Jul 18 2010
People Who Live in Glass Conservatories
By the time that the window tax was introduced in 1696, conservatories were widely in use by the owners of large houses to grow plants for the house and early seasonal fruits. With the window tax charging extra for houses with more than 10 or 20 windows, some owners even went out of their way to flaunt their wealth by building lavish conservatories or orangeries which were used to grow citrus fruit.
In the period following the 1950s, conservatories developed a bit of a bad reputation. Poorly designed and often made with inferior materials, the conservatory became synonymous with leaks and constant repair bills.
Nowadays the conservatory is again riding high. Modern glass making techniques allow glass to be used that helps to keep the conservatory warm in winter whilst moderating the summer heat. Building techniques allow the glass to be joined without leaks or wind whistling through joints, as well as seamlessly integrating the conservatory into the home. Add in underfloor heating and modern electric blinds and the conservatory has turned from being a leaky money drain into one of the most desired spaces in the home.
So, what should you consider when thinking of building a conservatory? Start by looking not only at your house but also at your garden. If you are going to add a conservatory to your home then consider giving it folding sliding doors that lead on to a decking or patio in your garden. In the summer you can leave the doors open and extend your home even further into the garden area.
Next think about how you are going to use your conservatory. If you are going for a traditional feel and growing plants in your conservatory, or if it is likely to be used as a children’s play area, consider installing a small tap and sink. For a more relaxed feel, look carefully at the colour scheme and choose colours that blend the conservatory into the garden.
To enhance this feeling of relaxation, consider your garden planting as well. For example, if you are considering a soft purple or blue floor covering then plant a bed of purple geraniums or lavender outside. Open the doors or windows and the lavender smell would waft in, aiding the feeling of relaxation.
Maybe it’s time to forget the old saying that people who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones. How about, people who live in conservatories are very blessed.