Choosing between a conservatory and an extension is more than just planning an addition to your home. It’ll shape your living space to better suit your lifestyle and aesthetic, so you need all conservatory vs extension points to be clear what to pick.
Are you dreaming of a bright, airy room that captures the essence of the outdoors? A conservatory, with its expansive glass panels, immerses you in natural light and connects you seamlessly with your garden, offering a serene retreat regardless of the weather.
On the other hand, an extension provides a sturdy expansion of your home’s footprint, adaptable to any use, from a new kitchen to an extra bedroom, all while maintaining the original style of your property.
This guide will give you a clear answer as to whether to go for a conservatory or an extension. Keep reading to know which one is a better choice.
What is the Main Difference Between a Conservatory and an Extension?
A conservatory is a glass structure attached to a house to give a smooth transition between the indoors and the garden. It is primarily made up of glass walls and a glass roof, which makes it an ideal spot for relaxation or enjoying the sun without leaving the comfort of your home. The abundance of glass allows natural light to flood the space and create a bright, inviting environment.
In contrast, an extension refers to a more conventional addition to your home. Built with solid walls and a roof that matches the existing house, extensions blend with the original structure. They can be customized to serve various functions, such as expanding a kitchen, adding a bedroom, or increasing living room space. Depending on your size and budget specifics, you can go for a double or single storey extension and make your house more usable.
Conservatory vs Extension Cost
The main factor to consider when you’re planning a house upgrade is standard and conservatory extension prices. If we talk about conservatory vs extension cost UK, conservatories are less expensive than extensions due to their simpler construction requirements and the materials used. On average, a basic conservatory can cost anywhere from £5,000 to £30,000. This range depends on the design, materials (such as uPVC, aluminum, or timber), and size.
House extensions London, meanwhile, involve more extensive construction and materials that are typically more costly. A home extension can range from £20,000 to over £70,000, influenced by factors such as the size of the build, the materials used, the need for foundations , and interior finishes. For example, a single-story extension might cost £30,000, while a 2nd storey extension cost UK with premium finishes could exceed this estimate.
Why Consider Building a Conservatory?
Now that we’re done with the basics of extension vs conservatory, let’s list both of these upgrades’ pros and cons so you can quickly decide what to build:
- Pros:
- Provides a bright, sunlit area for relaxation or growing plants.
- Usually less expensive and faster to build compared to a full extension.
- Often does not require extensive planning permission.
- Cons:
- Prone to temperature extremes if not well-insulated.
- Glass or polycarbonate roofs may require frequent cleaning/maintenance.
- Might add less value to a property compared to a proper extension.
Why Consider a House Extension?
- Pros
- Fully integrated living space with better insulation and design flexibility.
- Tends to add value and functionality to your home.
- Can be tailored to match the original structure for a seamless look.
- Cons
- More expensive and time-consuming to construct.
- Typically, it requires more rigorous planning permissions.
- Construction may involve more complex groundwork.
Conservatory Extension Ideas
Once your heart is set on getting a new conservatory, you can design it in many ways. Here are some cool house extension ideas to try if you want a conservatory-style upgrade:
Garden Room Conservatory
A garden room conservatory combines the comfort of a traditional living area with the panoramic views of a classic conservatory. This style is perfect if you want to enjoy the outdoors but prefer the comfort of an indoor setting. The structure features energy-efficient glazing and a solid roof which makes it usable all year round.
Orangery-Style Conservatory
Orangeries offer a more substantial, home-like feel compared to traditional conservatories. Brick walls and lantern-style roofs gel with the architecture of your home and provide a luxurious space that is quieter and more private than glass-heavy designs. They are ideal for those who want an elegant extension that enhances their home’s value and aesthetic appeal.
Sunroom with Bi-Folding Doors
Sunrooms with bi-folding doors is another idea to open up an entire wall to your garden that merges indoor and outdoor spaces. This option is cool if you want a space where you can entertain guests or enjoy an unobstructed view of your outdoor area. The flexibility of bi-folding doors means you can enjoy a closed environment or an open atmosphere depending on your preferences.
Final Thoughts on Conservatory vs Extension
When deciding between a conservatory and an extension, consider their impact on your home’s functionality and aesthetics. Conservatories offer a natural ambiance with glass walls, while extensions increase space. Evaluate each option against your budget, lifestyle needs, and home design preferences to make a choice that aligns with your home improvement goals.
FAQs
Is a conservatory cheaper than an extension?
Yes, generally, a conservatory is cheaper than an extension. The conservatory costs range from about £5,000 to £30,000, depending on size and materials. In contrast, extensions typically start around £20,000 and can exceed £70,000, influenced by the complexity of the design and the materials used.
What are the disadvantages of a conservatory?
Conservatories can suffer from temperature control issues—if not properly insulated, they can become very hot in the summer and cold in the winter. Due to their glass walls, they also offer less privacy and may provide less functional space, which can be a drawback for daily activities. Additionally, some might view them as less permanent than traditional brick-and-mortar extensions.
What makes a conservatory not an extension?
A conservatory differs from an extension in design and material use. Conservatories have over 50% of their walls and 75% of their roofs made of translucent materials, such as glass, which makes them lighter and more garden-oriented spaces. Extensions, on the other hand, are constructed from materials that match the existing building, with solid roofs and walls that match the rest of the home.
Does a conservatory devalue a house?
Not necessarily; a well-designed and high-quality conservatory can add value to a property by increasing its living space and appeal. However, a poorly built conservatory that suffers from issues like poor thermal efficiency or doesn’t complement the style of the house might not add value and could even deter potential buyers.
