JOHN BIDDE L L THE BENEFITS OF A CONSERVATORY
Well, it looks like we’re finally on the way. Our esteemed leader has just released his roadmap for a route out of the terrors we’ve all been enduring for what seems an eternity (yes, that does mean I’m late in submitting my ed- itorial – again !!!).
Finally we can look forward to resuming some kind of normality, and re-kindling those precious social contacts we’ve all been missing. At first of course it’ll be outdoor meetings, but soon (assuming we all behave like intelligent people) we’ll be able to welcome folks into our homes again. My goodness, I’ve got a feeling that’s going to seem pretty weird at first.
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But what a lovely time of year to be moving forward ! Just as nature is re-awakening we’ll be throwing open our doors with a real sense of hope for the future. And what better location to sit down with a coffee, a cake and a good friend than in a bright, airy conservatory.
For me, the biggest benefit of a conservatory is not that it is a room solely, or even mainly to be enjoyed in the height of summer when the temperature inside can be all but unbearable, but that it can be comfortable and inviting both in the spring and autumn, when the sun is shining but doesn’t have much heat in it.
I believe a successful conservatory is one that looks like it’s always been there, and it’s meant to be there. It blends in with the architecture of the house, both in style and proportion. It is thoughtfully situated with regards to both access from within the house, and its place in the garden. It doesn’t stick out like a huge blister, and its perimeters are softened by shrubs and plants, thus making it the perfect halfway house between indoor and outdoor living.
So how can we achieve this, and what are the pitfalls to look out for? If you are starting from scratch and planning to add a new conservatory, the first and fundamental point to consider is the function of your new room. Will it be an extension of a family area to provide extra all day space? Will it run off a kitchen to give an al fresco feel to dining? Or will it be a quiet bolt hole away from the hustle and bustle after a demanding day working from home? Of course, you may want it to be all these and more, but be careful not to try to cram a quart into a pint pot (sorry, that should now be 1.136 litres into a . . . no, it really doesn’t translate). A cluttered and over-furnished conservatory is a disaster, not only aesthetically but in practical terms too. As soon as the overall feeling of space and relaxation is lost, so is the desire to use it.
When considering the location of a new conservatory it’s also worth considering the impact it will have on the room to which it is attached. Generally, the addition of a conservatory, however thoughtfully designed, will take some light from the original room.
Two other elements that need to be taken into account at the design stage are heating and lighting. Whilst it is possible to make further provision for these at a later date, it will undoubtedly involve considerable upheaval, and stress that could be easily avoided. Heating in your conservatory is an absolute must. Thermostatically controlled under floor heating would be my first choice every time. Not only is it supremely practical in keeping an ambient temperature for any plants in the room, but it is certainly the most discreet in appearance. It’s always sad to see an oil filled radiator or an electric fan heater in the corner of an otherwise elegant and stylish conservatory.
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HOME S & INTERIORS JOHN BIDDE L L - INT ERIORS EXPER T
John Biddell - John Charles Interiors
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