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Adding a conservatory to your Surrey home isn’t just about extra space, it’s about creating a brighter, more flexible living area that suits your lifestyle. From classic Edwardian designs to thermally efficient warm roofs, this guide is tailored to Surrey and their architectural styles.
Types of Conservatories
Edwardian conservatories are a Surrey favourite for their square or rectangular shape and high pitched roofs to maximise space and light. Perfect for period homes or modern builds, these come with:
- Solar-control glass roofs to reduce summer heat.
- Optional dwarf walls (part brick, part glass) for insulation.
- Multi-point locking systems for security.
Why Surrey loves them: They work well in towns like Guildford and Woking, to blend indoor and outdoor spaces. Upgrade to a Chartwell Green Conservatory for a modern twist on this classic style.
What is an Edwardian Conservatory?
This conservatory type is square or rectangular in shape with a flat front. It’s a popular choice for homeowners who want to add a stylish and functional living space to their home. They are known for their clean lines, minimal frame and large glass panels all around, allowing lots of natural light to pour in.
History of Edwardian Conservatories
The Edwardian conservatory style was born during the Edwardian era which was from the late 19th to early 20th century. During this time conservatories became a feature in many homes, especially among the wealthy. The Edwardian style was influenced by the Victorian era but is more minimalist and understated. Today these conservatories are a popular choice for homeowners who want to add a touch of elegance to their home.
Benefits of Edwardian Conservatories
Edwardian conservatories offer:
- Lots of natural light: The large glass panels all around the conservatory let lots of natural light in making it a bright and airy space.
- Versatility: They can be used for many purposes, dining room, living room or home office.
- Space: They also provide plenty of floor space, ideal for larger families or to create a spacious living area.
- Style: Edwardian conservatories have clean lines and minimal frame, making them a stylish and sophisticated addition to any home.
Designing Your Edwardian Conservatory
When designing your conservatory you need to consider:
- Size: The size of your conservatory will depend on the space available and the purpose of the room.
- Style: You can choose from traditional or modern designs.
- Materials: You can choose from UPVC, aluminum or wood.
- Roof: You can choose from glass, polycarbonate or tiled roofs.
- Frames: You can choose from white, cream or wood grain.
Conservatory Materials and Frames
When it comes to choosing the materials and frames for your conservatory you have several options to consider. These include:
- UPVC: A popular choice for conservatories, UPVC is durable, low maintenance and energy efficient.
- Aluminium: A sleek and modern option, aluminium is strong, durable and corrosion resistant.
- Wood: A traditional choice for conservatories, wood is natural, sustainable and adds warmth and character to your home.
- Glass: A popular choice for conservatory roofs, glass lets lots of natural light in.
- Polycarbonate: A cost effective option, polycarbonate is durable and low maintenance and ideal for conservatory roofs.
- Tiled roofs: A stylish and sophisticated option, tiled roofs add elegance to your conservatory.
Lean-To Conservatories: Simplicity and Versatility
What is a Lean-To Conservatory?
A lean-to conservatory is a simple type of conservatory that is perfect for homeowners who want to add extra space to their property without breaking the bank. Characterised by their rectangular shape and sloping roof, lean-to conservatories are a popular choice for those seeking a low-maintenance and an affordable extension.
Benefits:
Lean-to conservatories offer a range of benefits, including:
- Affordability: They are a cost-effective way to add a conservatory to your property.
- Simplicity: They are easy to design and build, making them a great choice for homeowners who want a hassle-free extension.
- Versatility: They can be built in a range of styles and materials, making them a versatile choice for homeowners who want a unique and personalised extension.
Designing Your Lean-To Conservatory
When designing your conservatory, there are a range of factors to consider, including:
- Size and shape: They can be built in a range of sizes and shapes, making them a great choice for homeowners who want a customised extension.
- Materials: Lean-to conservatories can be built with a range of materials, including uPVC, aluminium, and wood.
- Roof style: They can be built with a range of roof styles, including polycarbonate, glass, and tiled roofs.
- Colour and finish: Finished in a range of colours and styles, making them a great choice for homeowners who want a personalised extension.
By considering these factors, you can design a conservatory that’s right for your home and meets your needs.
Victorian Conservatories: Classic Elegance
Victorian conservatories add ornate details to Surrey homes with rounded bay fronts and leaded glass . Compared to a Georgian conservatory, which features a rectangular shape and minimalist look, a Victorian conservatory are characterised by their ornate roof ridge and bay front, also known for their iconic gothic arched glazing bars and decorative crestings. They have:
- 3- or 5-faceted bay designs for a rounded look.
- Energy efficient double glazing and uPVC frames.
- Space for climbing plants like ivy or wisteria.
- Surrey tip: Add a traditional lantern roof to get more light and warmth in winter.
Orangeries: Luxury and Practicality
Orangeries have brick pillars and glazed roofs for a warmer, more insulated space than a conservatory. Features include:
- Lantern-style or parapet glass roofs for dramatic light.
- Customisable shapes (square, rectangular or bow-fronted).
- Optional underfloor heating for all year round comfort.
Ideal for: Surrey homeowners in areas like Farnham or Dorking who want a multi-functional kitchen, lounge or home office.
Warm Roof Upgrades: All Year Round Comfort
Swap your old polycarbonate roof for an Icotherm warm roof and turn your conservatory into a usable space all year. Benefits include:
- Thermal efficiency U-values as low as 0.8 W/m²K.
- Lightweight timber designs no planning permission required.
- Transform your conservatory into versatile living spaces with custom finishes, lighting and glazing options.
Cost insight: Call for our best prices, 10 year guarantee.
FAQs: Conservatories in Surrey
Q: Do I need planning permission for a conservatory? Most projects fall under permitted development if they’re under 8m² (detached homes) or 6m² (terraced) and use 50% glazed materials. Always check with Surrey County Council especially in conservation areas.
Q: How energy efficient are modern conservatories? Double glazing and warm roofs are extremely thermally efficient. Self cleaning glass and solar-control coatings make them even more efficient.
Q: Can I turn my old conservatory into a year round room? Yes! Icotherm roof replacements take a week or under and retains 70% more heat than older designs.
Q: What materials are best for Surrey’s climate? uPVC and aluminium low maintenance and durable. For a premium finish go for anthracite grey frames or wood-effect finishes.
Q: When designing my Edwardian conservatory what should I consider? When designing your conservatory consider the style, materials and colours that will best suit your home. With careful planning you can create your dream conservatory that fits your unique needs and your home.
What Our Surrey Customers Say:
“The new conservatory from Sheerwater Glass really has changed our home. We can use it all year round now. The warm roof is cosy even in January!” – Mrs Marsh, Woking
“This is so much better and warmer than before!” – James, Guildford
“Excellent service from Sheerwater Glass. New conservatory installed, replacing an old one and including building and electrical work. All staff worked well: arrived on time, left everything tidy and communicated at every stage. Project was finished within predicted time window. I would recommend them for glazing related home projects.” – Karen Stainsby – Weybridge
When choosing the materials and frames for your conservatory:
- uPVC for low maintenance and cost effective.
- Timber frames for a classic look but more upkeep.
- Aluminium frames for durability and modern appearance.
- Solid warm roof for extra durability and insulation, a balance between energy efficiency and looks.
Get Started
- Design tips:
- Match frame colours (e.g., Chartwell Green) to your home’s exterior.
- Bi-fold doors for a seamless garden connection. VELUX Roof vents to avoid summer overheating.
- Local installers:
Surrey based installers with FENSA certification and over 50 years experience. Free consultations with Sheerwater Glass.
Guildford, Cobham, Woking or Haslemere, any of these types of conservatories will add value and character to your Surrey home. Book a free design visit today, your dream extension is just a phone call away! Tip: Ask about wiring and plastering services to make it all seamless.
By Jessica Stevens
