Creating a Glass Room at Home: Light, Space and Year-Round Comfort

It’s quite magical to sit in a room flooded with light, surrounded by glass, and watch the elements batter the outdoor world beyond. Nothing pulls a British garden closer like a glass room. And with the wonderful addition of natural light to a home, you’re provided yet another space to unwind and relax, regardless of the time of year.

What Makes a Glass Room Different?

A glass room is an Architectural design with an extremely slim framework and large sheets of glass. The walls are usually constructed of sliding or folding glass panels, which means that the entire wall of the room can be removed to allow for the largest opening available. Usually the roof is also glazed.

A glass room creates a contemporary aesthetic. Traditionally, conservatories create a feeling of a separate room constructed with heavy, thick frames and small, “dwarf” walls. A glass room gives uninterrupted, exquisite views and best enjoyed with the maximum amount of natural light.

Enjoying Your Garden for Longer

British gardens are difficult to use for much of the year. The Glass Room provides shelter from wind and rain and allows you to take in the view. On a crisp winter’s morning, you can snuggle up with a hot drink and enjoy the garden as it wakes up. In the summer, you can enjoy the same view with the doors fully opened and a cool breeze.

Many people find that a glass room becomes the heart of the home. Families gather here for meals, and guests are entertained here. Most importantly, it is the perfect spot to curl up with a book, or the Sunday paper and enjoy the garden view.

Controlling Light, Heat and Privacy

There’s a lot of glass, so we’ve had to consider the effects of the sun. Options for controlling the sun and heat during the summer months, as well as retaining heat during the winter, include the use of awnings and external blinds, and the use of specialist glazing.

There are a number of other elements to consider. Blinds, planting and screens can help give you additional privacy if neighbours look into your garden. They can also soften the view and create a more relaxing space.

Heating and Lighting

Consider different heating options for use of the glass room on cooler evenings. Various underfloor heating, wall mounted heaters, and radiant systems are options for use in a glass room. The choice depends on how you intend to use the space and the amount of time you are willing to spend in the space during the winter.

What a difference lighting can make after dark! Integrated spotlights and lamps can create a calm and comfortable setting. If a light has dimmable features, you can control the intensity for various situations like reading or entertaining.

Choosing the Right Design

Your lifestyle and your home are unique, which is why we design glass rooms uniquely for you. Consider the scale of the room, how it will connect to your house and which direction it will face. A south facing room gets a lot of sun, while a north facing room doesn’t get as much and may need other means for warmth.

You will also need to consider the extent to which you want to open up the space. The use of sliding glass doors gives the option of opening up a space, whereas a wall of fixed glass may suit a space that is used predominantly as a quiet room.

Planning and Building Regulations

Check if planning permission or building regulations apply before starting a project. Many glass rooms can be constructed as permitted developments, but this will depend on factors such as size, height and the location of your property. A reliable installer can help explain this and also assist you with your applications if necessary.

It’s important to examine the ground and the house wall where the new room will attach. Good foundations and careful building procedures are essential for long term performance.

Keeping It Looking Good

Maintenance is not difficult but should be done on a consistent basis. Clean the glass for a good view and wipe down the frames with a mild cleaner. Also check the seals and drainage channels (particularly after heavy rain/fall), and clear any blockages you may find.

Sliding door tracks can easily collect dirt and debris, making them difficult to slide. Cleaning out the tracks a few times a year helps keep the door moving smoothly.

A Room You Will Use All Year

A beautiful glass room extension can provide extra space to relax and enjoy your garden, all year round. Our glass rooms are designed to provide a natural light space that enhances both your home and your lifestyle.

Consider how you will use your new system, and visit showrooms if you can. Speak to the experienced specialists. They will answer your questions, and possibly even help you design a layout and choose components. Plus, if you plan thoroughly, your new room will quickly become your favourite part of the house!