Decor is a big deal - it can make or break a space. It can be hard to settle on a theme or style. Thats why we've put together some inspiration to help you decide.
One of the biggest benefits of a conservatory is the bright, airy space it offers. Whether you opt for a Contemporary, Edwardian, Victorian or Gable-end Conservatory, the natural character can help you make the most of your outdoor space and create a stylish retreat.
A good interior decor scheme can truly transform it into a functional and chic space and enhance its natural beauty. If you’re short on conservatory decor ideas, this article explores colour schemes, furniture options and how to style it on a budget.
Where to begin
How do you plan to use your conservatory? Will it be a reading room, home office, lounge or entertaining space? Once you have set a purpose for it, you can plan the decor accordingly. It’s also a good idea to set a budget at this stage.
Decide what type of theme you want. That might be natural, minimal, modern, vintage or monochromatic.
Pick up some interior magazines for inspiration or have a look at home influencers and brands on social media channels like Instagram, TikTok and Pinterest. Next, put together a physical mood board to bring all your ideas together and see what works well together. Include paint swatches, fabrics, pictures of furniture or accessories.
It’s also a good idea to measure your conservatory so you have a rough idea of the furniture you can add.
Conservatory colour schemes
Conservatories can be showstopping if designed well, especially because of the natural light they bring in. You want to accentuate that brightness with light colours, but don’t be afraid to experiment with bright or bold colours.
If your conservatory is partially glazed, you will have wall space to paint or add artwork. If not, you can bring the colour scheme to life through your furniture and accessory choices.
These colour schemes make for a chic and stylish conservatory:
- White, taupe, brown and green
- Grey, black and white
- Soft green, taupe and white
Pastels like blue, green, pink and yellow are perfect in a conservatory because they add hints of colour but still reflect the natural light. On the other hand, natural browns and greens create an indoor-outdoor vibe and can be enhanced with plants, patterned pillows or rugs. Meanwhile, bold colours like red look striking when placed strategically with furniture or accessories.
Conservatory furniture ideas
If you want to create a lounge or den, some plush, fabric sofas will add extra comfort and cosiness. However, a fabric sofa can fade in a conservatory, so consider buying specific conservatory furniture that’s designed to resist discolouration in the sun. These pieces may have a higher upfront cost but will be more durable.
Depending on how you plan to use your conservatory, you might need:
- Sofa
- Chairs
- Coffee table
- Dining table
- Cabinet
- Storage
You may also need blinds or curtains for privacy or to help insulate your conservatory. Roller blinds are a good option because you can open them to have a full view of your garden, or close them for complete privacy. Choose neutral colours like taupe or white or pick a shade that complements or contrasts with your conservatory frame.
Accessories
Accessories can take a space from bland to chic and stylish. They also help you to add colour and personalise the space.
Lighting - Choose a stylish floor lamp to create a focal point and add height to your conservatory. Desk lamps or fairy lights also create a dreamy ambiance especially in the evenings.
Plants - Dress your coffee or dining table with some fresh and vibrant flowers and add to the natural theme with potted plants. These can be placed next to your lamp or on your window sills.
Artwork - Add colour or style through artwork with a wall canvas or photo frames. This can add personality into the space and help to make it your own. But avoid putting valuable or sentimental wall art in your conservatory because it can fade in the sun.
Finishing touches - To create a snug space, add cushions, warm blankets and a rug. Or if you want to make an impact, add a patterned rug with some matching pillows to tie it together.
Decorating a small conservatory
If you’re limited with your floor space, the initial prep is essential. Measure your conservatory and any furniture pieces to see what you can fit without it looking cramped.
Consider multifunctional furniture like an extendable dining table, reclining chair or sofa bed that can be closed when not in use. It’s best not to overdo it with furniture, so keep it minimal. Place sofas or chairs against plain walls to enhance the floor space and don’t cover the windows with any tall pieces like cabinets.
Decorating a conservatory on a budget
If you’re on a budget, see what you already have at home and what can be repurposed. For example, you may already have some paint, and you won’t need a lot of it because conservatories are largely made from windows.
Visit some second hand stores to find one-off pieces or look on online marketplaces where you might even pick up a freebie. These pieces can even be upcycled to give your conservatory a unique edge.
You don’t always need to make drastic changes either. Changing your cushion covers, replacing plants or adding artwork can transform the look and feel of your conservatory.
Conservatory flooring
Flooring is important in a conservatory. You need a material that won’t warp, crack or fade in the sunlight, so wooden floors or carpet are out of the equation.
One of the best options is high-quality ceramic tiles which are easy to clean, durable and versatile. Opt for a light colour because it won’t absorb the sunlight or be too hot to walk on. Luxury vinyl flooring or laminate is also a good option for your conservatory because it mimics the appearance of natural wood but won’t warp or crack.
How to make your conservatory cosy
Accessories like blankets, rugs and cushions will help your conservatory look and feel cosy. Furniture choices are also important here as well as lighting which can set the atmosphere.
But if your conservatory is older with a polycarbonate or glass roof, it might not be cosy all year round. Older conservatories tend to face issues with temperature regulation so it may feel damp or humid depending on the weather, which can make it unusable.
If that’s the case, consider a conservatory conversion to transform it into a modern, energy efficient, fully insulated and stylish space that’s the perfect temperature all year round.
The new home extension uses your existing conservatory base and your old structure is recycled. It’s fixed in just weeks and comes complete with double-glazed doors and windows, a solid tiled roof and the interior ready for you to decorate.
The EurXtension system also offers a range of exterior finishes like brick or render, and you can add roof lights like the picture above.
A well-built conservatory that’s fully functional, insulated and energy efficient can also add value to your home.
Creating a functional space
Conservatories are versatile spaces that you can decorate to suit your style or preference, but they should also be functional. Comfort is key if you want to get the most out of your conservatory and make the most of the natural light.
A modern conservatory conversion offers the same character as a traditional conservatory, but blends into your home seamlessly and helps you enjoy your conservatory no matter the weather. Find out how to replace your conservatory with a modern, energy efficient and insulated conservatory.
