Thinking about transforming your old conservatory into a usable, year-round space? It’s a great idea, but whether it’s possible depends on how it was originally built.
Conservatories were all the range in the ‘80s and ‘90s, but many were constructed with basic materials, thin plastic glazing, polycarbonate roofs, and little to no insulation. Without heating or proper insulation, they often turn into a greenhouse in summer and an icebox in winter, far from the cosy, functional space you might have envisioned!
What makes conservatories tricky to upgrade?
Several factors determine how easily your conservatory can be upgraded, including:
Shape & Layout – Simpler shapes, like squares or rectangles, are easier to retrofit.
Structure & Foundations – Some conservatories have minimal or weak foundations, which may not support additional insulation or new walls.
Site Constraints – Elements like adjacent roofs, eaves, or windows may limit your options.
What’s involved in the conversion?
If your conservatory is the right size and layout for your needs, the first step is to assess its foundations. We’d work alongside a Structural Engineer to investigate whether they can support the extra weight of insulation and a new roof. This is crucial before moving forward with any design work.
For a heated, comfortable space, you’ll need:
Insulated walls and roof – Likely using a lightweight timber frame structure.
A new roof – To replace old polycarbonate panels and improve thermal performance.
Reduced glazing – Too much glass can lead to overheating, so balancing natural light with solid walls is key.
What Permissions Do You Need?
Planning Permission – Required if your conservatory is at the front of the house, in a Conservation Area, or if significant changes (like raising the roof) are needed. If it's at the rear, it might fall under your 'permitted development rights'.
Building Warrant Approval – Almost always needed to ensure the space meets the Scottish Building Regulations.
Speak to a Professional
Every conservatory conversion is different, so it’s always best to consult an ARB registered architect. We can help navigate planning permissions, assess structural requirements, and design a comfortable, energy-efficient space tailored to your home.
Need some ideas? Click here to see a conservatory upgrade we are currently working on.
Or, get in touch - we’d love to help!
Flockhart Architects Ltd are a design focussed practice based in Glasgow with projects across the central belt and south-west Scotland. We design residential extensions and alterations, community, civic & commercial buildings and new build eco homes.
We provide a full range of architectural services from feasibility studies and sketch designs to planning applications, building warrant applications and managing the project from inception to completion. Whether it's improving your current home, expanding your living space, building a new home, or converting a barn, our experienced team of architects in Glasgow are here to guide you through every step of the process.
