T-shaped Conservatories

Constructing a lofty conservatory on the back of a low-eaved bungalow proved far from straightforward, but Stephen and Eva Morris were determined to create their dream addition. “We had been thinking about doing this for about five years, but it looked like it would be too difficult a project to manage.”

Fitting a tall conservatory onto a low-eaved bungalow required expert design and a bit of lateral thinking. The result – an airy Victorian conservatory with a roof that Stephen estimates is more than 12ft tall – is exactly what the couple wanted, without compromising the look of the bungalow. “I just love it,” says Eva.

It’s an unusual conservatory that draws interest whenever the couple have visitors, but at the outset having it designed wasn’t as straightforward as the couple had hoped. Tying up the rooflines between their double-height dream conservatory and their large bungalow was beyond many conservatory companies. “I’m really looking forward to being able to use it year-round. We’ve got such a lovely garden and it’s nice to be able to see more of it,” says Eva.

As a professional yachtswoman, Belinda Hamilton spent more time at sea than in her 17th-century Suffolk cottage. When she changed to a part-time skippering role, she decided that it was time to make some home improvements.

She originally planned to build a small porch at the rear of her house to protect the back door, which she uses as the main entrance, from the effects of the prevailing south-westerly winds and help to insulate the thin-walled rear extension.

Her Anglian designer suggested that a conservatory would enable her to make the best use of the space, and she’s delighted with how he made it complement the existing roofline. Belinda is able to enjoy her conservatory all year round. “My neighbour’s conservatory hits 110 degrees Fahrenheit, while mine’s a comfortable 80 degrees, when it’s sunny,” she said.

She’s thrilled with the design too. “I like the architectural detail and find being in it is like being in the garden – only better. It’s such a joy to spend time in it.” She now uses her conservatory more than any other room in the house.

The combination of a growing family and a desire to make the most of their garden, made a new conservatory the perfect answer for Mark and Sharon John. “You know what it’s like when your children are growing up – We wanted to have a room where we could go,” said Mark.

They chose an Edwardian design and as a “bit of a cleanaholic”, Sharon was impressed by the efficiency, punctuality and thoughtfulness of the fitters.

They can now enjoy the additional living space as well as great views of their garden. The large door opens onto a block-paving patio with a table and chairs so Mark and Sharon can keep an eye on their daughters playing from the comfort of their conservatory.

The quality of the conservatory has also impressed Mark and Sharon. "The brochure didn’t do it justice," he said. “If ever there was an example of getting what you pay for when you choose quality over price, this is it. We love it, the kids love it and we’re all enjoying the improved lifestyle.”