Modern twists revive ageing homes

17:07:20 30th July 2008

As the trend of improving the home rather than moving continues amid a tenth consecutive month of dropping house prices, many families are seeing a conservatory or lean-to as the best way to improve.

Rob Sterry, of Paul Archer Design, is quoted in The Independent as saying he believed even those in period properties should consider a modern glass extension.

"They work on any type of property, partly because they are frameless so it's as if it isn't there," he said.

"People are really moving away from the mock Victorian style.

"It's partly to do with the desire for more open-plan living and creating a year-round room."

Once it's installed, the owner should then think carefully about how best to decorate it and the surrounding area.

The Independent house and home section suggests the modern approach.

"If you've shelled out on a fabulous glass extension, the last thing you want to do is fill it with old fashioned rattan furniture," it suggests.

"Almost anything modern will go, but consider a Sedi tub chair or ticking cushions … to create a modern, more relaxed style."