Furnish the conservatory lightly

A conservatory should be a place to both relax and entertain, according to UKTV Homes.

Natural colours should be used for floors, blinds and accessories the help enjoy the room throughout the year.

Larger conservatories can accommodate a dining table and light-weight furniture will add to the outdoor feeling and help make it the ideal place to have company.

"Keep materials natural: bamboo, wood, and wrought iron are the obvious choice for furniture; natural slate or terracotta on the floor with scatter rugs that are warm underfoot;" says the UKTV Homes website.

"Conservatory roof blinds for privacy and to keep the room cool in summer and warm in winter; and plenty of leafy palms for a relaxed, tropical look."

"The blinds are a major investment, but anyone who has a conservatory will tell you that its well worth it."

While a conservatory can be lovely and warm when its cold outside, it is worth bearing in mind how hot it can get and installing blinds or some sort of shade can help control temperatures.