Glass Rooms vs. Conservatories: What’s the Difference?

Pros

• Comparatively low cost.
• Double glazing provides higher insulation U-values.
• Can be used nearly all year round.

Cons

• Framed windows and wall components can restrict views.
• Design limitations – usually restricted to predetermined shapes and sizes.
• Can sometimes look dated.

Glass Rooms

Serving a similar function as a sunroom, the main difference between a conservatory and a glass room (like a Weinor Glasoase glass room) is the ratio of glass to other elements. A glass room will be transparent from floor to ceiling, with the walls, doors and roof all made from glass.

The supporting framework is the only opaque part and this is minimal, with glazed elements which are significantly larger than the windows in a conservatory.

Pros

• Uninterrupted views of the garden.
• Unique contemporary style.
• Made to measure, for more flexibility with design.
• Combine tilting and sliding walls and doors for an adaptable living space.

Cons

• A bigger initial investment.
• Uninsulated. You may want to install halogen heaters to make the space usable outside of summer.

ORANGERIES, GARDEN ROOMS AND LOGGIAS

Modern day glass rooms and conservatories have been inspired by these historic status symbols. The orangery became popular in Europe during the 17th century, when they were used to keep exotic fruit trees warm all year round. They were often standalone features, situated within the grounds of stately homes, country estates and castles. The trend for glass roofs began in the early 19th century.Garden rooms originated at the same time, but were used for more general all-purpose tasks such as doing the laundry, storing ice and growing shrubs.

The definition of garden rooms and sunrooms vary nowadays, particularly with the introduction of glass extensions and glass verandas. They can be anything from conservatories to brick extensions with tiled roofs and large windows, or even standalone timber constructions. Loggias were an architectural feature invented by the Romans. They were open areas, decorated with arches or columns and only accessible from the interior of a building. Usually found on the second floor or higher, they were a kind of large balcony with a roof for shelter. Nowadays, some conservatories take loose inspiration from the traditional loggia design.