TV star Anna Ryder shares her tips for transforming your conservatoryIf you’re someone who has a conservatory, knowing how to make use of the space can be difficult. Throughout winter it can be too cold to use, while in summer it can get too hot depending on how it is built – however, that doesn’t mean that you should neglect it and let it become a room that simply holds all of your miscellaneous items. With the help of Changing Rooms TV star and interior designer Anna Ryder Richardson, here’s how you can revitalise your conservatory space for spring and summer and finally make the most of that extra room…
Anna says that you should declutter your conservatory to stop it becoming overwhelming
Install insulation Conservatories are often only used for a few weeks a year because it’s too warm in the summer and too cold in the winter. But Anna believes homeowners should resist the temptation to demolish them and instead install insulation and ‘floor art’ to transform that space. “It’s a gift, an extra living space. Space is what we all crave and millions of people have it, yet don’t make nearly enough use of it.” Get creative With proper insulation and creative furnishings, conservatories can become versatile extensions of your living space. “Modular, multi-functional furniture works best in conservatories. Consider a hard wearing rug to elevate the space. I love rugs – it’s a piece of art on your floor!” says Anna. “When it comes to furniture, can you move stuff around to suit the season? Or is it time to invest in a statement chair or sofa that will really make you happy?”
Anna Ryder says that having a conservatory is a “gift”
For that versatile space, this Geometric Abstract Swirl Rug, £49 here, from Dunelm will add a contemporary feel to your room, while this Habitat Diamond Tufted Rug, £55 here, from Argos will create a luxury feel. Turn it into a sanctuary Anna admits that There is no better feeling than relaxing in a conservatory. “That feeling like you’re sitting outside because of all the light and how close you are to nature, but you’re inside. I’ve seen brilliant gyms, offices and once I saw a playroom for a pair of twins which was so great because they were able to run from the outside to the inside all day. “It’s a huge missed opportunity not to use the space – update it, refresh it and you’ll love it. You’re sitting among the seasons, it’s so beautiful.” Don’t let the overwhelm win Don’t be overwhelmed by a refresh or refurb project,” Anna advises. “Subtle changes can make a huge difference.” She emphasises the importance of decluttering, suggesting that a clearout of unnecessary items can create a vision for your conservatory. “Start with a declutter. In colder months we love having all of our stuff out as we’re spending so many hours indoors. However, now is the time to get lots of it gone. It really makes me sad when people use their conservatory as a dumping ground. Or shut the door on it for seven or eight months of the year.”
Anna says that you should declutter your conservatory to stop it becoming overwhelming
Embrace change Anna encourages homeowners to embrace change and create interiors that reflect their personalities. For those looking to infuse their space with the vibrant energy of early summer, Anna recommends incorporating the colour of the year: peach. “Tie your peach with a green, a purple or a blue. One of the nicest combinations I’ve seen recently has been peach and turquoise. It has a really tropical feel.” For that easy pop of colour, we love this Sara Miller Heron Cushion, £55 here, from John Lewis as well as this Heart Soul Applique Birds Cushion, £25 here, from Dunelm. For more information, visit www.conservatoryinsulations.comStory SavedYou can find this story in My Bookmarks.Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right.Follow OK! MagazineFacebookTwitterMore OnInside HomesShopping
