Decorating A Conservatory

We are delighted to have a guest blog post from Liberty-Belle Howard.

A conservatory is an addition to a home that is constructed largely of glass to allow sunlight to pervade the room, visually drawing the outdoors to the inside of the home. Historically, the conservatory was conceived and constructed for English aristocracy. Today, conservatories have become so popular that they are designed into the architecture of many new homes.

Whether a small conservatory is desired to accommodate family and a few friends, or a larger room is planned for extensive entertaining, it is the intent of the builders to design the structure so that it blends seamlessly with the rest of the house. Upon completion, it is left to the homeowner to decide how to decorate the conservatory. Even if a professional decorator is hired, there are decisions to be made.

In choosing furniture to fill the space, care should be taken that colours and fabrics will not be affected by all that lovely sunlight. Window coverings such as conservatory blinds, that will offer complete privacy when needed, should be considered. A variety of plants that will do well with an abundance of natural light, in a room that will be kept cool and comfortable will need to be selected.

Beautiful furniture that is made especially for conservatories is available in a variety of styles. Fabrics and finishes that will not fade in excessive light should be chosen. Lighter shades of colour are clean and airy and compliment the spacious feeling of a conservatory, and are least likely to show the effects of fading.

An excellent choice of conservatory furniture is also the kind of furniture that is durable enough to be used outdoors. Patio and garden furniture are manufactured in diverse materials, styles and colours, and can withstand weeks and months of constant exposure to elements of weather such as sunlight, rain and moderate temperature changes.

Wicker, cane and bamboo furniture are not only comfortable, they are durable and will enhance the décor of any area in the home. Metal outdoor furniture of cast aluminium, iron and steel are fashioned in gorgeous designs that will bring out pride of ownership for the homeowner.

Teak is another type of outdoor furniture that may be desirable in a conservatory. Teak furniture is stylish, comfortable and durable, but will need to be oiled periodically to keep the wood in good condition.

Conservatory blinds are specially treated window treatments to keep heat outside in summer, to keep heat inside in winter, to cut down on glare and to provide privacy. Some of these blinds are designed only for those sections of the roof that are glass, and are capable of blocking out a majority of overhead light if needed.

Common styles of conservatory blinds are pleated, Venetian and roller blinds. The lighter shades of colour of the side window blinds may be chosen to compliment the colours found in the furniture.

Conservatories bring the outdoors inside to be enjoyed in comfort year round. Good planning and design will make the most of the experience.