would get too hot, especially with it being south facing and home to a kitchen. However, Westbury worked solutions into the design as a matter of course, including extractor fans in the ceiling to cool the room as well as to remove cooking odours as I have induction hobs incorporated into the kitchen island. They also suggested incorporating an outside tap and lighting into the build, making it truly practical. It’s these details which really set my mind on Westbury – they really did think of everything. After planning permission was granted, the build commenced late November/early December 2013, and took only eight weeks. Westbury worked hard to ensure that the new extension would fit with the original design of the house, with the fascia and soffit mimicking that of the main building in both design and colour. For example, blue beams and a circular window were designed into the gable end of the house to mirror the woodwork and the circular window seen in the main house, above the new extension. To complete the new space, Westbury recommended kitchen company Nicholas Anthony, who designed the layout and décor of the new kitchen and the fit out was complete in April 2014. The Cookery School The new kitchen extension is not only a great family kitchen but is perfect for my cookery school, The Green Apron which I launched in Spring 2016. The original basement kitchen is also still in place and acts as the ideal storage and preparation area for cookery school classes and all the washing up is instantly whisked downstairs. The cookery school has proved popular. I host day classes for all abilities with a variety of themes; Everyday Italian, Cooking Fish with Confidence, Vegetarian, Baking, and Thai and Moroccan cuisine. The new garden room is big enough for a sizeable kitchen island, which allows myself and up to eight course participants to all cook in the same space so classes are very relaxed, sociable and fun. Having the garden room as part of the house rather than as a standalone construction in the garden has also enabled us to use the garden really comprehensively. Westbury recommended a landscape gardener who redesigned the outside, creating a beautiful patio area which is perfect for entertaining or relaxing in summer. As well this there is a lovely lawn area, space for my chickens and a sizable vegetable patch which is a real boon for the cookery school; using homegrown, organic seasonal produce is very popular with class attendees, and makes the end result that bit more satisfying to eat! The Experience Westbury made every step of the process very easy, from the initial concept, to the planning permission, to the build itself. Jonathan visited the house and immediately understood what I wanted to achieve and explained how it could be done through the garden room design he conceived. Right through the process both he and the team at Westbury managed my expectations well; Sally, my first point of contact, was there every step of the way, proactively providing me with information and timescales as the project progressed. 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Hi, I've got a conservatory that faces SE and it does get very hot, not just in the summer but also in spring when the sun is low and shines directly in. It is lovely in there on the right day though. What I've done to manage the temperature is: kept the exterior-quality doors between the conservatory and the house so the house can be kept cool even when the conservatory is oven-like, the roof has a reflective surface to reduce some of the rays, the windows have both blinds and blackout curtains which I close on the sunniest days, the furniture is heat and fade resistant, plants have to be moved out on the hottest days. The above makes it sound like the worst room in the house but actually it is lovely so long as it is carefully managed. Good luck, whatever you decide.
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PRO
Damian Sheerin Architects
4 years ago
Conservatories give very poor heat management. In My experience most tend to be freezing in winter and uncomfortably hot in summer.
PRO
Evergreen Windows
4 years ago
A conservatory with a hi spec glass roof would be much brighter as well as being able to retain heat and deflect heat for example celsius glass
PRO
Delta Roof Systems
4 years ago
We agree a high spec glass roof can be very good but even an excellent overall U value achieved of somewhere in the order of 1.2 is almost 7 times the heat loss of the minimum 0.18 required with a solid roof meeting building regs
PRO
Westbury Windows & Joinery
4 years ago
We find that the majority of our clients opt for a semi glazed extension rather than fully glazed. This has practicalities in terms of temperature and year round use, but also in the placement of lighting, furniture, wall art etc. We find that the right balance of masonry and glass provides a fantastic and functional living space and, done right, will add value to the property and, more importantly, the homeowners lifestyle.
PRO
PWJ Architects Ltd
4 years ago
Both have their merits, however given the requirements for Building Regulations and the limits therefore imposed on levels of glazing, providing a Conservatory / glass extension would be difficult to achieve within u-values etc. This means a conservatory would need to be a separate room and not what clients are looking for. To open it up to the house, SAPs would likely be needed and costs could escalate anyway. It also depends on the use as conservatories really only offer seating areas, whereas extensions offer a wider choice of use. Therefore we would recommend extensions for function and performance.
PRO
Firman Reece Ltd
4 years ago
Over time I have always found an extension more useful throughout the full 4 seasons, where a conservatory is prone to both over heating, or being rather cold/hard to heat. Good luck though, whatever you choose.
PRO
Delta Roof Systems
4 years ago
Interesting recent comments! We believe solid roof extensions with substantially glazed walls are better for many of the reasons recently posted and will increase in value along with the home. Although we like conservatories and understand how they can allow light to an adjoining room and have a different 'feel'. Unfortunately long term they generally do not add value and indeed can be seen as something in need of upgrade therefore adding very little or no value at all.
PRO
Evergreen Windows
4 years ago
If you like the feel of a sunroom and to help keep cost down it is certainly worth looking at the Celsius solid roof which gives a great U Value and the appearance of a tiled roof at the same time
PRO
Delta Roof Systems
4 years ago
The Delta roof system for either lightweight or concrete tiles can offer a U value as low as 0.11
PRO
A&D Period Rennovations
4 years ago
The look and feel of a traditional Oak Conservatory or Orangery cant be beaten!
PRO
fiftypointeight Architecture + Interiors
4 years ago
Voting is currently 5:1 extension to conservatory ...

Extension every time for us
PRO
Thompson + Baroni Architects
4 years ago
Extension is actually usable space
PRO
TALUD
4 years ago
last modified: 4 years ago
Extension will enhance your living area!

http://talud.eu/portfolio/fran/
Craig Fyvie
4 years ago
The extension is more usable all year around.
PRO
Hunter Associates
4 years ago
Here at Hunter Associates we would definatly prefer the extension, much more usable year round and much less heat loss..
PRO
UTLL
4 years ago
More flexibility and design potential with an extension
PRO
Tuttle Architectural Services
4 years ago
We find our clients prefer extensions forl modern day living.
PRO
Richard Smith. Architect
4 years ago
Avoid PVC at all costs!. Many of my projects involve replacing conservatories with properly built constructions
PRO
Richmond Oak Conservatories Ltd
4 years ago
Our vote goes to a real oak conservatory - there's nothing nicer than basking in that warm glow of sunlight. Preferably with a nice cup of tea (or mulled wine since it's Christmas!)
PRO
Richmond Oak Conservatories Ltd
4 years ago
last modified: 4 years ago
It's a common assumption that a conservatory will be too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter. This can be true! Regardless of frame material, if there is inadequate ventilation or incorrect glass used, it is just as true today, as it was in the 1980's when Solar Control Glass wasn't available.

Many people will have experienced problems with older conservatories because of the materials available at the time. However, there is no reason for a conservatory or orangery to experience this now... it's all about FITNESS FOR PURPOSE.

The main reason many conservatories are still being built which are "Too Hot in the Summer and Too Cold in the Winter", is the poor quality advice, design & knowledge of products available to provide a solution; often the case at the lower end of the market where making a sale at any cost is often more important than having an interest in the clients needs. As a result often a conservatory or orangery is designed with inadequate ventilation, no roof vents and the lowest specification glazing.

Contemporary Oak Conservatories · More Info

Another key factor to consider when having a well-designed conservatory or orangery is sufficient natural light not just within the room itself but that of ensuring it is also provided to the adjoining existing room; something that is often forgotten about or not advised about at the design stage.

Kendrick Oak Orangery · More Info

Richmond Oak specialise in oak conservatories & orangeries that are designed & built to ensure they are a habitable living environment all year round as a result of using high specification glazing 0.9 U value in the roof glass 1.0 U value in the frame glass, sensible ventilation and under flooring heating.

Read more on this topic HERE
Sophie Clarke
4 years ago
Extensions are great all year round. They keep heat in the winter and stay cool in the summer, adding a roof a lantern means you still get plenty of light in your new rooms.
PRO
Paramount Construction HV Ltd
4 years ago
Extensions are usually preferable because in Scotland a conservatory is classed as temporary and is not allowed to be connected to the main heating system
PRO
Delta Roof Systems
4 years ago
Richmond Oak make very valid points for a well specified conservatory or orangery and in many situations these are great options However even modern high spec glass and frames combined is unlikely to give a U value (heat loss) better than 1. 0- at least 6 times the heat loss or heat gain of a Delta solid roof.
PRO
Cj Architects
4 years ago
Extensions are great all year round, less heat gain in the summer, less heat loss in the winter. Rooflights can offer a good way of introducing natural light rather than a completely glazed roof.
PRO
Design Haus Architecture
4 years ago
Extensions are longer lasting
PRO
Premier Roof Systems
4 years ago
Conservatories with Guardian Warm Roof are great for all year round use which comes in different styles and exterior colour and designs. Also they are not as expensive as extensions.
Guardian Warm Roofs · More Info

Guardian Warm Roof by Premier Roof Systems
PRO
John Kinsley Architects
4 years ago
last modified: 4 years ago
Ultimately it comes down to how you want to use the space. If you need extra floor area for all round use then a conventional solid insulated roof is essential. But there is something about the quality of sitting in a warm sunlit conservatory in spring and autumn when it's too cold to sit outside that can't be beaten! A nice inside/outside table that lets you move completely outside when it's warm enough allows you to seamlessly adapt to the seasons throughout the year...
PRO
friedlanderdesign
4 years ago
It is usually more energy-efficient to build an extension, although orientation and other siting factors will play a part in each individual situation.
PRO
Olive Grove Home Ltd
4 years ago
An extension offers a much more integrated addition to a house, usually reflected in the uplift in price that can be achieved.
PRO
Catia Interiors
4 years ago
Definitely Extension! It is a more modern option and you will get out of it specially on the valuation of the property.
PRO
Neil Pike Architect
4 years ago
Definitely prefer Extension! More modern option
PRO
Metre Squared Architecture
4 years ago
last modified: 4 years ago
Building an extension will always allow you to integrate the new space into the existing rooms when you want to have an open plan kitchen/dining/sitting area. Conservatories need to remain as a separate space due to the hit loss in winter or over heating in summer time. Creating an orangery is the best option in case you want the glazed space to be part of the house.
PRO
Carol Yates Design
4 years ago
As a Designer I would also choose an extension as you can always create a "Garden Room " style if need be...
PRO
Sterlingbuild
4 years ago
I once had a conservatory - far too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter. I hardly used it, which was a shame as it had a nice view.

^Emma
PRO
Merlin Fibreglass Flat Roofing
4 years ago
I would recommend an extension allowing you to open up your living space indoors.

Thanks
PRO
Delta Roof Systems
4 years ago
Tiled roof with some roof lights and glazed walls - best of both worlds! Bright and warm in winter - cool and bright in summer - perfect!
PRO
KJC Architects
4 years ago
Definitely an extension, conservatories are too extreme with heat gain and heat loss and not in keeping with the existing building.
PRO
Create Property Developers
4 years ago
Create have previously built both Extensions & Conservatories, Over 70% of clients who have had conservatories built have since been back in touch to transform their conservatory into a summer room. Removing the glass/polycarb roof and replacing with tile etc. Extension every time.
PRO
none
4 years ago
Conservatories are fantastic but an extension will add value to the property in more ways and provide a year round solution with the added space.
PRO
Delta Roof Systems
4 years ago
Replacing conservatory roofs with tiled roofs will generally need building control approval although a minority of local authorities say not. Be safe and always apply or use a company with JHAI certification to ensure a quality job and no problems if selling property.

Solid tiled roofs are definitely usable all year round provided they are properly insulated to meet or exceed building regulations

Many ' cladover' jobs would not meet regs or get approval so beware
PRO
CIF Builders Group
4 years ago
we believe a house extension will be better due to heat optimisation and durability in time
PRO
Michael Nicholas Design
4 years ago
last modified: 4 years ago

If you were our client, we would first assess which way the house faces in order to understand the direction of the sun and the likely impact on the space in terms of light and heat, plus we would ask what use you intend to place on the new space. It is also the case that with whatever heating - a fully glazed conservatory can seem an inhospitable space in the winter months.

Even in the UK heat gain during our short summer is a major consideration and whilst roof blinds can be added - these can spoil the original design intent. A part solid / part glazed roof with fully glazed walls may be the most successful.

Attached image of a garden room with a large strategically placed roof light and two fully glazed walls.
PRO
Ernest Tsui Architects + Partners
4 years ago
Extensions are the way to go. Conservatory is a less energy efficient solution
PRO
NDM Architects
4 years ago
last modified: 4 years ago
Extensions are the way forward to create an all year round additional family living space
PRO
Leicestershire Gardens Design Co.
4 years ago
Lots of our customers chose to have an extension with bi folding doors so they can extend their living area to outside!
lincoln18
3 years ago
Depends on the house. An extension with bi fold doors and lantern to the flat roof, appears the way forward. For many houses this is the correct decision, providing a large light filled room.

But a conservatory gives the ability to sit in the garden. To hear the rain. A room not filled with light but to sit in the light. Modern glass roofs and windows are so different to the early conservatories. We use ours 12 months a year. It can also be used to bring heat back into a house.

A conservatory, even to modern standards, is so much cheaper than an extension. So small extension or large conservatory? Large conservatory every time.
valeriegraham1234
5 months ago
Lincoln18 this is exactly what we are doing. Great to read a positive comment.
Ella Motahammadani
4 months ago
Both would be lovely aspects of a house but I have to say that an extension is more practical for the exterior of a house. It also easier to use my favourite type of door, sliding, glass doors! A conservatory also seems (to me) that the walls are closing in around you. However, an extension is airier as the building has been extended. This means you could add skylights which makes the atmosphere and general look of the extension lighter.

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