Conservatory Design Ideas For Period Properties

For the proud owner of a characterful heritage home, choosing the right conservatory can come with some concerns. In the past, the word ‘conservatory’ didn’t convey the most appealing image of what many homeowners may want to invest their time and money in.

However, at Coral Windows & Conservatories, we aim to change this perception, recognising the numerous opportunities a conservatory can bring to elevate your living space. With a wide range of conservatory styles on offer, the possibilities are endless. In this article, we will provide design ideas for creating a stunning, harmonious extension.

The Importance of Considering Heritage Design

Unlike younger homes and new build designs, the design of your conservatory will require more thought and consideration in order for it to emulate the property’s unique architectural features. For this reason, the “one size fits all” approach doesn’t work for period homes.

Finding a conservatory that complements or mimics the existing brickwork, rooflines, and current window styles will help to make a more harmonious look. Overall, the right design can enhance your property’s value and character.

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Classic Conservatory Styles for Period Properties

The first step in envisioning your new conservatory is to consider which conservatory styles best suit your aesthetic preferences and the existing architecture. At Coral, we offer a range of conservatory styles to best suit period properties, including but not limited to:

  • The Victorian Conservatory

This conservatory style is a classic option with a timeless aesthetic, perfect for traditional homes. The signature features of a Victorian conservatory include an ornate, ridged roof and a multifaceted end that creates a beautiful bay-like structure. The elegant charm and decorative detailing make it a popular choice for properties that have a more elaborate architectural design.

  • The Edwardian Conservatory

For homeowners seeking a simpler, symmetrical design, the Edwardian conservatory is the perfect choice. The rectangular or square shape of the conservatory provides a clean, elegant look that also maximises space. The appeal of this style is that it is incredibly versatile, blending effortlessly with various architectural types whilst maintaining a traditional feel.

  • The Lean-To Conservatory

The Lean-To conservatory style is arguably the most understated of the ones suggested so far; however, its incredible adaptability makes it the perfect solution for homes with limited space or low ceilings. Its signature simple, sloping roof and minimalist design offer a sleek, modern touch that can be softened with a few classic window details to suit a period property.

  • The Orangery

For a more substantial structure, consider an Orangery. Unlike a traditional conservatory, an orangery features more brickwork, often with large windows set into brick pillars and a flat roof with a central glazed lantern. This design provides a sense of permanence and offers a true extension of your home, blending the lines between indoors and out.

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Key Design Elements and Materials

Once you’ve chosen a style, the materials and finishing touches are what will truly bring the design to life. The window and door frames are a critical detail. While you could opt for traditional timber, modern UPVC in a woodgrain finish offers the look of wood without the maintenance, or you can opt for a classic white to match a Victorian or Georgian-style home.

Choose Your Heritage Conservatory with Coral

For your period home, there is a wide selection of options that will complement and help give your living space a new lease of life. From Victorian to Edwardian, Coral has you covered.

With endless opportunities to customise your conservatory to bring your vision to life, take the first step towards a living space you love by getting in touch with the team at Coral Windows.

You can book an appointment, request a callback, or start a free quote today on our website!

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Author

  • ​Steve Holdsworth embarked on his journey in the glazing industry in 1978 as an apprentice glazier within a three-person team. Demonstrating dedication and skill, he quickly advanced to lead his own team, focusing on aluminium and timber installations, as well as sealed unit replacements—a period when UPVC was still emerging in the U.K. In 1980, Steve briefly shifted to manufacturing sealed units but returned to his passion for window and door fitting in 1981. Over the next 13 years, he honed his expertise, adapting seamlessly as UPVC became the industry standard.​ Steve joined Coral Windows in 1994, expanding his repertoire to include conservatory installations alongside windows and doors. In 2005, Steve joined a fabrication facility in Freeport, Grand Bahama Island, where he dedicated 15 months, training local workers who were accustomed to aluminium on the nuances of UPVC window and door installations.​ Upon returning to the UK in 2006, Steve returned to Coral windows and assumed the role of Conservatory Manager, a position he held for six years before being promoted to Head of Installations in 2012. In 2015, after recovering from a stroke, Steve resumed his role as Conservatory Manager, a testament to his resilience and commitment to the company.​ Steve has a passion for music, mainly creating new songs via various apps, he has had 5 songs played on the radio in the U.K. Reflecting on his 47-year career, Steve remarks on the swift passage of time and the continuous advancements in the glazing industry, emphasising that every day remains an opportunity for learning.

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Categories: Advice