Improving your Devon home: Planning a conservatory in Exeter

A conservatory in Exeter is an excellent way to gain extra living space and bring more natural light into your home. It can work as a dining room, a garden room or simply a relaxing place to enjoy the view and many conservatories can be built without planning permission.

Exeter has a wonderful mix of homes, from period properties near the city centre to modern new-builds on the outskirts. If you’ve been wishing for more room to relax or work from home, a new conservatory could be the answer. Below, we cover why conservatories suit local homes, how planning rules work, which styles to consider and how to find an installer you can trust.

Why a conservatory suits Exeter homes

Extra living space that fits around you

If your home feels a little short on space downstairs, a conservatory gives you the extra space you need and connects the rear rooms of your home to the garden area. Many families use theirs as a dining room, playroom or home office. One of our customers described their finished conservatory as “a year round, fully useable family space”.

Added value when you come to sell

Nationwide research found that increasing your home’s floor print by 10% could raise its value by up to 5%, so a conservatory can be a worthwhile investment.

Do you need planning permission for a conservatory in Exeter?

In many cases, you won’t. Most conservatories count as permitted development, which means they can be built without planning permission if they stay within certain size and height limits. Homes in a conservation area, listed buildings and flats have different rules, so it’s worth checking first.

The main size limits to know

According to the Planning Portal, a rear conservatory is usually permitted development if:

• it extends no more than 3 metres beyond the back wall of the original house, or 4 metres for a detached home
• it’s no taller than 4 metres and no higher than the eaves or roof ridge of your house
• it covers no more than half of the land around the original house, including sheds and any earlier extensions

If you’re hoping for something larger, a conservatory of up to 6 metres, or 8 metres for a detached home, may still be possible if you apply to the council for prior approval first.

Rules that often catch homeowners out

Exeter has several conservation areas where extra rules apply. For example, a conservatory on the side of your house will need planning permission there. Some homes have also had their development rights removed by the council, which many people only discover once they start planning.

The good news is that you won’t need to work through this alone. Our team handles planning applications where needed and makes sure every conservatory we install meets building regulations.

Choosing a style to suit Devon architecture

When choosing a conservatory, Exeter homeowners can pick from a variety of styles. We offer each one in uPVC or aluminium with energy-efficient glass, and finishes range from classic white to woodgrain effects. Knowing about the different types of conservatory makes it easier to find the right one for your home. At your free design consultation, we’ll also create drawings so you can see how your new conservatory design would look.

Victorian conservatories

If you love the look of a traditional conservatory, the Victorian is a highly popular option. Its main features are a pitched, multifaceted roof with a decorative ridge and a rounded front made up of three or five facets. This shape gives you wide views of the garden and a new Victorian conservatory looks just good on a modern house as on a traditional one.

Edwardian conservatories

The Edwardian design has a rectangular shape with a flat front, which makes the most of your floor space. Its clean lines give it a contemporary look that’s an ideal match for many new-builds and a woodgrain finish can help it blend in with an older home.

Gable end conservatories

A gable end conservatory has an upright front roof rather than a sloping one, which adds a sense of height and lets in plenty of light. Its impressive look makes it an ideal choice for traditional properties.

Lean-to conservatories

If you’d like a more subtle conservatory at an affordable price, a lean-to is a great choice. Its roof leans gently against the house, which suits modest homes, cottages and bungalows, or homes with limited space.

Bespoke designs

If none of these styles quite suite your home, a bespoke design such as a P-shape or T-shape can wrap around corners, giving you a larger conservatory space and making the most of awkward areas.

Whichever style you choose, you can finish it with a glass, tiled or lantern roof and pick from a variety of door options, including bifold and patio doors.

Finding a reliable conservatory installer in Exeter

A good installer will make your project feel stress-free. Here’s what to look for:

• Trade membership: belonging to an organisation like the Consumer Protection Association gives extra peace of mind.
• Planning support: help with planning permission and building regulations saves you time and worry.
• Clear design process: design drawings let you see your conservatory before work begins.
• Reliable guarantee: an insurance-backed guarantee protects your investment.
• Local reviews: feedback from homeowners near you is a great sign of quality work.

At Renaissance Conservatories, we’re proud to tick every one of these boxes.

Planning your conservatory with Renaissance Conservatories

Based in Newton Abbot, just a short drive away, we know Exeter well and have helped homeowners across South Devon for many years. As a Guardian Approved Installer, we’ll guide you every step of the way, from design to installation.

If you’re dreaming of a brighter home with more space to enjoy, we’d love to help you find a conservatory that suits your property and the way you live. Book a free design consultation or request a FREE quote today. You can also call us on 01626 333 393 or email info@renaissanceconservatories.co.uk.