Types of Conservatories: Styles, Costs, and Solid Roof Options

Are you dreaming of a bright, versatile conservatory space that seamlessly connects your home to your garden? A conservatory could be the perfect addition to your property, offering extra living space, natural light, and a boost to your home’s value.

At Green Central, we’re here to guide you through the most popular conservatory styles in the UK, their costs, and the game-changing option of a solid roof—all while ensuring you get the best quote tailored to your needs.

The Most Popular Conservatories & Styles in the UK

When it comes to choosing a conservatory, the UK’s favorites blend style, practicality, and affordability. Selecting the right conservatory style can significantly enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of your home.

Additionally, there are various conservatory types available, such as Victorian, Edwardian, and lean-to, each offering unique benefits. Here’s a look at the top options for 2025:

Lean-To Conservatory

Why It’s Popular: Known for its simplicity and versatility, the lean-to’s slanted roof and rectangular shape make it a perfect fit for both modern and traditional homes. It’s ideal for smaller spaces like reading nooks or cozy dining areas. Lean-to conservatories can also be used as a dining room.
Cost Range: £7,000–£18,000 (depending on size and materials).
Best For: Budget-conscious homeowners seeking a quick, effective solution.

Victorian Conservatories

Why It’s Popular: With its elegant bay front, steeply pitched roof, and ornate details, the Victorian style adds timeless charm. Victorian conservatories are a classic and traditional style. It’s a favorite for lounges or plant-filled retreats.
Cost Range: £9,000–£25,000.
Best For: Those who love traditional aesthetics with a touch of grandeur.

Edwardian Conservatory

Why It’s Popular: Similar to the Victorian but with a flat, rectangular front, this style maximizes floor space—perfect for dining rooms or spacious sunrooms. Edwardian conservatories are similar to Georgian conservatories in their rectangular shape and minimalist aesthetic.
Cost Range: £9,500–£26,000.
Best For: Homeowners wanting classic design with practical space.

Orangery

Why It’s Popular: A luxurious hybrid between a conservatory and an extension, orangeries feature solid brick pillars, large windows, and lantern roofs. They offer privacy and blend seamlessly with your home’s architecture.
Cost Range: £15,000–£35,000+.
Best For: Premium homeowners looking to add significant value (up to 7% to your property).

Gable Conservatories

Why It’s Popular: Gable conservatories are known for their unique upright roof design, which enhances height and allows ample natural light. This style creates a spacious and grand atmosphere, making it a practical and stylish choice for extending living spaces.

Georgian Conservatory

Why It’s Popular: The Georgian conservatory features a rectangular shape and minimalist aesthetic, similar to the Edwardian style. Its clean lines and large glass panels make it suitable for various property types while maximizing usable space and light.

Traditional Conservatory

Why It’s Popular: A traditional conservatory is characterized by its classic design and functionality, differentiating it from other structures like orangeries and combination conservatories. It often includes roofing solutions and structural characteristics that enhance comfort and usability throughout the year.

Conservatory Cost Comparison by Size (2025 Prices)

Conservatory Type	Small (3m x 3m)	Medium (4m x 4m)	Large (6m x 4m+)	Solid Roof Add-On
Lean-To Conservatory	£8,000 – £12,000	£10,000 – £15,000	£14,000 – £20,000	+£2,000 – £3,500
Victorian Conservatory	£9,000 – £15,000	£12,000 – £19,000	£18,000 – £25,000	+£2,500 – £4,000
Edwardian Conservatory	£9,500 – £15,500	£13,000 – £20,000	£19,000 – £26,000	+£2,500 – £4,000
Orangery	£15,000 – £25,000	£20,000 – £30,000	£28,000 – £35,000+	+£3,000 – £5,000

Why Consider a Solid Conservatory Roof?

Traditionally, conservatories come with glass or polycarbonate roofs, flooding the space with light. But here’s a game-changer: solid roof conservatories are transforming how homeowners enjoy these spaces. At Green Central, we’re seeing more customers opt to upgrade to a solid roof for a conservatory – and here’s why:

Year-Round Comfort: Unlike glass roofs that can make conservatories too hot in summer or too cold in winter, solid roofs (like lightweight tiled or GRP options) offer superior insulation, keeping your space cozy and usable all year. Tiled roofs offer superior insulation compared to traditional glass roofs and polycarbonate roofs.
Energy Efficiency: Reduce heating costs with better thermal performance—perfect for the UK’s unpredictable weather. Self cleaning glass can be an advanced feature for conservatories.
Aesthetic Appeal: A solid roof can mimic your home’s existing roofline, creating a seamless extension-like feel. Tiled roofs can mimic your home’s existing roofline, creating a seamless extension-like feel. Add skylights or roof lanterns to keep that bright, airy vibe.
Cost Impact: Adding a solid roof typically increases the price by £2,000–£5,000, depending on size and materials, but the long-term benefits often outweigh the upfront investment.

Whether you choose lean-to, Victorian, Edwardian, or an orangery, a solid roof can elevate your conservatory from a seasonal space to a true all-season room.

What Affects Conservatory Costs?

At Green Central, we believe in transparency. Here’s what influences your investment:

Size: Small (3m x 3m) starts at £7,000, while large (6m x 4m+) can reach £35,000+.
Materials: uPVC is budget-friendly, while hardwood or premium glazing ups the price.
Roof Type: Polycarbonate roofs are the cheapest option, glass offers clarity, and tiled roofs add comfort and increase costs. The choice of conservatory type can also influence costs.
Extras: Bi-fold doors, underfloor heating, or custom finishes can enhance functionality but increase costs.

Why Choose Green Central?

We’re not just about building conservatories—we’re about crafting spaces you’ll love for years. Here’s why potential customers trust us:

Expert Guidance: From choosing the right style to deciding on a solid roof, our team helps you every step of the way. Green Central offers a variety of conservatory styles and conservatory types to suit different needs and preferences.
Quality Craftsmanship: We use top-tier materials and professional installation to ensure durability and style.
Best Quotes Guaranteed: At Green Central, we pride ourselves on offering competitive pricing tailored to your budget. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote and see how affordable your dream conservatory can be.

Ready to Transform Your Home?

A conservatory is more than an addition—it’s an investment in your lifestyle and property value. Whether you’re drawn to the affordability of a lean-to, the elegance of a Victorian, the practicality of an Edwardian, or the luxury of an orangery, Green Central has you covered. Green Central offers a variety of conservatory types to suit different needs and preferences.

Conservatories can serve as versatile living spaces that enhance lifestyle and home aesthetics. And with the option of a solid roof, your new space can be a year-round haven.

Get in touch with Green Central today for the best quote on your new conservatory. Let’s bring your vision to life—affordably, beautifully, and built to last!

FAQS

Do I need planning permission for a conservatory?

In most cases, no – conservatories often fall under Permitted Development Rights in the UK, provided they meet specific criteria (e.g., not exceeding 50% of your garden area, no higher than your home’s roofline, and less than 4m in height). However, if you live in a listed building, conservation area, or opt for an orangery with significant structural changes, permission may be required. At Green Central, we’ll check local regulations and guide you through the process if needed.

How long does it take to build a conservatory?

Build times vary by size and complexity. A small lean-to might take 2–4 weeks, while a larger Victorian or orangery could take 6–8 weeks, including foundation work and finishing. Weather and customisation (like a solid roof) can extend this slightly. We’ll provide a clear timeline when you get your quote from Green Central.

Can I use my conservatory as a kitchen or office?

Yes, with proper planning! A solid roof can make it comfortable year-round, but you’ll need to consider ventilation, plumbing (for kitchens), and electrical wiring. We recommend consulting with our team at Green Central to ensure compliance with building regulations, especially for kitchens, which may require additional approvals.

What maintenance does a conservatory require?

Answer: uPVC frames need minimal upkeep—just a wipe-down with soapy water annually. Glass roofs may require occasional cleaning to remove dirt or algae, while solid roofs are virtually maintenance-free, though gutters should be checked. Green Central uses durable materials to keep your upkeep low, and we’ll advise on care specific to your design.

Will a conservatory affect my home’s energy rating?

It can, depending on the build. Traditional glass-roofed conservatories might lower your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating due to heat loss, but a solid roof with good insulation can improve it. At Green Central, we offer energy-efficient glazing and roofing options to balance light and warmth, potentially boosting your home’s rating.

What’s the difference between a conservatory and an extension?

A conservatory typically has more glass (at least 50% of walls and 75% of the roof) and is treated as a temporary structure under planning rules, while an extension is a solid, permanent addition. Orangeries sit in between, with more brickwork. Green Central can advise on which suits your needs, especially with solid roof options blurring the lines.

How do I choose between glass, polycarbonate, or a solid roof?

It depends on your priorities. Glass offers maximum light and views but less insulation. Polycarbonate is budget-friendly but can be noisy in rain. A solid roof provides comfort and quiet but reduces natural light unless paired with skylights. Our Green Central experts will walk you through the pros and cons to match your lifestyle.