An Overview of Different Conservatory Layout Options
The largely modular construction of conservatories means that the size and shape of your conservatory can be tailored to pretty much any space or budget.
Your conservatory can be created to suit the area available (subject to constraints imposed by planning permission or building regulations) and while the layout and configuration of your new conservatory is practically limitless there are a number of more commonplace configurations.
When considering the proposed size and layout of your conservatory it is essential to consider not only any applicable planning or building regulations but what you will be using the finished space for – certain types of room need to be of certain minimum sizes in order to be truly usable.
Is it also worth considering that you will need to heat and maintain whatever space you decide on, so opting for something bigger than you need may not only be slightly more expensive initially, but on an ongoing basis.
Lean-to Conservatory
The most basic of conservatories is the Lean To, also known as a Mediterranean, Home Extender, Sun Room or Sun Lounge. Utilising at least one external wall of your property as one or more facets of your lean-to means minimal materials and construction are required. Depending on the external profile of the wall you wish to attach your conservatory to it may be possible to create a useful space with as little as a single straight conservatory wall section and a roof.
The only real configuration options for a lean-to are the length and depth of the conservatory and the pitch of the roof and these variables will normally be determined by the property you are extending and the space available more than anything else. There is some choice in terms of the style of lean-to conservatories although their simplicity inherently limits the amount of structural customisation and design.
Construction can be uPVC, Hardwood or Aluminium.
A lean-to may be built on a small ‘dwarf wall’ if required, though this would increase the complexity and also the cost of the project if cost were a major factor.
P Shape Conservatory
The P-shaped design of conservatory allows you to effectively create more than one zone or area within your new space, helping you to get the best out of your investment. Utilising the p-shape design would allow you to create, for example, a separate kitchen and dining area, or a dining area and lounge area.
The length and depth of both the main section and the P section can be tailored to suit the space available and to create two distinct areas of the size that you require. P-shape conservatories are available in a range of styles and the protruding part of the shape may be of Victorian, Edwardian or Gable-ended appearance or even a combination.
Construction can be uPVC, Hardwood or Aluminium and a range of finishes are available.
A P-shaped conservatory may be simply frame and glazing from the ground up, or may be built upon a small ‘dwarf wall’ if desired to enhance its appearance and assist in blending it in with the existing property. A p-shaped conservatory could be a stand-alone structure but is most commonly affixed to one or more external walls of your property.
T Shape Conservatory
The T shape design of conservatory can essentially be viewed as a slightly modified P-shape in that the area protruding from the rectangular main section is closer to the centre rather than one of the ends as its name suggests – aside from this there is little difference between the two.
As with the P-shaped design, the length and depth of the main section and the protruding section can be varied to suit internal or external space demands or constraints.
T-shape conservatories are available in a range of styles and may be of Victorian, Edwardian and Gable-ended appearance or even a combination.
Construction can be uPVC, Hardwood or Aluminium and a range of finishes are available.
A T-shaped conservatory may be simply frame and glazing from the ground up, or may be built upon a small ‘dwarf wall’ if desired to enhance its appearance and assist in blending it in with the existing property. A T-shaped conservatory could be a stand-alone structure but is most commonly affixed to one or more external walls of your property.
Gable Front Conservatory
A gable-front, or gable-fronted conservatory offers arguably the most airy and space-efficient layout as it is square or rectangular in shape and the ridge of the pitched roof runs right to the front of the structure – resulting in a profile that is not unlike that of a traditional standalone garden greenhouse.
A gable-front conservatory may appear slightly more contemporary than Victorian or Edwardian styles of conservatory and may appear slightly less imposing – it may also better suit more modern properties as a result.
Construction can be uPVC, Hardwood or Aluminium and a range of finishes are available.
A gable front conservatory may be simply frame and glazing from the ground up, or may be built upon a small ‘dwarf wall’ if desired to enhance its appearance and assist in blending it in with the existing property. A gable fronted conservatory could be a stand-alone structure but is most commonly affixed to one or more external walls of your property.
B shape conservatory
The B shape conservatory is effectively a ‘double P-shape’ with the main rectangular section having two separate protruding sections to the front aspect. There is no other discernible difference and the information above relating to P shape conservatories also applies to B shape conservatories.
Custom Shape Conservatories
It is possible to have truly unique structures designed and created and the possibilities are limited only by space, imagination, planning constraints and budget. The result may be a hybrid comprising features of some other types and layouts of conservatory or it may be a completely free-form development – a one-of-a-kind creation made from any number of interesting materials from ornate conservatories fashioned from timber and hardwoods to minimalist stainless steel, aluminium or glass creations.
Choosing a conservatory – next steps
After having perused our comprehensive conservatories section, it is likely that you will want to start evaluating conservatory prices and the various styles available so you can make a more considered decision.
The best way to get started is to select around 3 different FENSA registered specialists and arrange for them to come to your home and show you the range available, and advise you on how best to make use of the space in which you are planning to erect your conservatory – they may be able to offer size or layout options that you hadn’t even considered as well as specific conservatory planning permission or building regs information relevant to your particular project.
Conservatory Quotes
One of the more established names, Anglian, have been making and installing high-quality products since 1966 and offer a 10 year warranty on all uPVC products and a 15 year warranty on gas-filled sealed glazing units for peace of mind with your new conservatory. Click to receive a free Anglian Quote.