Are you desperate to be able to enjoy the summer without having days ruined by our unpredictable weather?

The answer has got to be a conservatory - the perfect light, airy retreat where you can enjoy a long, leisurely lunch looking out at your private landscape, or have a romantic dinner in the evening gazing up at the stars.

It's also a great addition to any home - and could even add value to your property, as a conservatories are rated as the top non-essential home improvement.

Before you join the fast-growing 'conservatory club' - it's estimated that 12% of all homes in Britain have one installed - it's important to be aware of what makes a conservatory work well.

Aidan Jackson, marketing director of Amdega conservatories, says: "Space is always at a premium and a conservatory is the most versatile way of getting extra living space. These rooms can be used for anything from a dining room to a playroom, or even their traditional use cultivating exotic house plants.

"I think one of the most unusual uses we have seen one put to was housing someone's valuable collection of tortoises!"

He cautions that however you use your conservatory, "it shouldn't overpower the garden by being too large, and in style it must harmonise with the property's original style or period.

"Good construction, with the stone or brick base blending with the house's structure, is also vital. Don't neglect adequate ventilation and heating so that you ensure the room can be used all year round. A space that is searingly hot in the summer or freezing in the winter is pointless."

Conservatories have come a long way since they were invented by the Dutch in the 17th century to house plants.

They now come in a variety of different sizes from the lean-to, octagonal bay, rectilinear gabled structure, or a hipped structure on the side of a home.

Styles include classic Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian. Materials include PVCu, PVCu wood grain and hardwood and they come in hundreds of sizes.

If you opt for a bespoke conservatory, ensure the designer incorporates your requests so the building is tailored to your lifestyle.

A south-facing room will benefit from heat and light throughout the year - ideal if you live in northern England or Scotland - but you will need blinds and extra ventilation for the warmer south.

You will need double glazing and extra insulation in a north-facing conservatory.

The back of the house is the most common position for a conservatory, but you may be able to add one to the side of your home if it is set back slightly by even a couple of bricks.

Do not demolish a garage to fit a conservatory as it could put off future buyers.

A conservatory can adapt to whatever style you choose, whether contemporary or traditional. When it comes to furnishing, it's an opportunity to try something different in style from the rest of the home.

In general, light, bright fabrics and informal furniture suit airy, sun-filled rooms. Aidan Jackson, marketing director of Amdega, says: "Avoid delicate fabrics or antique furniture because of the possibility of sun damage.

"Cotton fabrics and hard-wearing wicker or rattan furniture are ideal for a relaxing room like this."

Natural fabrics and light colourways will suit your 'indoor/outdoor' room.

5:29pm Wednesday 26th March 2008

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