A Custom Conservatory and Deck in Hamilton, MA
The answer came in the form of a gorgeous conservatory with a custom glass roof system and corner fireplace. Located to the side of the home, this conservatory annexes directly to the interior for convenient access, and connects to a new exterior deck which Sunspace designed and built. The glass roof system is framed in mahogany and uses high-performance, insulated, argon gas-filled glass units to achieve top solar and thermal performance. Windows and doors are Andersen 400-series; there are eleven operable windows. Air conditioning and a heating system ensure that the interior environment remains comfortable all year. And the corner fireplace gives the space a rustic, inviting feeling that is perfect for relaxation or entertainment.
Additional features include beautiful slate flooring with embedded heat mats. The floor heat controls ensure that there won’t be any frosty winter mornings where the chill of the slate gets in the way of enjoying the space. Let’s take a look at the design-build process which led to the final product:
A typical back deck in desperate need of repair.
This will be totally replaced.
We begin with basic concept sketches.
These sketches set the stage for the next step.
After the concept sketches, we create a set of computer-generated design elevations.
These are submitted to our clients for review.
We ultimately provide a full set of engineered drawings for the project.
These drawings are ready to submit for building permits.
We’re preparing to remove the existing deck and railings in order to make way for the new conservatory.
New framing begins for the conservatory.
A new gable roof is added for additional height.
Work on the new corner fireplace begins.
Meanwhile, the shop team begins to mill the wood for the new glass conservatory roof.
Preparatory work on the copper flashing and caps is completed.
These beauties are now ready for installation!
Back at the job site, the ridge and kingpost are in place.
The first solid mahogany hip rafter is installed.
The mahogany roof system begins to take shape.
The roof frame is complete.
We’re now ready to place the roof system’s glass.
Hours later, the roof’s glass installation is just about finished.
We’re using safety glass on the exterior and laminated safety glass on the interior.
A view from the unfinished interior through the high-performance insulated glass units.
These units are 1 ⅛” thick with a ⅜” argon gas-filled space.
Window installation begins: Andersen’s 400 high-performance series.
Casement style windows in the upper section with fixed units below.
Work on the exterior trim begins.
The roof receives finishing touches and the window installation concludes.
An interior view showing our solid conventional wall framing and LVL headers.
Our frames are rock solid and allows for the use of windows from the world’s top manufacturers.
Common wall surfaces are ready for a plaster finish.
Next we apply mesh to the joints and edge protection for the fireplace.
Corner bead is installed on all edges before plaster is applied.
Plaster work is complete.
We’re now ready for the interior woodwork to begin.
Light levels are great!
Each of these windows will be trimmed from floor to ceiling.
With the plaster complete and the windows trimmed, it’s time to paint!
A beautiful view to the exterior.
French doors lead to the new exterior deck area.
Additional French doors connect to the residence’s existing dining room.
A look at the new entry landing and stairway.
The exterior is ready for painting.
An exterior look at the new deck and French doors.
The decking is IPE, railings and balusters are cedar, trim is composite.
Post caps are cedar with copper tops.
This beautiful conservatory is now ready for use.
A look at that gorgeous glass roof system framed in solid mahogany.
Air conditioning, heating, and slate flooring with built-in mat heating ensure year-round comfort.
A look at the finished exterior.