I would agree with the brick built one but also have as many windows as practical - if you feel more light would be needed roof windows are good. Will you retain two rooms or have part of the construction open plan?
You could even go for a timber framed kit extension which will be built to your design. I wouldn't go for a south facing conservatory. We made that mistake years ago and had to change the roof to a solid one.
Hi Joolz1954, an architect would be able to advise, without huge cost. Every year the RIBA have a charity scheme where individuals can have an architect visit them and give an hour of professional advice, in return for a £40 donation to Shelter. If you go onto the RIBA website you will find more info. The project is called "Architect in the House". X
Remember to add in the cost of blinds as any glass construction facing South will be extremely hot in summer. My preference would be brick built possibly with a roof lantern.
Brick built with big patio doors any day over a conservatory; I've never had one, but they just seem like a real schlep to me (as appealing as they may look); I've always thought about the hassle of keeping all that glass clean. And the temperature control must be a problem, I hadn't thought of that.
Brick built with patio or bi-folding doors. Conservatories are OK if the space isn't intended to be used all the time but, from what I've seen, at certain times of the year they seem to be either too hot or too cold to be comfortable or energy-efficient.
Brick but with lots of glass (is that an orangery, Aka? I have always liked the look of conservatories I have had, but we honestly have never used them much. They just came with each house!
The best thing we did was to extend the kitchen and add a big, light filled dining area, with patio doors and big windows, and room for an armchair. Loved it.
I agree with Tanith. I personally would go for a brick built extension because of the temperature control problem with conservatories. When they work well they are great but it is difficult to get the correct temperature control whereas with a brick built extension it will have double glazing, central heating etc.
An extension will add a band to council tax, I am not sure if a conservatory will.
I know people with both and the ones who have conservatorys don't seem to use them as much as those with brick built ones. I would think if you are having one with all the bells and whistles, heating,double glazing,blinds etc then it would be fine otherwise I'd go for brick built extension.
Hi We are about to buy a new house and are undecided about how to make more space. The living room and kitchen back onto a private, south facing garden. The kitchen is a bit small so we are looking to extending into the garden, while doing that, we might as well extend the living room as well. Our dilemma is, do we build a proper extension i.e. bricks/tiled roof or do we go for a large conservatory style extension to make the most of the garden. What are the pros and cons of a mainly glass extension.