Conservatory can be broadly defined as a structure made of glass and metal and specifically availed to shelter rare plants. In the ancient era these were used to generate green house effect for exotic plants that need special care. Now a day instead of such large structure people prefer to have sunrooms or solarium in the home.

As per the era, following is the categorization of different types of conservatories:

Gregorian conservatories: These ancient forms of ‘plant houses’ reflect the Gregorian architecture and were a hot favorite between 1720 and 1840. The design stressed on symmetry in the structure and the use of glass was also less compared to the later and improved designs.

Victorian conservatories: These types of green houses reflected the Victorian architecture and were famed during the reign of Queen Victoria. These came in existence after the Gregorian style and were different than the earlier ones as these had asymmetrical structure, front facing gable, half timbering, textured wall surface as its prime features.

Edwardian conservatories: Following the Victorian era, there was a small phase called Edwardian era which had the conservatories that were simpler in design and form. These were painted in subtle colours and were considered as an edge to the Victorian arts and crafts style. Simple brick work, plain exteriors and subtle brick work defined the Edwardian form of conservatories.

Orangery conservatories: This form of greenhouses was particularly designed to grow orange trees in cold climatic areas. The Design had flat roofs with roof lanterns and with evolution; these were also availed to grow other plants than oranges.

These are the basic types of conservatories. If you are planning to create a green house for your home or farm house then, any of the designs can be thought of and you can design an ancient looking green house for your lovely plants. Think about it!