The Bespoke Conservatory

If you are planning to build a conservatory you will find that there are a number of different options and different companies offering a variety of products. It may be daunting trying to decide what the best option is for you and your property.

There are different types of frames, different types of base, and different types of glazing to consider; it may be difficult to find the particular specification you require in the right type of style.

Some conservatory suppliers specialise in modern designs, while others offer Victorian, Edwardian and Georgian styles.

There are hundreds of conservatory suppliers out there, some specialising in modern conservatories, while others offer more traditional styles such as Victorian, Edwardian and Georgian conservatories of hardwood construction.

However, if you have a definite style in mind to match your property, it is not always easy to find something pre-designed, which meets your requirements.

An alternative is to design your own bespoke conservatory; one which is the exact style and shape that best suits your home and one which makes use of the exact materials you select.

Although it is usually the more expensive way to build a conservatory, by designing it yourself you can ensure that it fully enhances the value of your property, and meets every one of your requirements.

Designing a bespoke conservatory

One of the thrills of designing your own bespoke conservatory is that it will be completely unique. It affords you almost limitless possibilities in the size and shape and style, and allows you to truly put your own stamp on the design.

A bespoke conservatory can draw on several different types of design, and integrate them to make the best use of the available space. Unlike other buildings, conservatories are often designed from the roof down, and the frame is designed specifically to support the roof.

If the budget is a key factor in the design and build of your conservatory, there are several conservatory companies who will supply you with a complete bespoke conservatory kit ready to install.

The size and style of your proposed conservatory will determine what materials are supplied, and it is worth contacting several companies to obtain details about their service and to discuss the quality of materials they supply.

If you are not limited in cost, it could be worth employing a company to assist you with the entire process from the initial design right through to the installation. The process will consist of an initial consultation to discuss your requirements, followed by a presentation of the architect’s plans.

Once you have approved the design, the conservatory company will undertake a survey and deal with any planning permissions and building regulations. The parts which will make up your conservatory are specified and ordered from manufacturers, while technical drawings are produced to detail the construction process.

The conservatory company will then deliver the parts, and complete the full installation of the conservatory for you.

A bespoke conservatory may be required for bigger buildings, so may include a combination of different styles.

Styles

Any type of conservatory style can be used in a bespoke design, and there a plenty of different styles to choose from.

In general a bespoke conservatory may be required for buildings which will be larger than a standard conservatory and therefore may use a combination of different styles.

P shaped and T shaped conservatories often need a bespoke design and other types include gull wing, gable fronted and lean-to styles. The size and shape you have in mind, will determine which styles are incorporated into your bespoke conservatory.

When you are deciding on the style of your conservatory, bear in mind the style of your house and how the conservatory will complement it when finished. If you have a period property, you may want to stick with a more traditional Victorian, Edwardian or Georgian style. More modern properties often benefit from a well designed uPVC conservatory, which will give a more modern feel.

Materials

The choice of materials is what will set your bespoke conservatory apart, and there are several options for the frames, the roof, and the type of glazing you use. Typical hardwoods used for wooden frames include oak, pine, cedar and cherry, with English oak being the most popular; while uPVC offers a more modern looking alternative.

Glazing can come in a variety of specifications from simple double glazed units, to the more expensive self-cleaning glass. The type of bricks used for the base can also have a major impact on both cost and the look of the conservatory once complete.

If you can use materials which are similar in look and style to those already used on the house, it can give the whole property a flow and a continuation when the conservatory is added.

Costs

As a guide a  bespoke two metre square lean-to conservatory can be bought as a kit for as little as £1000 – £1500, while a bespoke Victorian conservatory of the same size could cost up to £2,500.

If you are competent with DIY, self building may be the cheapest way of installing a conservatory with the specification and size you have in mind. The top end hardwood conservatory companies may charge anything from £1200 – £1500 per square metre for the supply and installation of a bespoke conservatory; although these may be the most luxurious of conservatories, the cost could easily exceed £20,000 for a large conservatory.

Finding a supplier

There are many nationwide conservatory companies online, it is also worth getting quotes from several local installers. The advantage of using a company close to home is that you can check up on the quality of recent installations in the area and you have a local point of contact should there be any problems.

Summary

If you are struggling to find the right design of conservatory, and your property needs something unique and individual, it may be worth thinking about designing a bespoke conservatory. You can have as much or as little input into the design as you wish and it may be the only way to achieve the shape and style of conservatory you want, with the high specification you require.