Build a conservatory in the UK. When you build a conservatory in the UK it should ideally face towards the south and should not be overshadowed. Use double glazing and insulation in the floor and side walls to raise the average temperature and lengthen the time in which the conservatory can be used without heating. Walls, windows and doors adjoining the conservatory should be insulated to same standard as the rest of the conservatory. Lead your conservatory off a room that you use a lot, like your kitchen or living room. Don't let the shape of your house be disturbed by your design. Try to match the construction materials and colours with the ones used for your home. Take interesting details like bargeboards and unusually shaped windows into your design. When you build a conservatory in the UK, let it completment period features, rather than clash, hide, or cause them to be removed. The more money you spend on the right insulation and roofing and glazing systems, the less you'll end up spending on heating and cooling systems. While making a plan, add sufficient funding for extras such as blinds, furniture and heating. Today, ventilation, shading and solar control materials help control overheating and heat sensitive controls can automatically respond to rising or falling temperatures. Double-glazed, white uPVC is popular, inexpensive, a conserver of heat, easy to maintain and durable. Aluminium is strong with a slight risk of condensation in high humidity. Hardwoods are appealing but can be expensive and difficult to mantain. If you want to self build a conservatory in the UK: Buy where the trade buys, and not the DIY chains. Screwfix Direct is a good starting point for screws, fixings etc. Make sure you have the right tools for the job Get help from friends who know parts of the job, like concreting or plumbing. And hire professional help when you really need it. Don't cut back on cavity insulation and foundation. You'll regret it in the long run.