The Timeless Appeal of the Victorian Conservatory

Conservatories have been a staple in British homes for centuries, dating back as far as the 16th century.

Originally designed as glass houses that protect exotic plants during harsh winters, conservatories have developed into a popular way to extend your home and gain an additional functional living space. Today, the Victorian conservatory remains one of the most iconic and desirable styles.

What is a Victorian Conservatory?

What sets Victorian conservatories apart from more contemporary designs is their intricate, ornate details. They can be recognised by their rounded faceted bay fronts, decorative ridges and finials, and pitched glazed roofs.

Victorian Conservatories vs Modern Conservatories

Where Victorian Conservatories Come From

The Victorian conservatory was popularised during the 19^th century – unsurprisingly, during the Victorian era. Designed to complement homes of the era featuring red brickwork, tall windows and decorative barge boards, these conservatories were, and still are, grand and elegant symbols of timeless architecture.

Why Victorian Conservatories Remain Popular Today

They Offer Enduring Historic Charm

Victorian conservatories remain a leading choice among homeowners due to their historic charm. They are particularly attractive to homeowners with period properties. Built with solid brickwork, stone, and cast iron, these designs offer more than striking aesthetics; they boast durability and longevity.

They Flood Your Home With Natural Light

Thanks to extensive glazing, Victorian style conservatories fill your home with natural light year-round. Modern glazing technology ensures consistent temperatures and better energy efficiency compared to historical versions.

A Room For Every Purpose

Conservatories are popular for their versatility. Depending on the homeowner’s personal preferences, conservatories can be the solution to a multitude of unfulfilled needs. They can provide additional dining spaces, expand comfortable living areas, or create a brand-new space. Those who work from home may opt for an inspiring new office space or even nod to the conservatory’s historic roots, when they housed ample greenery and citrus trees.

Adding Value to Your Property

Common conservatory designs sporting uPVC frames do not add value to your home, as they are often poorly maintained and cheaply built. However, when constructed using quality materials such as solid masonry and high-performance double glazing, well-built home extensions can add significant value to your property as they are more desirable to future buyers.

Designing a Victorian-Style Conservatory for Your Home

Picking The Right Materials

In classic versions of Victorian conservatories, redwood (in particular, Western Red Cedar) was a popular timber choice, but has since been out-performed. A modern, efficient alternative is Accoya® wood.

Modern Engineering and Glazing Options

Old-fashioned Victorian conservatories pre-date modern day glazing technology and were subsequently poorly insulated and uncomfortable during the colder months. Early iterations of double glazing were rare and available only to the very wealthy. Fortunately, poor thermal regulation in conservatories is becoming a problem of the past, as double glazing is standard on all new builds in the UK.

Colours and Finishes

Victorian design is most recognisable in association with rich, dark colours. Deep browns, maroons and green shades complement the aesthetic. Westbury shades that work well with these are Westbury Bronze, Westbury Grey and Roman Bronze.

For those looking to decorate more traditionally, opting for neutral shades will offset the darker palette and create a brighter effect. Popular shades such as Westbury White or Birch add interest and contrast, while still working well with Victorian interior design and enhancing the look of a Victorian conservatory.

Creating a Bridge Between Home and Garden

Conservatories should act as bridges connecting the comfort of your home to the natural beauty outside. Taller glazing that is closer to ceiling height and lower to the floor maximises this effect, as no dwarf walls can cut off the views of low-growing shrubs or plant beds.

Planning Permission and Consents

Conservatories can be exempt from the need for formal planning permission if the proposed building work meets specific criteria.

In order to be exempt, conservatories must:

• Not exceed 4m outward from the original rear wall of the property. For semi-detached or terraced houses, this is limited to 3m
• Not exceed 4m in height from ground level
• Not exceed 50% of the curtilage – this is what the council accepts to be the area of land immediately surrounding the property

In basic terms, if the above rules are followed, permitted development rights allow you to integrate a conservatory onto your property without applying for planning consent. However, it is always wise to get a professional’s expert advice, as you may live in an area with increased protections such as a National Landscape (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), a Green-Belt or you live in a listed building.

If planning permission is required, then Westbury can alleviate any stress by handling the process for you. We can liaise with consultants on your behalf and have experience in:

• Application submissions
• Building regulations compliance
• SAP Assessments
• Structural calculations

Heritage Properties

If you’re the owner of a Victorian-era property, your home may be a graded building. Graded buildings are more complex when it comes to planning permission, as regulations are in place to protect the historic aesthetic of the property and prevent inappropriate alterations. Listed building consent is required on top of standard planning permissions, and this will be reviewed by the local planning authority.

Meeting Modern Standards Without Losing Historic Charm

Victorian conservatories and homes of the 19^th century were prone to thermal regulation issues and damp due to their reliance on fireplaces for heating. Fortunately, two modern advancements negate these worries entirely.

• Underfloor heating – Warm water is carried from the boiler or a water pump to pipes beneath the floorboards. This warms the conservatory by allowing heat to travel upwards and evenly distribute throughout the room.
• Electric roof vents – This is a ventilation system that consists of a built-in casement window integrated into the glazed roof to improve airflow. These can be connected to thermostats and rain sensors, or a simple rocker switch that allows for manual opening and closing of the vent.

Styling and Furnishing Your Victorian Conservatory

Victorian décor is opulent in every sense of the word. Consisting of an excess of ornaments, regal metals and intricate design, this interior style is vintage maximalism.

Opt for stand-out patterned wallpapers in bold hues, heavy drapes and strategic ornamental décor. Golden chandeliers, decorative frames and mirrors hung above ornate fireplaces complete the look and enhance authentic Victorian interior design inside your Victorian conservatory.

Is a Victorian Conservatory Right For You?

For lovers of traditional design, choosing a Victorian conservatory is often a simple decision. For those with period homes, existing ornate features, or a desire to add character, Victorian-style conservatories are always an appealing option.

However, it is important to keep in mind that any new extension, no matter the style, will appear far more updated to existing period properties. It’s essential to speak with your designer about how to integrate a home extension into your home in the most respectful and seamless way possible, or explore your options to decide which look is right for you and your property.

Homeowners seeking a more refined, simple or modern look may prefer modern conservatories, Edwardian conservatories, or a garden room or orangery instead.

For a design consultation and further personalised advice, call our design team today on 01245 326500.