The first step: Good planning
Are you dreaming of a conservatory where you can enjoy cozy reading hours in the snow or spend balmy summer evenings? Then careful planning is essential. Good preparation saves you trouble and hidden costs. From choosing the right location to materials, size, shading, and permits – all of this needs to be thought through.
The most important planning aspects
Location and cardinal direction
- North: Ideal for workspaces or your pet's retreat. Offers pleasant light without overheating. Thermal insulation is important.
- East: Perfect for morning sunlight and pleasant temperatures all day. Plants that need a lot of light but no direct sun thrive here.
- South: Utilizes the most solar energy, but can overheat in summer. Good ventilation and shading are essential.
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West: Offers afternoon sun and cool days. Ideal for relaxed evenings, but requires an additional heat source.

Materials and size
- Choose between standard dimensions and custom constructions. Materials like aluminum, wood, or plastic offer different advantages and disadvantages in terms of aesthetics and thermal insulation.
Shading and ventilation
- To avoid overheating, shading systems are important. Automatic solutions can be particularly effective here.
Permits
- Inform yourself early about necessary building permits to avoid legal problems.
Cost of a conservatory
The cost of a conservatory varies greatly. The Bundesverband Wintergarten e.V. (German Federal Conservatory Association) states prices of 1,500 to 2,000 euros per square meter for a residential conservatory made of aluminum in a simple design. For a 20 square meter conservatory, you should therefore expect 30,000 to 40,000 euros. Additional costs for the foundation, heating, and any necessary adjustments to the building services apply.
Note additional costs:
- Foundation: Must be professionally built and insulated.
- Heating: Investments are necessary if the existing system's capacity is insufficient.
- Administrative fees: For the building application and surveying of the extension.
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Operating costs: Heating and ventilation systems require energy, and a higher insurance premium is also incurred.

Checklist for your conservatory planning
- Set a budget and have a detailed cost estimate prepared by a specialist company.
- Plan things like shading, insect screens, or a pet door right from the start to avoid additional costs later.
Conservatory: An oasis of well-being for humans and animals
A conservatory can also be a paradise for your pets. Design it as an air-conditioned retreat with dog beds and cozy corners. A special recommendation is the petWALK pet door. This door offers an insulated and energy-efficient solution for your four-legged friend's access to the garden. It saves energy costs and fits perfectly into the insulation of your conservatory.
With thoughtful planning and the right materials, your dream of a conservatory will become a reality – a place of relaxation and joy for the whole family, including your beloved pets.
