4 Key Ways to Create a Stylish, Multifunctional Conservatory

4 Ways to Create a Stylish, Multifunctional Conservatory

So, you’ve decided to take the plunge and install a conservatory in your home.

…now what?

Well, now’s the time to start thinking about how to make that space worth the investment. How to get the most bang for your buck. How to use the new space in the most efficient, practical way.

Luckily for you, our team are experts in all things practical, and have compiled a list of ways you can create a multifunctional space for you and all the family to share and enjoy.

Light it Up

Let’s start simple.

If you’re anything like us, your favourite part of the day is probably opening up your curtains first thing in the morning to see what the outside world has to offer that day.

Sometimes, the most basic things are the most effective. There’s nothing quite as visually appealing and functional as natural light in a home.

Of course, there’s no better space in the house to let in natural light than the conservatory. Your close proximity to the outside world means you’ll never run low on vitamin D, which is essential for keeping you happy and productive throughout the day.

Not to mention, having a well-lit room will go a long way in terms of making the space appear more spacious.

Get in the Zone

If you want to maximise the space, why not make it multiple spaces?

Nothing will make a space more versatile than literally splitting it up into sections, dedicating each zone to a different activity.

Need somewhere to work? Pick out a stylish desk and pop it in a corner with plenty of sunlight, close to a power outlet.

Want somewhere to zen out and meditate? Grab yourself a cosy armchair or beanbag and put it at the other end of the conservatory.

There’s no limit to the number of things you can do with your conservatory. Splitting your space into dedicated spaces will help save space and keep you organised.

Think Multiuse

You know what’s multifunctional? Furniture that’s… well, multifunctional. 

If you’re looking to save space, remember you don’t necessarily need something for everything.

Turns out, desks can double as dining tables. Storage boxes can double as shelves. The list goes on and on.

There are also plenty of furniture pieces on the market designed specifically for multiple purposes or to save space. Think laptop trays for your sofa. Fold-away tables and chairs. Nesting tables. Again, the list is inexhaustible. 

If You Don't Need It, Store It

Nothing quite clutters up a space like… clutter.

Shocking, right?

Having plenty of room for storage is key to keeping your space clean and multifunctional. There are countless ways you can store your items with style, from bookcases and cupboards to boxes that double as coffee tables.

Conservatories With Character

For conservatories that never compromise on style or functionality, head down to Outside Interests in Barnham today. Our experienced team members are experts in all things conservatories and are always happy to offer advice where needed.

When Should I Replace My Shed?

No matter how well built your shed might be, it will eventually need some maintenance or renovation. Some shed problems can easily be fixed, whereas others may require a costly repair. If you’re looking to go that route, we may recommend replacing the structure if this is more financially viable.

A damaged shed is not just an eyesore; it’s also a safety hazard. You could be killing your garden furniture with leaks and gaps in the wood that let rats and other vermin through.

If your shed is looking a little worse for wear, then maybe it’s time to give yourself an upgrade. If you have a ripped felt roof, the most simple thing is to get it fixed without investing in new construction. On the other hand, the following signs indicate that it may be best to buy something new instead of repairing an old shed:

Leaks and Wood Warping

Leaks are one of the most common causes of damage in sheds. Not only do they cause an unpleasant smell, but also mould and rot. The damage from large areas of rot can be severe and will ultimately lead to the shed’s structural integrity being compromised. If you’ve been noticing a pesky leak again and again, it might be more difficult than initially thought to fix the problem. The best option may be to get a new shed if the wood is damaged beyond repair.

Rain can cause more than just leaks! It’s important to be aware of what else you might not have seen coming. The effects of moisture on wood are not pretty and can lead to lasting damage, such as warped timber. Sometimes, it is possible to manipulate the wood back into place. However, the shed should be scrapped if it has become too misshaped to use.

Damaged Doors, Windows and Panels

In order to keep your shed in good shape, you need to make sure every element of the structure is working properly. To avoid leaks and damp patches, doors and windows should be easy to open and close. You can fill in any gaps around the openings with sealant to fix this issue. The difference in size between these gaps tells us how much damage there is. Larger differences mean more severe damage that may be impossible to fix! In this case, we strongly advise looking for a new shed. 

Likewise, loose panels can cause a great deal of harm to your shed. Having too many dislodged panels will make the structure of your shed vulnerable to collapse. If you notice one or two panels have become loose, don’t panic! Simply nail them back into place before heading off in search of a professional. Sheds do not last forever, so if the situation gets worse, we advise getting a new one to avoid damaging your garden and storage when it inevitably collapses.

Contact Outside Interests Before It’s Too Late

Maybe you need a larger shed because your current one just isn’t big enough. It can be very inconvenient to have to root through piles and stacks of storage to find that little garden tool you were looking for. You can now have the perfect shed to suit your needs and requirements.
Outside Interests offers bespoke sheds that will transform how you do gardening, whether it’s for professional or personal use. Why wait? Get in touch with our team today, and we’ll be happy to help you decide on the best plan for your needs. Alternatively, come down to our Barnham showroom, where you can browse some of the sheds we have on offer.

Why Do I Need a Conservatory?

Back in the 1700s, homeowners used conservatories to grow tropical fruits due to their ability to trap heat and avoid the rain. In the 21st century, the possibilities for your conservatory are limitless. Equipped with innovative glazing technology and venting systems that keep them at a moderate temperature all year round, the conservatories at Outside Interests can be designed to suit whatever purpose you have in mind, no matter how outlandish. 

Are you thinking about installing a conservatory in your home but unsure how to use it? Here at Outside Interests, we like to think outside the box. Here are just a few of our top suggestions for how you can make the most out of your stylish new build.

Gardening

Before we go too crazy with our suggestions, let’s strip it back to basics. After all, the Georgians might have been on to something with their original intentions for conservatories. Their ability to produce extra heat and moisture whilst trapping sunlight and warding off rain and wind make conservatories the perfect environment for allowing certain plants (that would most certainly not survive outside in unpredictable British weather) to thrive. 

Growing your own produce is highly beneficial in a number of ways. For starters, it can be more environmentally friendly than buying from your local supermarket, as it negates the need for excessive plastic packaging. Moreover, fruit and vegetables from supermarkets are often less nourishing, as transporting them results in a loss of nutrients. Finally, growing your own food can be much more cost-effective than buying it.

Living Room / Dining Room Extension 

This is probably the use that springs to mind when you think of a conservatory. Many homeowners use them to extend their living space, opening up the house to create more room and airiness. By doing so, they also let in an abundance of natural light and warmth, which can help you save on electricity bills. On top of this, we all know the impact sunlight can have on our moods. Imagine being able to reap the benefits of vitamin D when you’re inside, only with none of the wind, rain or snow.

But why stop with the living room? Why not use your conservatory to extend your dining area, opening up the space for guests and bathing them in warmth and light as they eat their food? One amazing benefit of this option is its ability to transform a summer barbecue. We’ve all been there – got everything cooking outside just as it starts to drizzle with rain. With your stylish conservatory, you won’t have to worry about hastily rushing everything back to the kitchen, and you can still pretend you’re outside (whilst angrily cursing the British weather.)

Office

Since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, working at home has become increasingly common and a permanent, preferable solution for many. There comes a time when working at your kitchen table won’t cut it anymore, and you may have been thinking of investing in a functional office space. In this case, a stylish conservatory workspace could be the perfect solution.

Contact Outside Interests Today

The benefits and uses of conservatories in this day and age certainly don’t stop with the few mentioned above. From a games room to a kitchen extension, there are countless other ways to enjoy your home’s naturally warm, bright new space. If you’re interested in finding out more about the extensive range of conservatory styles we have on offer, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with the team at Outside Interests. We would be more than happy to help you with any enquiries and make suggestions based on your property, requirements and wishes.