Best Additions to Your Home

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Posted: December 4, 2014

Best Additions to Your Home

Have you recently moved to a new home? How do you feel about it? Are you satisfied with how everything looks like? How do DIY conservatories appeal to you?

You can’t everything you want in a snap even how careful you were in choosing your new home. Contemplating of having additions is just normal but things like that should be taken seriously especially because it means expenditure.

It may take years before you finally get the opportunity of improving what you have so be sure about the addition that you want to have. Below are some of the most popular ones:

1. Japanese gardens

If you are into horticulture, you would most likely love to have a Japanese garden, even a small one. Japanese gardens symbolize serenity and balance in life and nature.

But if you have a lot of kids, you might not want to have deep water features and sands. Instead go for greeneries.

2. Garden benches

For those who are tight in their budget, adding garden benches are enough as additions. Reading books, doing some embroidery, or simply breathing fresh air would be great if you have benches around your house.

Have them installed where there is less exposure to the sun to maximise its use.

3. Conservatories

But if you want to see a bigger change, conservatories are the best. They can be a place for relaxation, for entertaining guests, or just part of your house’s expansion.

These days, conservatories are beyond the all-glass-structure. You can decide how you would like your conservatory to look like.

Get quotations from builders and suppliers in your area. Check what kind of addition you are able to finance without losing control or being overwhelmed with your finances. See if you can greatly benefit from that new addition. A DIY conservatory for example can increase the market value of your property if you want to sell it the future. And remember to stay focused on what you need than what the trend is.

Posted in DIY Conservatories

Beauty in Conservatory How to Get Yours

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Posted: December 3, 2014

Beauty in Conservatory: How to Get Yours

Each of us has a creative side. Some people have discovered it first ahead of others, and were brave enough to show it. Some are holding it within themselves; afraid to let the world know and be underrated. But whenever the latter is exposed to beauty or form of art, it is easy for them to appreciate what’s before them. This is the reason why almost all can tell whether a self build conservatory looks good or not. The same thing goes with dry Japanese gardens, Zen landscapes, and the likes.

It is very easy for someone to get fascinated by how attractive structures are built.  But sometimes it is hard to identify what components make up one’s preference for a structure, especially for those who do not have any artistic or architectural background.

As we focus on how we feel in a particular setting we can slowly realize what we are looking for in the aspect of beauty. Our lifestyle can be a factor with the difference of our taste compared to others, but that does not necessarily mean they won’t like our preference.

Once you have figured out the components that make you feel good about a certain structure, incorporate what you find with the plans you have for your conservatory. Examples of components are:

• Materials – wood, metal, or some kind of plastic?
• Details – elaborate or plain?
• Color – earth colors, fancy colors, or material’s natural color?

And the most important thing of all when it comes to constructing a self build conservatory is to not to be in haste.  Once you rush things, you may not get satisfied with your project. The structure may turn out to be according to what you want it to be, but you are drained financially. Remember, time is an important component to achieve beauty.

 

Posted in DIY Conservatories

5 Common DIY Conservatory Construction Mistakes

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Posted: December 2, 2014

It is common to make mistakes. But making a big mistake that may cost you a lot of money is another thing. Just like making a wrong decision in constructing DIY conservatories at home, it could be financial suicide. So if you are planning to have a conservatory constructed for your home, you better take note of these common mistakes to avoid repeating them.

Mistake #1

Underestimating the cost of the project

While DIY conservatories can be a lot cheaper compared to having them built by big contractors, it is still not a great idea to underestimate the possible cost of the construction. Sure you can save on labor expenses when you do it yourself but the materials will all be bought. The best way to do it is so ask your supplier for an estimated cost. It is better to overestimate than underestimated when it comes to cost. You don’t want to delay your construction. It may lead to even bigger expense.

Mistake #2

Choosing the wrong style for your conservatory

Another common mistake is choosing the wrong style for your conservatory. There are many designs to choose from and each design can be specific for your need, available space or even budget. Determine the space you will allocate for the conservatory, your preference as well as your budget allotment and ask your contractor for the best conservatory design/style perfect for you.

Mistake #3

Choosing an improper location for your conservatory

Every homeowner should know where to erect a conservatory. Usually, conservatories are built at the rear end on of the house. Choose a place that is cool throughout the day. Never position your conservatory in a place hit by direct sunlight for a long period of time. It would be totally non-functional during the summer.

Mistake #4

Making use of conservatories during winter alone

Conservatories are especially made for the winter season but it doesn’t mean that it can be totally useless during the summer or spring. While a conservatory could offer comfort during the winter months, it could also be cozy during spring with a good view of your blooming garden. Summer months can get so hot but employing your creativity will transform your conservatory into a family recreation room, a playhouse for the kids or a gymnasium where the family can stay fit without needing to spend time and money on gym memberships.

Mistake #5

Downplaying the value added to your property by conservatories

DIY conservatories add value to your property. So when you are planning to sell your home in the future, do not hesitate to price it higher. A conservatory is definitely a plus when it comes to property appraisal. It is an easy and affordable way of adding value to your property.

Posted in DIY Conservatories

3 Tips on Building a Conservatory for the First Time

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Posted: December 1, 2014

You don’t need to be into construction to build your own conservatory smoothly. A lot of homeowners with zero-knowledge on carpentry have even opted for DIY conservatories, with minimal help from servicing companies. And they did it! With the right resources, you too can do it. Check out these tips:

1. You may not need to do paper works

Doing paper works seeking building permits and the likes can be overwhelming for a first timer; not to mention you have to juggle such with your working hours. But if you are not building a large conservatory, you may not need to seek a building permit anymore. Check the governing rules in your area to help you decide how much area you want to cover.

 2. Selecting a professional builder

There are many professional builders which can help you plan and carry out inexpensive conservatory project. When you are a looking for a candidate for the project, see to it that they are approved by Trading Standards, this way you can ensure that the services they will render as well as the materials that will be used are of high quality.

 3. Don’t hesitate to customize 

Going for a self build conservatory is a great advantage for you if you are inclined to your creative side. It’s a big project which you can customize. You can decide how big it is, what paint colours to use, design to follow, and so on. Your new home would feel more ‘yours’ if you customize it. Customization also works even when you are working with professional builders. Don’t hesitate; go for it.

As you go along, you will discover more ways on making this project more valuable as you put in more ideas, and work with people who are willing to extend a hand.

Posted in DIY Conservatories

3 Styles for DIY Conservatories

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Posted: November 30, 2014

One advantage of getting DIY conservatory for your home is the aesthetic value that it will add to your property. Just like designing your own room, DIY conservatories can also offer you the freedom to choose the design and styles that you prefer. Among the many designs that you can choose from, here are the top 3 styles we have outlined below:

1. Victorian Style Conservatory

The Victorian design is the most classic and elegant design that you can get. It only requires a small space for construction. When you have a small space in your backyard, this design is the best option. This design is also ideal when you want to preserve the beauty of your garden for instance. A small structure such as the Victorian conservatory will not overpower your garden. It is also ideal for small corners that you want to be useful. Add in a Victorian conservatory and you get your goal.

2. Edwardian or Georgian Style Conservatory

While the Victorian can be very functional for small spaces, the Edwardian style on the other hand maximizes room space for several functions. It can be a playroom for the children, a kitchen or a mini gymnasium for your home. It is as elegant and airy as the Victorian style. Its defining characteristic is its square shape and large space. If you have a bigger budget and space, opt for Edwardian style conservatories.

3. Lean To Conservatories

If you are looking for a very versatile and flexible type of style, lean to conservatory is the answer to your needs. It doesn’t limit your space requirements; it can be spacious or it can be space-saving. The only difference it has from the Edwardian style is its roof. The lean to conservatory style can go around corners, can be L-shaped or go along the house’s rear. It is an effective style to make use of oddly-shaped spaces at home.

Posted in DIY Conservatories

3 Myths about DIY Conservatories

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Posted: November 29, 2014

While a lot of households in the UK already have DIY conservatories built, many are still quite hesitant to have a go for it. Despite the priceless benefits conservatories offer just like added property value, convenience and functionality, and aesthetic appeal, people still choose to entertain several myths about DIY conservatories and believe them. Below is a list of such myths: 

1. DIY Conservatories are expensive.

In fact, conservatories can be very expensive when you hire the wrong contractor for the project. However, there are ways around spending too much on conservatories. You can opt for self build conservatories. Yes, you can build a conservatory by yourself. DIY conservatories come with a complete manual that even people with zero knowledge of carpentry and construction can do it by simply following the instructions. If you happen to buy from a company that offers assembly help, that would be a lot better. It’s true that conservatories can be expensive, but if you can be creative, it won’t be a problem.

2. Conservatories are useless in the summer.

It is true that a lot of people intend to use conservatories during the winter but it’s actually just a myth that it can be totally useless in the summer. A conservatory at home can be very functional whole year round if you just know how to make use of it. It can be unbearably hot in the summer but adding plants can cool the area. Upon construction, make sure that you install big windows for a more airy feel. During summer, you can have family dinners in your conservatory or transform it into a gymnasium or recreation area.

3. Building a conservatory is an unwise use of space.

Space usage depends on the type of conservatory that you are going to get. Consult your contractor about the available space that you are willing to be used for the conservatory. He will then suggest a style that will maximize the use of available space. Conservatories can be used as a play area for children where they can be safe and just within the premises of your home, can be used as an outdoor kitchen or a functional dining space for the whole family.

 

Posted in DIY Conservatories

The Sky is not the Limit

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Posted: May 22, 2011

We were recently discussing the places where you could put a conservatory and New York city was mentioned.  With numerous skyscrapers and high rise condos the sky is literally the limit.  Then we stumbled upon this:

(more…)

Posted in Conservatory News DIY Conservatories

Home Improvements Unleashed

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Posted: May 18, 2011

Are home improvements addictive? I would say so. It’s not enough to change the color of the walls or the curtains and blinds. There are so many new types of flooring, furnishing and fabrics to experiment with. (more…)

Posted in Conservatory News

Royal wedding spring clean

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Posted: May 18, 2011

Springtime saw us literally spring cleaning our homes in time for the celebrations of the the Royal wedding.

“However, the idea of playing host to a number of guests could be intimidating to some householders who are worried about the state of their interior design. (more…)

Posted in Conservatory News General

Beautiful Blinds for Conservatories

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Posted: May 18, 2011

An excellent way to transform a conservatory whilst reflecting the heat and light from the sun. And with new modern fabrics it’s also ideal for the winter as it helps to keep the conservatory warm. Sound like the ideal solution? Here is an extract from the article: (more…)

Posted in Conservatory Blinds DIY Conservatories

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