A sunroom can be enjoyed all year round if it is well designed. Welcoming natural light inside is the most important feature of a successful sunroom, and this free resource should be maximized at every turn. Read on for advice on turning a sunroom into an inspirational space that enriches and enhances the home.
Light fantastic
Almost a feature in itself, natural light in a sunroom should be harnessed and exploited to the max. Do this by ensuring window openings are free and unrestricted by fussy treatments. Simple blinds or sleek solid wooden shutters that allow the control of light levels work best. On days of intense sunlight, it is important to be able to regulate the temperature in a sunroom, and this is easily done using adjustable interior shutters. Not only do they efficiently do the job, but they also look super stylish and are made from ethically sourced, FSC certified wood.
What is it for?
A sunroom’s design will be influenced by what it is used for. A quiet space for solitary reflection will have minimal seating, perhaps a reading nook and bookshelves, a music system and a recliner such as a classic chaise lounge or Eames chair from where to admire the exterior vistas.
Some choose to use a sunroom as a dining space, with a large table and set of chairs, a dresser for crockery and a side table for serving. It could be a space for socializing – comfortable sofas and soft furnishings will encourage lounging and relaxation. For enjoying wildlife or keeping an eye on children playing outside in the garden, the sunroom makes the perfect vantage point, with unobstructed windows and furniture kept minimalist for the best views.
A sunroom is the perfect place for the green-fingered to let their imaginations go wild. Experiment with growing all those tender plants that can’t cope with exterior conditions. A grape vine trailed across the ceiling, a lemon, fig or olive tree in a terracotta urn, pretty pink bougainvillea clambering up the walls or even vegetables and herbs overflowing from attractive stone planters – a sun room nurtures plants and trees that won’t survive outdoors, so why not invite some in for some special treatment?
Keep it pale and interesting
Strong sunshine can fade surfaces, so it is wise to select materials from a pale color palette. Textiles and soft furnishings in creams and pastels look stylish, increase the sense of space and will not be unduly affected by sun bleaching. Likewise, dark wood floors are often favored in sunrooms, but over time they can fade in sunlight. Consider paler, blonde woods with sunny shades that reflect light around the room. On walls, pastel shades work best. Try shades of white tinted with green, blue or yellow for a fresh and clean look.
Pretty and practical
A sunroom is such an asset to the home, so it is important to keep it looking fresh and pretty. Choosing materials that are hard wearing and nice looking ensures long lasting beauty. Natural products such as sisal flooring and cane furniture work well in sunrooms, but if there is direct access outside, it is wise to incorporate wipe clean flooring to avoid muddy mishaps.
A room filled with natural sunlight is one of life’s simplest pleasures. By applying these basic rules, turning any sun-filled space into an inspirational room is simple.
