A Heritage Home’s Perfect Match: Sympathetic Victorian Style Conservatory

How the Harrisons added space without spoiling their heritage home’s charm

The Problem: More Room, Same Character

The Harrisons loved their 1890s Victorian house in Bath – until their twin boys turned five. “We needed space where the kids could play,” says mum Emily, “but every modern extension we saw looked wrong.”

They needed: ✔ Extra living area . ✔ Something matching their home’s style . ✔ No messy planning permission fights. ✔ A space they could use all year.

The Solution: A Proper Victorian Style Conservatory

After talking to specialists, they chose a heritage conservatory inspired by original Victorian greenhouse designs. The key features:

• Traditional look: Curved glass roof and slim metal frames just like the originals

• Hidden modern bits: Double glazing you can’t see and quiet underfloor heating

• Perfect fit: Brickwork that matches the house exactly

• Easy living: Doors that open wide to the garden in summer

“It’s not a copy,” explains builder Tom Wilkins. “We studied old Victorian greenhouse plans to get the details right.”

How Life Changed

Since the conservatory was finished: • The boys have a bright play area (that’s easy to clean) • The family eats breakfast there every day • They use it even in winter – it’s properly warm • The house value went up by £75,000 (their estate agent’s estimate)

What the Family Says

“It’s like the house always had this bit missing. The kids call it ‘the sunny room’ and fight over who gets to open the windows in the morning. Best of all, none of our Victorian-loving neighbors complained – several asked for our builder’s number!” – Emily Harrison

Why This Works So Well

1. Looks right: No one can tell it’s new

2. Works hard: From playroom to dinner party space

3. No headaches: Proper materials mean almost no maintenance

4. Good investment: Adds real value, not just space

Their Advice For You

If you’re thinking about something similar:

• Find builders who’ve done proper heritage conservatory work before

• Don’t cheap out on windows – good ones look right AND work better

• Visit houses with original Victorian additions to spot the little details

• Be patient – proper craftsmanship takes time

The Bottom Line

This Victorian style conservatory shows you don’t have to choose between keeping your home’s character and getting the space you need. As Emily says: “It cost more than a plastic conservatory, but every penny shows. Ten years on, it still looks perfect.”