Stunning Sunrooms

Even without the presence of sunshine, a room that's always filled with natural light can be a welcome addition to your home

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Balancing great design with a room that is practical and comfortable, whatever the weather, is key if you're planning to add a sunroom to your home. Avoiding spaces that are too hot in the summer and cold in the winter in order to have year-round enjoyment is, after all, the ultimate goal.

'Sunrooms typically feature less glass than a conservatory and will often be built in similar materials to the existing house (a tiled roof is commonly carried over, for instance),' says homes and interiors journalist, Rebecca Foster. 'Sunshine will be channelled in via large windows, glazed doors, rooflights or a dramatic feature like a glazed gable. It may also be more integrated into the layout of your existing home than a conventional conservatory.'

Whether you're seeking a sunroom-style conservatory, orangery, modern glass box or something more modest, there are plenty of ideas and styles to choose from.

EMPLOY A VARIETY OF VENTILATION TECHNIQUES

Locating a sunroom on a southern elevation, as shown left, allows for the space to make the most of the light, although be sure to consider how to prevent overheating in homes and in any glazed spaces facing south.

'I'd recommend that the orientation of the glazed façades is a consideration,' says Michelle Martin, glazing expert at IQ Glass. 'Solar-control glass can help reduce overheating, as can cantilevered roofs or rooflights with blinds.'

A fresh air supply will also ensure the room doesn’t become unbearable on a summer's day — think openable windows and doors, roof vents and trickle ventilation.

CONSIDER AN OVERHANG TO PROVIDE SHADING