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How do I make the most of this conservatory?

27 replies

Chopchopbusybusyworkwork · 23/06/2023 18:23

I have a conservatory on the back of my house, it’s an ancient dark brown aluminium monstrosity. It leaks a bit in the winter (not from the top or around the glass/doors- there is a small two-brick high wall at the bottom and water seeps in through there) and the floor is tiled.

Also has lots of odd little hidey holes/ledges so the spiders webs are unbelievable. Think Miss Havershams dining room, even after a fortnight following a thorough clean and de-scuzz.

It currently has a white 4x4 ikea Kallax unit with boxes, a brown leather 2 seater sofa and a large wicker toy basket. It just looks so, so shit.

I can’t afford to replace it, or to dismantle it and make the footprint good. Any ideas on what I can do to make it usable or at least not shit?!

OP posts:
Caradonna · 25/06/2023 10:13

I don't think you say what way it faces - so is it unbearably hot in summer or quite shady. If hot tomato plants are a good idea.
You can buy some fake plants from ebay and mix with a couple of large real plants (expensive) so it looks more pleasant. Small garden chairs and table would be quite nice. You could lunch out there. An electric socket is useful so you can have a wifi speaer and listen to music/ radio/ podcasts.
I think the leak will be coming from where the windows meet the brick so try sealing it more.
If you vacuum the spiders and webs then spray holes etc wiht fly spray there should be less over time.
Is there a view, climbing roses, tubs with bright flowers nearby?

Chopchopbusybusyworkwork · 25/06/2023 10:16

Some great ideas here, thank you everyone. I like the idea of just going with the outdoor feel and plantifying it, maybe just doing a once a week swoop with a feather duster would keep the bugs at bay. At the moment I hardly go in there because it’s so depressing- however accepting there will be some cobwebs and doing my best with it sounds achievable!

It is too cold to use in the winter but I can still make it look pretty. Ive used a dehumidifier in there before which has been pretty effective with the ever present condensation but sealing the bricks properly is definitely needed to hel with the damp.

I will have a think about how to seal it against bugs, I think every single joint/glass panel probably needs it so it might be tricky!

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