A traditional veranda is a beautiful blend of classic elegance and modern durability. Inspired by the ornate designs of the Victorian era, these structures enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home while offering a versatile outdoor living space. The combination of intricate craftsmanship and modern materials ensures that traditional verandas stand the test of time, both in style and function.
Traditional verandas are instantly recognisable thanks to their ornamental design features. The hallmark of these verandas is the decorative gallows brackets and rounded, inset posts, which evoke a sense of history and craftsmanship. The gallows brackets not only provide structural support but also serve as decorative elements, adding sophistication to the overall design. The posts are gently rounded, giving the structure a warm, inviting feel that sets it apart from the sharper, more modern designs of contemporary outdoor structures.
These verandas are particularly suited to period properties but are equally fitting for modern homes, where they can add a timeless elegance without overwhelming the design of the property. The period-style bollard bases at the foot of the posts are another defining feature, grounding the structure and reinforcing its vintage charm.
While the design of a traditional veranda hearkens back to a bygone era, its construction uses modern materials that ensure durability and low maintenance. The frame is made from high-quality aluminium, which is naturally resistant to rust, corrosion, and weathering. This makes it ideal for the unpredictable UK climate, where wooden alternatives may require constant upkeep. Unlike wood, which can warp, rot, or require regular treatment, aluminium is a long-lasting solution that keeps the veranda looking pristine without the need for frequent maintenance.
The glass roof provides an additional layer of protection from the elements, allowing the space to be used throughout the year. Toughened glass is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, from rain to snow, and can even handle hail. This means that your veranda will remain functional and aesthetically pleasing regardless of the season. The low-maintenance nature of both the glass and the aluminium frame ensures that your veranda stays in excellent condition with minimal effort.
Traditional verandas may have a fixed aesthetic due to the design of the posts and brackets, but there are still several ways to customise the space. The most prominent customisation option is the colour of the frame, which can be selected to complement your existing outdoor décor or to create a striking contrast. Whether you prefer a subtle shade or a bold pop of colour, this choice can transform the look and feel of your veranda.
While the ornamental design limits some modern features, such as integrated LED lighting, this is part of what makes the traditional veranda so special. The intricate detailing of the posts and brackets creates a visual impact that doesn’t require additional modern elements to stand out. However, if more protection from the wind is needed, fixed glass side walls can be added to shield the area without compromising the veranda’s classic aesthetic.
A traditional veranda offers much more than just an attractive feature for your home. It extends your living space into the outdoors, creating a sheltered area that can be used for dining, entertaining, or simply relaxing. The glass roof offers protection from the sun and rain, making it a versatile area for outdoor use in any weather. Whether you’re hosting a garden party or enjoying a quiet moment with a book, the veranda becomes an extension of your home that can be used year-round.
The open design of the veranda allows you to feel connected to the outdoors while being protected from the elements. The glass roof provides ample natural light, creating a bright and airy environment. For additional shelter, you can choose to add fixed glass side walls, offering protection from wind or rain without encroaching on the space’s openness.
Before deciding on a traditional veranda, it’s important to consider its design limitations. While the ornamental posts and gallows brackets are integral to the aesthetic, they do restrict certain modern features, such as LED lighting or full glass walls. These limitations are part of the traditional appeal and are not drawbacks for those who appreciate the beauty of Victorian-inspired design. However, if you’re looking for a fully enclosed outdoor room with extensive customisation options, a traditional veranda may not be the ideal choice.
The veranda’s typical configuration, with a glass roof and open sides, works best for those who want to maintain a sense of openness while still enjoying protection from the weather. However, it is possible to add fixed glass side walls for additional shelter, making it a flexible choice for varying weather conditions.
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Interested in examples of our verandas and glass rooms? See below a selection of photos from some of our recent projects! Here’s a few image from different projects that showcase what we’ve discussed:
Got questions? Here are a few of our most frequently asked!
Can I add LED lighting to a traditional veranda?
While the decorative gallows brackets and ornamental posts are integral to the traditional design of the veranda, they can limit some modern customisations, such as integrated LED lighting. The posts’ thinner, circular profile and the intricate detailing of the structure are designed to highlight the elegance of the veranda, making it less suited to the addition of such features. However, you can still achieve lighting effects by placing lights along the frame or using external lighting sources, ensuring the veranda’s aesthetic remains intact.
Are traditional verandas suitable for year-round use?
Yes, traditional verandas are designed for year-round use. The glass roof provides shelter from rain and UV rays, allowing you to enjoy the outdoor space throughout all seasons. The toughened glass used in the roof can withstand harsh weather conditions, and the aluminium frame resists rust and weathering, making the veranda a durable and low-maintenance option for all-year-round enjoyment.
Can a traditional veranda be fully enclosed?
Traditional verandas are typically designed with an open front, offering a sense of connection with the outdoors. While fully enclosing the space with glass walls may not be possible due to the design limitations of the posts and gallows brackets, you can add fixed glass side walls for additional shelter. This allows you to protect the veranda from wind and rain while maintaining the classic open feel that is central to its design.
How do traditional verandas compare to conservatories?
While both verandas and conservatories offer additional living space, they are different in terms of design and function. Conservatories tend to be fully enclosed, offering a more controlled environment, whereas traditional verandas are open structures with a glass roof, providing a more airy and open feel. Verandas are ideal for those who want an outdoor space that remains connected to nature, whereas conservatories are better suited for homeowners looking for a more enclosed, temperature-controlled space.
Can traditional verandas be used for commercial purposes?
Yes, traditional verandas are suitable for commercial use, such as cafes, restaurants, or shops, where outdoor seating is needed. The glass roof offers shelter from the elements, allowing businesses to offer an outdoor experience regardless of the weather. The classic design of the veranda can also enhance the aesthetic appeal of a commercial property, attracting customers with its charm and elegance.
How long does it take to install a traditional veranda?
The installation time for a traditional veranda typically varies depending on the size and complexity of the project. On average, installation can take anywhere from 2 to 4 days. Customisation options, such as adding fixed glass side walls or colour choices, may affect the timeline. It’s always a good idea to consult with the installer for a more specific estimate based on your particular requirements.