Thursday, March 29, 2012

Basic Architectural Features of a Conservatory

Adding a conservatory is one of the best ways to bring an aesthetic appearance to your home. You can use a conservatory as a garden house, playroom, living room, or even as a kitchen. However, basically it is a residential solarium or greenhouse intended for growing plants.

Whatever the purpose may be, the structure includes certain basic architectural features. A conservatory is a room that is mostly attached to a house. It is built with glass walls and a glass roof. The glass features are the specific architectural elements of a conservatory. Usually large glass panels are used that are often clear instead of frosted. The glass roof includes superior insulating properties for both cold and hot climates. A conservatory more often has special glazing features having insulated glass units that provide proper insulation, visible light and solar control. However, these days, even other materials like aluminum, PVCu and wood are also being used for constructing the roof and walls of a conservatory. Most of the homeowners prefer to choose plastic that also lets sunlight in.

The other common elements of a conservatory includes the presence of plants. Greenery is the ideal and elegant part of your conservatory. You can plant smaller and colorful flowering herbs or shrubs. They not only make the environment healthy but also bring a pleasing look to your extensions.

The design and style of a conservatory reflects the appearance of your home. A conservatory can be constructed in different styles and designs. A lean-to conservatory is a traditional style of conservatory that leans on one or two walls of your home. An Edwardian conservatory is mostly rectangular or square shaped having an elegant, simple and creative design providing more living space. Some other popular designs of conservatories include gable-ended style, P-shaped, L-shaped, T-shaped and so on. Build a conservatory that is apt for your home structure and enjoy the outdoor living area.

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