Shedding Light on Space Additions: Garden Room vs Conservatory
Variations in construction, purpose, and style distinguish conservatories from garden rooms, according to industry experts.
In the quest for more living space, you might be considering a garden room or a conservatory. While they share some similarities, there's a technical difference that could impact your home improvement project. Let's explore!
The Distinction
In general terms, a conservatory is attached to the house and has an external-grade door, making it a non-permanent structure. With the right permissions, a conservatory can be opened up to the rest of the house, creating a light-filled extension.
On the other hand, a garden room can be of various interpretations. Alice Hickling from Vale Garden Houses sums it up neatly: "The concept of a garden room is open to interpretation. Some consider it a standalone structure within the garden, separate from the main house. Others see it as a more robust extension of the home - featuring more solid masonry elements with a lesser proportion of glazing than a conservatory - while still providing beautiful views of the garden."
Other names you might encounter are orangeries and sunrooms. Knowing the definitions is crucial since some structures might require planning permission and building regulations approval.
When Sunlight and Serenity Reign
So, which one is better? The ideal choice depends on your house and outdoor spaces. If you wish to keep a conservatory close to a specific spot for viewing the garden, there's no need to consider a garden room.
However, if you have a large garden or one with a better view away from the house, going for some of your favorite garden room ideas could be a sensible choice. Garden rooms can be positioned as standalone features wherever you need them, making them perfect for quiet reading, working, or relaxing.
According to Tammy Daubney, Sales Manager at Green Retreats Garden Rooms: "If you have even a small outdoor space, a high-quality garden room offers a modern and hassle-free alternative to a conservatory. As a detached structure, a garden room provides a quiet, distraction-free area - perfect as a home office, gym, studio, games room, or creative space."
In Regards to Structure and Style
Conservatories are usually made from uPVC, although timber, aluminum, and composite options are available for a higher price. Garden rooms, in contrast, can come in a variety of styles - from a summerhouse with glazed patio doors to a fully insulated room with a bifold door.
Planning Requirements and Budgeting
Both conservatories and garden rooms can be constructed without applying for consent if certain limitations are met. However, it's essential to consult your local planning authority to determine what approval is required for your project, as regulations can be complex.
In terms of pricing, budget for around £10,000 to £20,000 for a conservatory or a garden room. The costs may increase depending on whether you'd like additional features or better materials.
Replacing a Conservatory with a Garden Room
If you're after a more permanent and stylish addition adjacent to your home, consider a sunroom or orangery instead. Their more solid structure and design make them a more appealing and valuable addition to your house, offering the benefits of garden views.
Happy designing, and may your garden room or conservatory dreams become a reality!
Sources:- [3]: https://www.marston-and-langinger.co.uk/blog/garden-rooms-vs-conservatories/- [2]: https://www.conservatory-pro.co.uk/index.php/conservatory-ideas/conservatory-costs-ideas/conservatory-design-ideas.html
A home office or a quiet reading space could be found in a standalone garden room, which can be strategically positioned in the garden for a better view and serenity. For homeowners seeking a light-filled extension that can be opened up to their home, a conservatory might be a more suitable option as it is a non-permanent structure typically attached to the house. Some homeowners might also choose home-and-garden solutions like orangeries or sunrooms, which offer a more solid and stylish addition to their homes, providing garden views and additional living space.
