First popular in the 80s, conservatories were an affordable and straight-forward way of increasing living space for families. However, as they were often built from cheap uPVC panelling, and prone to freezing cold temperatures in Winter and unbearably warm temperatures during the Summer, they added minimal, if any value to a home, causing a subsequent reduction in sales.
Thirty years later and with increasingly sophisticated designs, the Great British conservatory has never been such a sought-after feature for today’s homeowners. The concept of a ‘glass room’ has actually been in existence since as far back as the 1600s, when orangeries were first used to grow tropical fruits and plants, which quickly became the height of social sophistication and therefore a popular entertaining space for the upper class.
Today, thanks to advances in colours and material options, a growing number of clients are seeking higher quality aluminium structures which will enhance their home life as well as adding kerb appeal to their property. In fact, many experts believe conservatories will soon become less of an afterthought and more an integral part of property design.
This is similar to the humble garden shed, which, once synonymous with storing garden tools, has recently undergone a remarkable transformation, with many doubling up as stylish home offices, outside gyms, party dens and even guest bedrooms. Sheds have become simple, cost-effective outbuildings that can increase a property’s value- and conservatories are next, say experts. “With stamp duty increases and difficulty in getting planning permission for basements, especially in London, people are trying to find other ways to add space,” says interior designer Joanna Wood. “A conservatory can be the perfect solution for a couple who are about to expand their family for example.”
This said, in order for a conservatory to add significant value to a property, high quality materials are imperative, along with effective shading to regulate solar heat and light entry to the large expanses of glazing, enabling a conservatory to be enjoyed to its full potential 365 days a year, rather than on an occasional basis.
By stopping the sun’s incoming solar heat radiation even reaching the roof glazing – upto 96% heat block, and filtering bright light to eliminate glare, our external roof blinds create a pleasant environment in conservatories, making them enjoyable for occupants, both thermally and visually comfortable along with eradicating the need for alternative cooling methods such as air conditioning.
With Summer just around the corner and 2016 expected to be another year of record-breaking temperatures, it’s the perfect time to get your external blinds fitted to ensure a cool, comfortable living space. To find out more information about the performance of our external blinds and/or to receive a free no obligation survey and quotation, contact one of our solar shading specialists today on 0344 800 1947.
You will also be able to see our products in action at the upcoming Grand Designs Live exhibition which kicks off this Saturday 30th April running through to Sunday 8th May at Excel London. Our specalists will be on hand to provide you with honest, expert advice plus you will benefit from exclusive show offers which offer our lowest prices of the year.
