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With the summer rapidly approaching, it’s easy to see why some homeowners are considering installing a conservatory. Conservatories are an excellent way of expanding your living space while allowing you to absorb the summer rays without being exposed to the elements – giving you the best of both worlds.

While conservatories have existed for centuries, the requirements of a homeowner in 2016 are considerably different to those of the aristocrats of previous centuries who owned conservatories. Here are some of the popular conservatory trends for 2016.

Tropical fruits are in

Although conservatories were initially designed to provide shelter for citrus plants, nowadays, homeowners grow a much wider selection of fruits in their conservatories.

Guava is a truly exotic fruit, yet it can also be grown indoors in a pot. Jackfruit is another amazing fruit which will definitely have your house guests in awe if you manage to grow it. As a tropical plant, it’s difficult to survive the cold British winters, but if you’re successful and your plant lasts several years, you will definitely have a great conversation piece in your conservatory!

Leonard Paul, writing for BBG.org, states:

“The fruit turns dark brown when fully ripe and has a distinct, pungent aroma and tastes like a combination of apple, pineapple, banana, and mango.”

Sunrooms

sunroom is essentially a conservatory constructed for the purpose of maximising the amount of natural light entering it. While many people use their conservatories as play areas for their children or home offices, sunrooms are built primarily for relaxation. Typically, a sunroom will come with a glass roof to let the sun in. French doors are a popular stylistic choice, especially for modern designs. Furnishings are typically minimal, although a comfortable deck chair is always a priority!

Traditional is back

In the 17th century, conservatories were designed in a lavish atrium style and were ideal places for social events such as parties. Conservatories of this style in the modern era are known as orangeries, and are more reminiscent of house extensions than the stereotypically glass-heavy builds that people would associate with conservatories. With less glass and more brickwork, this offers a greater sense of privacy which is often popular with families.

Verandas

A sleekly designed veranda is an excellent compliment to modern-style conservatories. Perfect for the summer, you can put your chairs on the veranda to enjoy the warm air as the sun turns to dusk in the evening or stay inside the conservatory where you are protected from the elements. A veranda gives you both options and provides a seamless channel between the exterior and interior of your home.

Conclusion

At Unicorn Windows, we offer a range of exquisite conservatories, orangeries, garden rooms, glazed extensions and verandas in every style you can imagine. If you’re looking to increase the living space of your property or simply want an excellent location to relax and enjoy the sun, please get in contact and we’d be happy to recommend a style of conservatory suitable for your requirements.