Hampton Conservatories has compiled a list of the most common mistakes homeowners make when planning a new orangery or conservatory. With over 40 years of experience in designing and manufacturing glazed extensions, the company has worked with clients on properties of all types and yet sees the same potential errors, time and time again.
Seven common orangery and conservatory mistakes and resolutions:
- No consideration of the orientation: the design of the room should be largely influenced by the orientation of the sun and the time of day the room will be used, which will then also impact the size of the roof lanterns and the arrangement of furniture.
- Glare issues overlooked: direct sunlight causes excessive brightness which can be appealing on a dull winter’s day but it needs addressing during the summer, as glare can make it difficult to see screens, work comfortably and enjoy the room all year round. An orangery will offer better shade than a conservatory and low-e, tinted, or solar glass can also help to reduce direct sunlight exposure, as well as triple glazing with built-in blinds.
- Heating and ventilation miscalculated: inadequate heating and ventilation can make the space uncomfortable, especially if used for cooking or as a winter retreat. Consider underfloor heating for consistent warmth, a log burner for ambience, and electronically controlled roof vents for optimal air circulation. Properly insulated walls finished in plasterboard help keep warmth in the room, and cavity closers and foam seals eliminate draughts.
- Bi-fold door options an afterthought: if specifying bi-fold doors, the split of the doors, whether they fold in or outside of the room, and the stack of the doors once open must all be thought through otherwise the balance and proportion of the room will be compromised.
- Space without purpose is wasted: a room without a clear purpose may remain unused, making the investment less worthwhile. It’s important to ensure the room integrates well with the rest of the house and consider knock-throughs for better space utilisation.
- Assuming any hardwood is the right wood: Using incorrect wood types in specific areas can compromise durability and aesthetics. Different woods will be used for different purposes, such as the external joinery, mouldings and internal woodwork. Modified woods such as Accoya and Triocya sheets offer supreme stability as does Sapele Mahogany. Investigating the types of wood is vital to ensure the longevity and sustainability of the finished product.
- Having no maintenance plan in place: failing to maintain the orangery or conservatory can lead to significant damage. Homeowners should regularly manage climbing plants, clear gutters three times a year (particularly in wooded areas), wash down twice a year and keep up with the filling and painting of open joints to ensure the wood performs well and lasts longer.
Mervyn Montgomery, joint director of Hampton Conservatories said: “By selecting a reputable supplier, the homeowner will have peace of mind that they will be given sound advice during the planning stages of a new orangery or conservatory. A good designer will know to ask the right questions about the intended use of the room and will assess any logistical considerations of the site. Homeowners should also challenge the designer about the plans for their new glazed extension to be sure that it will deliver in terms of both form and function.”
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Rosey Bowring or Ali Cort
Browser Media
0207 099 0945
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Portrush-based Hampton (Hampton Conservatories) was founded in 1982 by Mervyn and Kim Montgomery and has since become a leading designer and manufacturer of bespoke hardwood glass buildings. It has developed unrivalled expertise in producing award-winning bespoke conservatories, orangeries, swimming pool enclosures, botanical glasshouses, garden rooms, and glazed pavilions.