One of the most common questions we’re asked is, ‘What is the difference between a veranda and a conservatory?’ Both add light, space, and value to your home while making the most of your garden, but they do so in different ways. Understanding the differences will help you decide which option suits your lifestyle best.
What is a veranda?
A veranda is a stylish, covered outdoor space, offering shelter while maintaining a strong connection to your garden. With a louvered or glass roof and open sides (or optional glass panels for extra protection), it creates a comfortable spot to relax, entertain, or dine alfresco.
Why choose a veranda, pergola, or glass room?
A pergola extends your living space into the garden, creating a seamless flow between indoors and outdoors. It’s ideal for those who enjoy fresh air but want protection from the elements.
Whether it’s a warm summer evening or a crisp autumn afternoon, a glass room allows you to enjoy your outdoor space in comfort. With optional side screens or glass enclosures, a glass room allows you to adjust your level of shelter depending on the season. Unlike fully enclosed spaces, verandas and pergolas require minimal upkeep.
A veranda is often more cost-effective than a conservatory as it requires fewer construction materials and no foundations. Installation is quicker and simpler, with many designs being modular and easily adaptable to different spaces.
In most cases, verandas do not require planning permission if they meet permitted development criteria, such as not exceeding 50% of the land around the original house. Conservatories can be more complex, with planning requirements depending on factors like size, heating, structure, and materials.
What is a conservatory?
A conservatory is a fully enclosed glass extension designed as an additional indoor room. With walls and a roof typically made from glass or polycarbonate, it allows plenty of natural light to flood in, creating a bright and airy space.
While conservatories provide a more enclosed setting, they can sometimes be challenging to regulate in extreme temperatures—too hot in summer and too cold in winter—unless additional insulation or climate control solutions are installed. They also require more maintenance and take longer to construct.
Which option is best for you?
The right choice depends on how you plan to use the space, your budget and your maintenance preferences. If you want a flexible, open space that lets you enjoy fresh air while staying sheltered, a pergola could be the perfect solution. If you prefer a fully enclosed, integrated extension to your home, a traditional conservatory may be the better fit.
Making the most of your garden
A glass room offers the perfect balance between comfort and the great outdoors! It allows you to embrace garden living without feeling entirely shut away from nature. Whether you're enjoying a quiet morning coffee, hosting a family barbecue, or unwinding with a book, a pergola gives you the perfect space to do so in style.
If you’d like to chat in more detail, book a free survey and consultation - we’ll help you make the right choice for you and your family.
