Decor Ideas For Small Conservatories

We’ve put together some special decor ideas for small conservatories. After all, a lack of space needn’t stop you from enjoying this very special area of your house. Indeed, using a small conservatory as an extra living, dining or family relaxation room, is 100% possible. The trick is not to over stuff your conservatory so you have enough natural light and airiness to make the space seem bigger.

We’ve divided our advice into four topics:

1. A colour scheme for small conservatories

2. Furniture choices for limited spaces

3. Necessary accessories

4. The small conservatory layout

Basically, we’re here to help you make the right seating, accessory and decor decisions, so the lack of space is no longer an issue.

A colour scheme for small conservatories

Your first decision should relate to the colour scheme for your small conservatory. Our advice is to major on light colours for walls, window coverings and any sizeable pieces of furniture. Whites, neutrals and pastels reflect the light, and create an important feeling of space. This approach will also give you your ‘canvas’ on which to add tone and depth to your small conservatory colour scheme.

Selecting a light, sheer material for your curtains and blinds will help you ensure privacy and shade while maintaining a light, airy atmosphere. Then you can co-ordinate furniture and accessory colours in deeper tones and occasional pops of bright colour. For example, adding shades of green, patterned fabrics to reflect a natural world theme.

Furniture choices for limited spaces

Next, furniture. We’ve identified a number of brilliant ideas to help you turn your small conservatory into a big success. And remember, you don’t have to go down the traditional conservatory furniture route:

Multi-purpose furniture

When you're short of space, furniture with more than one use is a huge benefit. How about a coffee table with added storage or one that can be raised to become a modest dining table? Or, a storage bench can double as a window seat, and a footstool. When you want to entertain a couple of friends, an elegant console table with drawers will provide a useful surface for drinks and nibbles. At other times, it becomes your conservatory desk.

Furniture with legs

The idea is to make the most of a small space without it becoming cluttered. For this reason, we recommend furniture with legs rather than going for a solid shape. This allows the eye to see beyond the furniture, opening up the space instead of making it feel a bit confined.

The statement armchair or compact sofa

Another option is to create your own ‘me’ space where the focus is on one person (two at most). Here’s the complete kit for comfort and a winning atmosphere:

• Compact conservatory sofas, hanging chairs or a single statement cane armchair. In leather or velvet with a contrasting framework, for example.

• Cushions, a rug and a throw – in a neutral shade if the seating is a vibrant colour.

• A small side table big enough for your device and mug of tea.

• Lighting as a single floor lamp plus a hurricane lamp in the doorway.

• A couple of conservatory-friendly plants.

Necessary accessories

Accessories are the things that pull a space together. From soft items like cushions and throws, to amazing wall art, ornaments and stunning lighting. Accessories add colour, comfort and visual pleasure. Just dial back on quantity, and think about these three decor ideas for a small conservatory: mirrors, glassware and plants (we know you’ve got the cushion situation covered):

1. Mirrors

Careful selection and positioning of a mirror in a small conservatory will make it appear bigger and brighter. It’s a simple trick of the eye whereby the mirror reflects both light and objects so you really are seeing ‘more’. You want a reasonably large mirror without it being obtrusive. If your conservatory is constructed mostly of glass then try a floor mirror. And, if part of the structure of your conservatory includes an outside brick wall, a rustic, vintage-style mirror will work well.

2. Glassware

Glassware can also create the illusion of light and space. Whether it’s a vase or an ornament, the glass will refract and scatter light, creating a sparkly effect. Again, take care not to overdo it by having too much glassware. The design rule of three is a good guide. Arrange three pieces of glassware on the floor or a sideboard, and feel free to play with shapes, colours and sizes.

3. Plants

Plants are an obvious choice for any conservatory, bringing the outdoors inside whatever the weather. The vibrancy of the green works really well against a neutral backdrop. A couple of hanging plants or a single tall tree in a pot will add just enough colour and shape to a small conservatory. Choose your plants with care, making sure they can survive under glass and won’t encourage condensation. Alternatively, take a look at the stunning range of artificial plants available these days. No watering or trimming necessary.

The small conservatory layout

There aren’t many rules for arranging your conservatory furniture and accessories. The aforementioned advice to ‘keep it free from clutter’ always applies. Also the design rule of three to create interest whether it’s cushions or ornaments. Make sure the walkway to your outside space isn’t obstructed by stray tables and footstools.

If you’ve gone for a corner-shaped sofa or modular seating, it’ll be easy to make use of all your conservatory, such as the outer edges. Use a rug to ‘anchor’ your seating as it will create a focal point and help to define the whole space.

If it’s just you and your chair, that’s easy to arrange. Choose a spot near the light and the very best view, and keep everything on a small table by the side of you – snacks, drinks and a device or two.

Everything you need to furnish a small conservatory

A small conservatory is always going to be a useful space. It might be an extension off the kitchen or overspill from your living room. It could just be a calming retreat from the rest of the world. You can furnish it however you please – with or without traditional conservatory furniture. Just have one large piece of furniture then add a few conservatory accessories for comfort and effect. By the way, everything you need is all in one place – here at JB Furniture.

--------------------

Have further questions about different types of garden tables we stock? Our friendly, knowledgeable team are always on hand to help, just give us a call or visit one of our showrooms in Wakefield or Newcastle.