But where do you go from here? What practical matters do you need to consider and how do you go about setting your plans in motion.

We've taken advice from a range of industry professionals and put together this detailed guide to help turn your dreams of a conservatory into a sunshine-filled reality.

Statistics indicate that 90% of people who buy a conservatory do so with the assistance of a bank / building society loan, or else dip into their savings in order to fund its construction. The majority of experienced industry insiders suggest that building societies offer the lowest rates for borrowers and as such provide the best option in most cases.

Conservatory costs vary considerably according to the size, design and material chosen. Whatever you opt for - UPVc or hardwood, polycarbonate or glass roof - make sure you buy the best quality you can afford. With conservatories, as with so much in life, you get what you pay for. Quality products will serve you well over the years.

The first question you need to ask yourself here is "What will my conservatory be used for?" If you intend it to serve as a dining room, you would be wise to consider a wide structure that allows enough room for a table to be placed across the conservatory, offering attractive garden views to diners. 5m x 3.5m should be sufficient. A smaller 3m x 3m construction will leave plenty of room for some comfortable furniture, creating a relaxing environment in which to enjoy the Sunday papers or a leisurely post-work drink.

Try marking out the walls of your proposed conservatory to get a sense of just how big it will be. Use string or garden canes to create an outline and test combinations of furniture within this area. This exercise will also be useful for deciding upon related patio and landscaping arrangements.

Before calling or meeting representatives of a conservatory company, spend time browsing specialist brochures and websites such as ours. This will help you get an idea of the sorts of designs that are available, and hopefully provide inspiration for your own project. Bear in mind that your conservatory will have to blend in with the style, size and structure of the existing building. It is important that it does not dominate the rear of the house. Current design trends point to the growing popularity of Victorian, Gable, Hip-back, Crown Top and Combination conservatories. UPVC and hardwood structures remain equally sought-after.

There are advantages and disadvantages to both North and South-facing conservatories. Those facing North will offer welcome shade in the summer, but the lack of solar gain in the winter will likely lead to their being somewhat cold, thereby necessitating expensive insulation measures such as argon-filled seal units or extra-thick glass panels. Conversely, south-facing conservatories often suffer from excessive heat and brightness during the summer months. In this case, ventilation becomes all-important, with possible solutions including roof vents and low-level windows. Conservatory blinds can also be useful for cooling the room and preventing the sun's glare.

When deciding upon a design, focus on width rather than projection to consider how best to fit in all the furniture you would like and arrange it so as to take full advantage of the garden views. It's worth bearing in mind that the design of your conservatory will determine the position of the French doors. Conservatory designers tend to be very keen on doors positioned to the front of the structure. Certainly, these work particularly well, especially on a sunny day. However, there may be other factors you need to consider, such as access from a side path or patio. Side doors will also allow for furniture to be placed around the front of the conservatory.

Before hiring any contractor to work on your property, it is always important to inspect examples of previous work and consult a handful of former clients to get some assurance as to the firm's reliability and quality of workmanship. Find out whether the job was completed on time and on budget, and ask how the workmen conducted themselves on site. As with any construction or maintenance project, it is wise to get a variety of quotes prior to choosing a supplier.

A DIY conservatory is a more affordable proposition for those on a budget. If you have some aptitude for DIY, you may find that you could make a saving of thousands! The conservatory base is relatively easy to construct, while the conservatory itself will be delivered with comprehensive installation instructions. Additional post-sale support is usually available via a customer helpline.

Plastic laminates have traditionally been used for this purpose, although the current fashion is for real wooden flooring, whose appeal derives largely from its warmth and durability as well as its authentic, natural quality.

This is an aspect of buying a conservatory that should not be neglected under any circumstances. You should expect a guarantee to last for at least 10 years, covering the entire structure including any locks and handles etc. If your supplier is a smaller, less established firm, it is advisable to have the guarantee underwritten by an insurance company.