**A collaboration with Three Counties and Direct Bifold Doors**
When we moved into our current house, we did various building works to put our stamp on the place and get the layout how we wanted. We knocked two small reception rooms together, moved a kitchen from one area to another – and replaced a fixed window with a set of small French doors leading out onto the garden. These alterations proved very successful in the main, but over the years we’ve seriously regretted one missed opportunity. Close to the newly installed French doors was another window on the same wall. We really, really should have put in much larger bi-fold doors.
Even though the current situation works quite well, bi-fold doors would have been amazing. We can’t believe we didn’t do it back then! They would have opened up effortlessly, completely bringing the outdoors in, and creating a huge space that was half kitchen diner and half patio garden. Also, our house suffers from lack of light for much of the day and this problem would also have been aided by the larger expanse of glass.
It’s never to late, we suppose – and if we decide to stay in this house for the foreseeable future, trade bifold doors will be a definite addition. And there are other glass structures that are worth considering. They can really transform a house or space within it and add value to your property. Here are 5 ideas for glass rooms in your home.
Conservatory
This is another home improvement that we’ve thought about. Having that space that is bright and airy – and usable all year round is such a wonderful asset. People style them in all kinds of ways, but we love the classic orangeries in particular. We’d have a host of tropical plants, fruit trees or vines – and then a simple seating area – a bit shabby chic in looks with weathered metal, rattan and aged wood. We can just imagine the amazing light, ambient warmth and the wonderful smell of fresh plants.
To ensure this vision becomes a reality, choosing the right glazing is crucial. To ensure you’re receiving high-quality options that enhance both energy efficiency and aesthetics, companies such as ZEN Double Glazing are worth considering. This way, you can be confident that you’re creating a space that’s comfortable in every season. With thoughtful design and durable materials, a conservatory truly becomes a year-round haven.
Greenhouse
The conservatory or orangery is a mixed use space – for both leisure and growing plants. If you’re going for full on crop production, then a greenhouse might be the answer. Also, many houses don’t have a footprint that allows for an attached conservatory, so an independent structure in the garden is the obvious answer. They can be installed with shelving, staging, seed trays and potting benches – and there’s nothing stopping you putting in a comfy chair so you can enjoy a nice cup of tea surrounded by the fruits of your labour!
Art room
Perhaps you’d want to use your glass structure as an art or craft room. The light would be a big plus factor of course. Also, your new space could have uninterrupted views of, or be surrounded by, nature – providing endless inspiration and a calm environment for creative thought and work.
Home gym
Going to the gym generally fills us with dread. I’d make up all sorts of excuses not to go. However, if we had a little room at home with a few free weights, exercise bike or rowing machine that looked out on to the garden we could happily while away a couple of hours exercising while watching and listening to the birds in the garden. Full height roller or Venetian blinds and pivot roof windows will help keep the room cool as we burn those calories! If you’re more of a swimming fan than a fan of weights, you could even create an indoor pool room. Kinniburgh Pools indoor and outdoor pool designers can advise you on this and the options available to you.
Play room
Is your home being over-run with kids toys and furniture? A dedicated play area might be the answer. The children could see it as their own little den or clubhouse. It could be attached to the house where they can play in a safe, bright, well ventilated space. You could join in the fun – or get on with a few household jobs close by. Perhaps you might like something outside – it would be an adventure in itself, heading for their own room at the bottom of the garden. They could help you decorate the ZEN Double Glazing glass with fun decals or transfers. It could be filled with toys – perhaps even a year-round padding pool with a beach theme. You might actually have the luxury of being able to monitor activities from your deck chair close by!
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