If you want a conservatory that looks smart and gives you as much usable space as possible, an Edwardian conservatory is a great choice. Its square or rectangular shape is easy to furnish, and its elegant roof suits most types of house.
This guide explains what an Edwardian conservatory is, how it compares with other styles, what affects the price, and how to make sure your quote is fair.
Key points
- An Edwardian conservatory, also called a Georgian conservatory, has a square or rectangular footprint.
- Its roof slopes on three sides up to a central ridge.
- It makes the most of the floor space, so it’s easy to furnish.
- Size, roof type, walls and base drive the price.
What is an Edwardian conservatory?
An Edwardian conservatory has straight sides and a flat front, giving a square or rectangular room. The roof is hipped, which means it slopes up from the front and both sides to a ridge, creating a high, airy ceiling. It’s sometimes called a Georgian conservatory.
Because there are no angled facets, every corner is usable, which makes it ideal as a dining room, lounge, playroom or home office.
Who is an Edwardian conservatory best for?
- Anyone who wants maximum usable space for their budget.
- Most house styles, from period homes to modern houses, thanks to its classic proportions.
- Dining rooms and living spaces, where square furniture fits neatly.
Pros and cons
Pros: excellent use of floor space, elegant look, plenty of headroom and suitable for lots of house styles.
Cons: less ornate than a Victorian, and the hipped roof needs enough height against the house, so it may not fit under very low eaves. A lean-to may suit low eaves better.
Choices that affect the price
- Size. Width and projection are the biggest factors.
- Dwarf wall or full height glazing. Brick dwarf walls are popular for privacy, heat retention and a more solid look.
- Roof. Polycarbonate, glass, or solid and tiled. A solid roof makes the room more comfortable year round but costs more and can affect building regulations.
- Frames. White uPVC is usually best value; colours, foils and aluminium cost more.
- Doors and extras such as French doors, electrics, heating, blinds and flooring.
What should be on an Edwardian conservatory quote?
- Style, size, drawings and roof pitch.
- Foundations, base, damp proofing and floor.
- Dwarf walls and brick type to match your house.
- Frame system, colour and glass specification.
- Roof system and roof glazing or panels.
- Doors, electrics, heating, plastering and flooring if included.
- Waste removal, making good and who handles any approvals.
Planning permission and building regulations depend on the size and how the conservatory connects to your house. Our types of conservatory guide explains the main rules.
Edwardian vs Victorian vs gable-fronted
An Edwardian gives you the most practical floor space. A Victorian has a rounded front with more character but slightly less usable space. A gable-fronted conservatory has the same square shape as an Edwardian but with an upright front that feels even taller and brighter.
Making the most of an Edwardian conservatory
The square shape gives you a lot of flexibility. A few ideas to plan for before you get quotes:
- Use it as a real room. Many people use an Edwardian as a dining room, snug or home office. Plan sockets, lighting and TV points now, as adding them later costs more.
- Keep it comfortable. A glass roof with solar control coating or a solid roof makes a big difference in summer and winter. Roof vents and opening windows help airflow.
- Flooring. Tiles, laminate or engineered wood all work. Make sure the base and floor finish are clear on every quote so you’re comparing the same thing.
- Heating. To stay exempt from building regulations, the heating should be independent from the house with its own controls.
Tips before you get Edwardian conservatory quotes
- Measure the space you have and decide on a rough width and depth.
- Check the height of first floor windows and gutters, as the hipped roof needs room against the house.
- Decide between brick dwarf walls and full height glass.
- Choose your doors and their position: French doors in the front are classic, but side doors can work better for some gardens.
How BeatMyWindowQuote saves you money
Edwardian conservatories are built using frame and roof systems from a small number of manufacturers, made up by trade fabricators and sold through many local installers. The same conservatory can often be built by several companies near you, at very different prices.
Upload your Edwardian conservatory quote and we’ll split it into its parts, check what’s included, and ask vetted local installers and fabricators to price exactly the same build. You’ll see the prices side by side, cheapest first. Nobody gets your name or number unless you choose them, and it’s free. Find out more on our conservatories page.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the difference between Edwardian and Georgian conservatories?
They’re two names for the same style: a square or rectangular conservatory with a hipped roof.
Is an Edwardian conservatory good for a dining room?
Yes. The square shape fits rectangular tables and chairs perfectly, and the high roof makes it feel spacious.
Can I add an Edwardian conservatory to a bungalow?
Sometimes, but the roof needs enough height against the house. If your eaves are low, a lean-to might fit better. Ask each company at the survey, and see our FAQ for more.
