Need more space for entertaining over Christmas? Just use the conservatory!

There is no getting away from the fact – Christmas is very nearly upon us. We all find ourselves entertaining family and friends at some point over the festive period, and trying to prepare what is often an already chaotic family home into a space that is ready for an influx of guests, can be a challenging proposition.

This is where your conservatory can really come into its own. It is incredible how many households all but forget that their conservatory exists during the winter months, but with the right preparation, it can be the perfect entertaining space.

Conservatory roof insulation

You can never be sure what the English climate is going to throw at you in late December, but whether there is a snow-covered winter wonderland, torrential rain or even an Indian summer, there is nothing quite like standing in the comfort of a warm and cosy conservatory watching the elements at work.

There is a common misconception that a conservatory is going to be too cold for winter use, but with some basic measures in place, this does not have to be the case. The first step is to ensure that your conservatory is properly insulated. Conservatory roof insulation will have a really dramatic effect.

Cosy furnishings

Floral patterns and pastel shades are great in the summer months, but they do not really cast a cosy Christmassy spell. Yet you would be surprised at the transformation that can be affected by some simple changes to the soft furnishings in your conservatory.

A thick, warm rug underfoot will help insulate the room further and make the space feel cosier. Also, consider changing the cushion covers to warm, rich, Christmassy shades. Finally, some throws or blankets liberally distributed will allow you and your guests to curl up, toasty warm, as you survey the winter landscape over glasses of mulled wine.

Of course, if you have conservatory roof insulation, then your conservatory will already be warm and cosy.

Decorate to impress

The typical conservatory has more height available than your living room, and with the vaulted ceiling that your conservatory roof insulation has created you can make the most of all that space to really push the boat out with the Christmas decorations this year. A conservatory is the ideal spot for the largest Christmas tree you have ever had. There is also plenty of scope for traditional tinsel, stars and other decorations across the roof space. Let your imagination run riot, and transform your conservatory into a Christmas wonderland!

Lights

Lighting plays a crucial role in creating the right atmosphere. If it is cloudy and overcast outside, the right lighting can provide the perfect contrast – together with an insulated conservatory ceiling, to make your conservatory a haven of warmth and Christmas cheer. Fairy lights are an absolute must for the tree, but also look great adorning window frames and reflecting in the glass. Also, consider using tea lights around the conservatory to give the room a romantic glow.

Dining

Of course, when you are entertaining guests over Christmas, one of the main things on your mind will be the catering arrangements. Whether you are planning a full-on traditional Christmas dinner or a more informal buffet-style dining option, getting everything set out in the conservatory means you will not be pushed for space in the rest of the home. Just resist the temptation to overdo the decorations on the table itself – here, the food should be the centrepiece!

Plan ahead

Christmas is a time to relax and enjoy time with your loved ones, but for many, all the entertaining can make it something of an ordeal. The trick is to plan ahead, and have as much sorted out in advance as possible. Now is the time to get the conservatory ready for the season ahead. Have fun, and enjoy your cosy Christmas!