Is a Garden Room Cheaper Than a Conservatory? Cost Comparison

Thinking of adding space but not sure if you want glass walls or garden vibes? Short answer: a garden room is usually cheaper than a conservatory—less glass, simpler build, more versatility. However, before you pick your perfect retreat, let’s break down why costs vary (and how to get the best value).

Beyond the Initial Price Tag

Here’s the catch: comparing a basic uPVC conservatory to a fully kitted-out, bespoke garden room isn’t a fair fight.

Sure, a budget conservatory might seem cheaper upfront. But if it turns into a greenhouse in summer and an icebox in winter, how much are you really saving?

A well-insulated garden room, on the other hand, can offer a more comfortable and versatile space—without the need for costly heating, cooling, or retrofitting later on.

Understanding the Cost Factors for Each

Let’s look at what goes into the cost of a garden room vs. a conservatory. Spoiler alert: it’s not just size that matters—it’s how you build and what you build it with.

Garden Room Costs (Typically £10,000 - £50,000+)

Base Models (Entry-Level): £10,000 - £15,000

Perfect for smaller spaces or basic use, often pre-fabricated with minimal finishes.

Mid-Range: £15,000 - £30,000

This is where most people land—good insulation, solid materials, electricity, and some personal touches.

Premium/Bespoke: £30,000 - £50,000+

Think luxury cladding, integrated plumbing, larger footprints, and a totally unique finish.

Key Cost Drivers:

Size: Bigger footprint = more materials and labour.
Materials & Insulation: Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs), PIR boards, and cedar cladding aren’t cheap—but they perform beautifully.
Glazing: Fancy a wall of bi-folds? Expect to pay more than for simple windows.
Foundations: Ground screws vs. concrete slabs can affect both cost and build time.
Electrics & Plumbing: A toilet or kitchenette? That’s a budget booster.
Finishes: Flooring, plastering, and internal features add up quickly.
Location & Installer: South East prices and premium contractors push budgets higher—but often with better results and warranties.

Conservatory Costs (Typically £10,000 - £65,000+)

Basic uPVC/Lean-To: £10,000 - £15,000

Simple, functional, and often built with polycarbonate roofs.

Mid-Range (Edwardian/Victorian): £15,000 - £35,000

Stylish uPVC or aluminium with better glazing and more floor space.

High-End/Orangeries: £35,000 - £65,000+

Custom builds, premium materials, integrated climate control—you’re nearing extension territory here.

Key Cost Drivers:

Style: A lean-to is cheapest. Orangeries with brick bases and solid roofs sit at the top.
Frame Material: uPVC is budget-friendly. Timber or aluminium costs more, but looks the part.
Roof Type: Polycarbonate is cheap, glass is pricier, and solid/tiled roofs hike the cost further.
Glazing: Self-cleaning, solar-control glass can cost a small fortune.
Integration: Knocking through house walls, blending finishes—all cost more.
Heating/Cooling: That much glass? You’ll need it.
Site Prep: Just like with garden rooms—access, trees, slopes… they all play a role.

Comparing the "True Cost" of Year-Round Usability

What good is an extension if you can’t actually enjoy it year-round?

Insulation & Energy Efficiency

Garden Rooms are typically built like proper rooms—with insulation in the floor, roof, and walls. That means stable temperatures, whether it’s freezing in February or scorching in July.

Conservatories, especially older ones, often struggle. Too hot, too cold, too noisy. Newer builds have improved a lot, but matching the performance of a well-insulated garden room often involves expensive upgrades—think insulated tiled roofs and triple glazing.

Running Costs

A conservatory with poor insulation is like a sieve for your heating budget. Add in a portable heater or air conditioning unit, and you’re looking at higher monthly bills.

A garden room, built to high thermal standards, tends to be more energy efficient—and therefore cheaper to maintain in the long run.

Planning Permission & Building Regulations Cost Implications

Red tape can trip up even the most exciting projects—so here’s what to expect.

Garden Rooms (Detached)

Most garden rooms fall under Permitted Development (PD), meaning you won’t need full planning permission.

Under 15m²? Often exempt from Building Regs.
Under 30m² and over 1m from a boundary? Still usually fine.
Want a loo or kitchenette? That’s when planning and regs kick in.

Avoiding these fees can save you hundreds to thousands in planning applications and consultant costs.

Conservatories (Attached)

Conservatories often benefit from Permitted Development, too—but there’s a catch.

Because they’re attached to the house, they always require Building Regulations approval. That means:

Structural checks
Insulation and glazing standards
Fire safety
Building Control fees

This adds to the overall cost—no matter how small or simple your conservatory is.

Value Added & Versatility

You’re not just spending money—you’re investing in your home. So how do these options stack up long-term?

Garden Rooms

Garden rooms shine when it comes to flexibility.

Office, gym, guest room, yoga studio—you name it. They’re also usually set apart from the main house, giving you privacy and focus.

With more people working remotely, buyers love the idea of an extra, independent room. That means a well-built garden room can add serious value to your home—often more than a basic conservatory.

Conservatories

Conservatories feel more like an extension of your living or dining space. They offer great light and garden views, and when done right, they feel open and airy.

But older conservatories—especially the kind that steam up in winter—can actually put buyers off. High-spec ones or orangeries? That’s another story—they often offer strong value and kerb appeal.

Conclusion: Budget for Performance and Usability

A Cheap Conservatory May Not Offer True Value

That £12k uPVC job might seem like a win—but if it’s uncomfortable 8 months of the year, how much are you really saving?

A Well-Built Garden Room Often Provides More for the Money

Especially when insulation, heating, comfort, and year-round use are part of the plan. It’s a smart, stylish, and surprisingly versatile solution.

Think About Use, Not Just Price

How will you use this space? If it’s for work, wellness, or long evenings with friends, choose the option that’ll actually deliver comfort all year long—not just in spring.

Final Thought

A conservatory may win on initial price. But for many UK homeowners, a garden room offers better value, better comfort, and fewer compromises. If you want a peaceful retreat that works in every season, the garden room might just be the better investment.

Ready to Create a Garden Room That’s Tailored to You?

We offer fully bespoke garden gym and spa room packages—from foundations to lighting, equipment to finishes. We partner with the UK’s best garden room suppliers and top gym equipment brands to deliver a space built around your wellness goals.

Call us today on 0330 0430 089
Or drop us a message at support@totalgymstore.co.uk
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