Design A Glass Extension

Glass Extension Credit: Darren Chung/Mainstream Images

The traditional conservatory with wicker three-piece may have had its day, but the glass installation certainly hasn't. Here's how to give your home a stunning contemporary edge.

Spoilt for Choice

A few years back, most of us were content to soak up the summer sun in a simple conservatory or modest sunroom. These days there are so many modern alternatives to consider, from a striking pitched glass roof for your kitchen diner to a streamlined glass-box living room that will link your house and garden seamlessly and have your neighbours clawing the fence with envy. And, although these glass additions look super-slick, we're happy to tell you that they needn't cost the earth and can be simpler to install than you think.

HowTo Make An Extension Profitable

Firstly, like any substantial home improvement, the cost of your glass addition should ideally relate to the overall value of your home. If you own a home worth £1 million pounds, spending £50,000 makes sense; but if your home is worth, say, around £100,000 you should spend less than £5,000, and so on... However, if you do want a great one and you can afford it, you should go for it. Just bear in mind that if you move in the immediate future you may not get all your investment back.

Secondly, the glass feature must look good in relation to the style of your home. For example, if you have a 1970s terrace, don't prop a Victorian-style conservatory on the back. Ideally, the space should be linked to the house, not shut off with external-style doors, or it will be classed as a garden room and won't add value to your home. Ensure the floor levels and finishes are tied in with the house, that the area is heated, and don't furnish it with cane furniture which makes it look like granny's porch...

Follow these rules of thumb and the money you spend has got a better chance of being repaid in the future.