From Conservatory to Contemporary Extension

Earlier this year we shared a project in Trinity, Edinburgh involving the replacement of an ageing conservatory with a new insulated rear extension.

The project is now nearing completion, and the transformation has been substantial.

The original conservatory suffered from many of the problems common to older glazed extensions — overheating in summer, heat loss in winter, and limited year-round usability. While visually connected to the garden, it never really functioned as a comfortable living space.

Rather than demolishing everything completely, the project retained the existing footprint, slab and lower masonry walls. This reduced waste, lowered costs and allowed the new extension to be constructed efficiently around the existing structure.

Early physical study models explored the roof geometry, daylight and relationship between solid walls and glazing. One of the key aims was to create a brighter, calmer and more insulated space without relying entirely on glass.

The new extension is now substantially complete. The insulated roof, carefully positioned rooflight and large sliding doors create a space that feels connected to both the garden and the coastal setting beyond, while remaining comfortable throughout the year.

The project demonstrates how replacing an underperforming conservatory with a properly insulated extension can dramatically improve both energy performance and everyday living.

We’ll share completed photographs once the final site works are complete.