How to design your dream living space.
3 steps to designing the ideal living space
Define the purpose
Decide how youโll use the space e.g. dining or relaxing, so you can plan the size and extras like heating or plumbing.
Size and style
Choose a size and shape that fits your home and garden comfortably, giving you enough room to live in the space.
Design decisions
Source materials that match your homeโs exterior. Select a roof style and doors that complement the overall look.
Ideas for your new living space.
TOP STYLE TIPS
Think about flow
Locate your new space so it extends seamlessly from your main living area, typically the kitchen or lounge, with wide doors aligned to existing pathways for smooth movement throughout the home.
Explore different living space styles.
TOP STYLE TIPS
Choose the right size
Keep the overall footprint in proportion to your home and garden so the space feels balanced rather than overpowering. Itโs also worth planning practical details early, such as door positions, lighting and sockets, and how the new space will connect to the garden.
Picking the perfect feature door.
Find even more ideas & inspiration – download our Home Edit magazine.
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Stylesย we love
We love this style because it blends sleek, modern frames with a gable roof, so it feels like a natural extension of the home rather than a bolt-on conservatory.
The floor-to-ceiling glazing floods the space with light, while the tiled roof adds year-round comfort and reduces heat loss and creates a cosy interior.
Finished in anthracite grey with clean lines and a low brick base, itโs simple, stylish, and designed to suit both modern and traditional properties.
Dreaming of a new look for your home but unsure where to begin?
Our team of experts have been providing superior customer service to homeowners in your area for many years. If you have a project in mind, get in contact with 5 Star today!
Choose a roof youโll love.
Explore ideas in real life – find your inspiration in our showrooms.
Want more than just pictures? Visit our showrooms to see, touch and experience the possibilities for yourself, explore different styles and finishes up close, and get a true feel for how everything could look and work in your own home.
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Living Space Design FAQs
Thereโs lots more to tell you about living space design. Click through the FAQs to become an expert on it.
Whatโs the difference between a conservatory, an orangery, and an extension?
The main difference lies in the structure and how the space is used.
A conservatory is typically made with more glass, including a glazed roof and large windows, creating a bright, light-filled space that connects closely with the garden. An orangery features a more solid structure with brick pillars and a partially solid roof, often with a roof lantern, giving it the feel of a more substantial room.
A home extension is usually built with solid walls and a conventional roof, making it feel like a fully integrated part of the house. While all three add extra space, the right choice depends on the style you prefer and how you plan to use the room.
Can it be designed to match my existing home?
Yes, your new living space can be designed to complement your existing home. From the roof style and glazing to brickwork, colours and finishes, every element can be chosen to blend seamlessly with the character of your property. The goal is to create a space that feels like a natural extension of your home, rather than something added on later.
Can I use my new space as a kitchen, dining room, or lounge?
Yes, your new living space can be designed to suit a wide range of uses, including a kitchen, dining area or lounge. With the right layout, lighting and heating, it can become a natural extension of your homeโs main living areas.
Many homeowners choose to create flexible spaces that combine multiple functions, such as an open-plan kitchen and dining room or a relaxed lounge for everyday living and entertaining.
How disruptive is the build process?
The level of disruption will depend on the size and type of living space being built, but experienced installers work to keep disturbance to a minimum. Most of the construction takes place outside the home, and the build is carefully planned to keep your household running as normally as possible.
You can usually expect some noise and activity during the process, but a well-managed project will keep everything organised, tidy and completed within a clear timeframe.
How long does it take to install a living space?
Installation times can vary depending on the design and size of the project, but many living spaces can be completed within a few weeks once the groundwork is in place. A clear schedule will usually be provided before work begins so you know what to expect at each stage of the build.
Do I need planning permission for a new living space?
In many cases, living spaces such as conservatories or certain extensions can be built under permitted development, meaning formal planning permission may not be required. However, this depends on factors such as the size, height and position of the structure. Your installer or designer can advise you on the requirements for your property.
Can I control temperature and ventilation?
Yes, modern living spaces are designed with features that help you control both temperature and airflow. Opening windows, roof vents and optional ventilation systems allow fresh air to circulate, keeping the space comfortable.
Combined with energy-efficient glazing and insulated roofs, these features help regulate the temperature so the room stays pleasant throughout the year.
Are conservatories warm in winter and cool in summer?
Yes, modern conservatories are designed to be comfortable throughout the year. Advances in glazing, insulation and roofing systems help regulate temperature, keeping the space warmer in winter and cooler during the summer months.
With energy-efficient glass, improved ventilation and optional solid or hybrid roofs, todayโs conservatories can be enjoyed as a practical living space in every season.
How energy efficient are modern living spaces?
Modern living spaces are designed with energy efficiency in mind. High-performance glazing, insulated frames and advanced roofing systems help retain warmth in winter while preventing excessive heat in summer.
Together, these features create a comfortable environment throughout the year while helping to reduce heat loss and improve the overall efficiency of your home.
How much natural light will the space have?
Living spaces are designed to maximise natural light. Large glazed areas, roof windows or lanterns allow daylight to flow deep into the room, creating a bright and open feel throughout the day.
The exact amount of light will depend on the design you choose, but features like full-height glazing and glass roofs can help create a beautifully light-filled space that feels connected to the outdoors.
Explore more living space ideas.
Looking for more inspiration for your home? From modern extensions and conservatory upgrades to design tips and real customer transformations, youโll find everything you need to spark your imagination and plan your perfect living space.
Make it happen with flexible finance
Found the perfect idea? Spread the cost with flexible finance and start creating the home youโve been imagining, with a payment plan designed to suit your budget.
Request your free quote
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