9 tips for making the most of a conservatory

We love conservatories – and so does the population at large.
In 2013, nearly one in five houses had conservatories. And according to some sources, their popularity is on the up and up.
But as the flames of love burn bright, so the fire extinguisher of real life squirts powerful jets on our dreams.
When you've got work and bills and more bills to think about, it's all too easy to let that dream conservatory become a little, well, neglected.
There are many reasons why your conservatory might lose its lustre. Perhaps family circumstances have changed. Perhaps budget constrictions came into play. Maybe you just don't have time to keep it looking shiny and inviting.

But it doesn't take much to make your conservatory as good as new again. With a few well-placed furnishings or a little investment, that sunroom could become your favourite room in the house.
Read on for our top tips on reimagining and redesigning your conservatory. It's time to fall back in love…

Quick fixes

1. Transform it into a calming space for "me time"


Picture this: a space that's all about you. A space that can whisk you away from the chaos of the world and into a realm of relaxation.

It doesn't have to cost the earth – small additions can really transform a conservatory. Think scented candles, mood lighting, cosy cushions and blankets.
So, treat yourself to some tempting snack jars, banish those pesky screens and settle into some "me time". Whether you want a spa vibe, a meditation zone or just a cosy spot to read a book, get that imagination flowing and create a space that works for you.

2. Create a dedicated games zone

Why not give your conservatory a seriously fun makeover? Say hello to your future games room!
Maybe you want somewhere for the kids to play or just want to settle down with your newest game console? A dedicated gaming zone is a luxury – but if you've got an unloved conservatory, it could present the perfect opportunity to treat yourself.
You could go retro, with neon lights, tabletop games and an arcade feel. Table football anyone? Air hockey? Fruit machines? Or maybe you'd prefer a sleek and minimal space to focus on your digital games?
In any case, a dedicated games room can help calm the chaos of a fun-hungry household. Sick of tripping over wires and controllers? Or treading on Lego? Consolidate all your games-related paraphernalia into one place. Game on! 

3. Bring outside inside with a garden room

Imagine stepping into a lush oasis in your own home. A natural wonderland, where you can surround yourself with potted plants and hanging baskets – and perhaps even fruit trees or veggies.

A garden room lets you soak up all the goodness a garden provides, even if the weather's bad.  Natural light pouring in through the glass will make your plants thrive and create a bright, uplifting space in which to potter and unwind.
And unwind you will. Having greenery in the house is known to be good for wellbeing, as well as looking gorgeous. 
You could even have an indoor water feature and relax to the sound of a trickling stream. Ahh…

4. Disco room! (Yes, seriously)

Why not go full Ibiza club vibes and transform your tired conservatory into a laser-lit club dance floor?
Invite friends over, turn on those lights, plug in the speaker and just let your hair down. Boogie, baby!
At home, it's easy to get distracted by chores and the realities of life. But everyone needs to let loose sometimes – and your unused conservatory could make the perfect entertainment centre for your home. 

5. Get some blinds or curtains

This one sounds so simple. But it's amazing how many people limit their options when it comes to blinds and curtains in conservatories.
It can be lovely to have a bit of privacy when you want it – and getting window coverings fitted is the obvious first fix.
Are you creating a cosy Zen den? A clean office space? Either way, blinds and curtains can go a long way to transforming your conservatory from stark to welcoming. 

Bigger fixes

The above suggestions are all well and good if your conservatory is in good shape. But let's suppose your problems are more than skin deep. Maybe your conservatory was fitted years ago – or you avoid it at certain times of the year due to the temperature.
Whatever the issue, there are various options for upgrading your conservatory and here at Calder Windows, we've got you covered. We outline some of the best options below. 

6. Replace the glass

Are you not using your conservatory because it's a bit old or cold? Replacing the glass can be a great way to give your conservatory a facelift, as well as improve insulation.

Glazing technology has come a long way in recent years. New double or triple glazing will look great and cut your energy costs. Win-win! 

7. Replace the roof

Give your conservatory a new lease of life with a smart-looking, insulating roof.
Here at Calder Windows, we offer Supalite roofs . These manage temperature fluctuations, look great and can last for decades.

8. Make it open-plan 

Have you soured on your sunroom because it feels cramped or too separate from the rest of the house? Why not go open-plan?
Sometimes a simple solution can really change the feel of a conservatory – and opening up the space is sure to renew your enthusiasm. 
Best of all, it's not just your conservatory that benefits. Going open-plan can create more space and allow more sunlight to enter your home.
Bi-fold doors can give you the flexibility to open and close off your conservatory as you wish. So, take a look at our range of bi-folds and start getting inspired.

9. Replace it with an orangery

Maybe it's time for a proper change. Perhaps you're ready to swap that conservatory for something that feels a little more like home.