In short: yes, you can use a conservatory as a bedroom, but you’ll need to ensure it meets building regulations for insulation, ventilation, and safety to make it a comfortable and legal living space. We'll cover this and more below so you can be sure your conservatory bedroom is done right.
Conservatories are versatile. You can create a comfy lounge, home office or vibrant entertainment space, but have you ever considered a conservatory bedroom?
A conservatory is an innovative way to make use of your space without having to build an expensive extension or move homes. But is a conservatory bedroom achievable? We find out below.
Benefits of a conservatory bedroom
Well-built conservatories are light, open spaces that offer plenty of character – and they are also cost-effective compared to extensions. If you’re in need of an extra bedroom, here’s why a conservatory might be the right option for you:
- Spacious and bright
- Offers independence and privacy
- Natural atmosphere
- Customisable
- Multifunctional
- Cost-effective
- Characterful
- Typically quick and fast installation
Considerations when sleeping in a conservatory
Older conservatories with polycarbonate or glass roofs might not make for a practical conservatory bedroom because of the temperature extremes that typically occur. But modern and energy efficient conservatories can create a cosy, snug space to get a good night’s rest because they are adequately insulated and energy efficient.
The conservatory bedroom would also need to meet certain standards so that it’s safe and liveable. It will need insulation, which can be improved by installing double-glazing or a solid tiled roof.
Temperature
Conservatories with old polycarbonate or glass roofs tend to have issues with temperature regulation. The classic too hot and too cold battle can make it uncomfortable to sleep in. To mitigate this, you can add ceiling or floor fans during the summer, or portable heaters in the winter.
But a more permanent and functional solution is opting for a warm tiled roof. This may sound daunting but it’s actually a straightforward process. A solid roof, like the Equinox Tiled Conservatory Roof Replacement, improves insulation preventing heat from escaping.
A survey is typically completed to check if your existing walls can support the roof. If so, it can be installed in as little as two days and can improve energy efficiency and lower your bills.
Bright light
Conservatories let natural light stream into your home making it feel spacious and bright. While this is perfect for daytime, bright light can disturb your sleep especially if you work irregular patterns like night shifts.
The solution is simple – add blinds or curtains to block out the light. There are plenty of options like blackout or thermal blinds, which also help with insulation. A solid tiled roof can also help to prevent glare.
Noise
Some people may like falling asleep to the sounds of nature or rainfall, which makes a conservatory ideal. But if you need total silence, outdoor noise can be disruptive especially if you live on a main road.
Insulation can help to block out the noise. Consider installing double-glazed doors and windows, and a tiled roof to keep noise to a minimum. Thick blinds will also help. Check for any gaps or cracks around your conservatory doors, windows and roof, and seal these.
Security
Conservatories offer panoramic views into your garden but this can also reduce your privacy, especially if a neighbouring property is facing it. Adding blinds and curtains may make you feel more comfortable and keeps your belongings out of view (more on this below).
Keep windows closed and doors locked when sleeping and consider installing double-glazed windows to improve your security. Make sure your conservatory bedroom has easy exit routes and is fire safe too.
Ventilation
Conservatories need ventilation to ensure the air quality is good and prevent humidity. You can install roof vents which reduce humidity levels and hot air, and keep the windows open during the daytime to allow air flow.
Planning permission and Building Regulations
Conservatories typically fall under Permitted Development rights, so you don’t need planning permission, subject to conditions. For example, it can’t take over 50% of your garden or have a balcony.
But turning your conservatory into a bedroom can change its use, so it’s best to get in touch with your local planning authority before you start your project. They can advise if you need to apply for planning permission.
You would also need to make sure that your conservatory bedroom is built in line with Building Regulations. It should be fire safe, energy efficient, well-ventilated and insulated, and accessible. You might have to make changes if it doesn’t currently meet these standards like installing double-glazing to improve insulation or fire and smoke alarms.
Conservatory bedroom ideas
Furniture
Start by measuring up your space. You will need a bed, wardrobe and storage, and if your conservatory is on the spacious side, you could fit a dressing table and desk.
But if you’re limited with space, consider multi-functional furniture like a sofa bed or ottoman for extra storage. You could also maximise space by adding wardrobes with built-in desks.
Keep your bed pushed against a wall and avoid placing tall furniture in front of windows because it will block out the light.
Blinds
Roller or venetian blinds are good options for conservatories because you can easily control how much light is let in. Opt for special conservatory blinds which often have advanced features like thermal or solar reflective technology. You can also get electric roof blinds to help prevent glare.
Accessories
Add finishing touches like rugs, plush cushions, lamps, wall art and plants. These can add colour and personality to your space. You might find bespoke pieces in vintage shops or you can even upcycle existing pieces.
When choosing your plants, ensure they will thrive in your conservatory bedroom. Succulents, such as aloe vera, are good options as they like warmer temperatures.
Colour scheme
Keep the colour scheme light to complement the natural vibe and brightness.
Light colours like white and taupe, or pastels like green, pink or blue can help your conservatory feel airy and spacious. Wooden furniture or accessories like storage basks will also add to the natural vibe.
Add hints of colour with your accessories or bedding.
Is a conservatory or extension better?
If you need an extra bedroom, a conservatory and extension are great ways to increase your space. And if built well, both can boost your property’s value. But they do have some key differences:
Price: An extension can cost up to £100,000 depending on the project, whereas a conservatory generally starts from around £10,000.
Time: Conservatories can be built in around six weeks, but extensions can take up to six months or more if there are any delays like bad weather or hidden issues.
Disruption: Extensions cause mess and disruption during the building process but a modern conservatory is fitted while keeping disruption to a minimum.
The good news is that you don’t have to choose between the two. If you have an existing conservatory, it can be converted into a fully insulated, energy efficient and stylish conservatory bedroom.
Conservatory conversions
With a conservatory conversion, your old structure is recycled and replaced with a stylish, modern extension to create a functional and stylish conservatory bedroom. It boasts all the features of a conservatory adding brightness to your home and panoramic views of your garden, but it’s more energy efficient and fully insulated.
It uses your existing conservatory base so there is no need to dig messy foundations and the best part is, the process is completed within weeks as opposed to months unlike a traditional extension. It comes complete with A-rated doors and windows, a tiled roof and completed interior so it can be used straight away. Find out how you can create a comfortable conservatory bedroom all year round with Eurocell’s Conservatory Conversions.
