We are talking about an airy, glass enclosure that complements a structure’s more traditional brick facade. These designs and remodeling additions carry many potential advantages - including increasing value and desirablity of an upper end home. Conservatories running $85,000 in 2000 are already costing $125,000+ to replicate because of the demand and desire of upper-end homeowners to have one.

Real-estate agents generally say that, as an investment, a conservatory is a wise bet because it increases overall living space and can enhance a home’s curb appeal. Such artistic visions come with hefty price tags. Today conservatories would run as much as $175,000 to $230,000 — hardly the standard remodeling of America’s middle class.

In terms of actual resale value, owners in some parts of the country can expect to recoup 65.7 percent of the cost, according to Remodeling magazine’s annual report, published in December 2006. It found the average cost of building a conservatory or sunroom in New York is $51,517, while the average resale value is $33,825.

High- and low-end buyers

For those at the upper end, a conservatory can be one more way to customize an already stunning property. A conservatory is about the only thing you could do to add value to a home that costs $22,000,000 — now that is upper end!

Conservatory designs vary from the traditional glasshouses originally built to conserve plants during cold-weather months, to more modern geodesic domes. Many are octagonal, with sloped glass roofs and tall glass walls or windows. Sunrooms, a close relative of the conservatory, usually have a solid roof.

Today, these rooms with a view are more likely to be used as dens, studies or rooms for entertaining. The most popular location is just off the kitchen, says a Maryland-based company that designs conservatories for commercial and residential properties, including some in the Hamptons.

Industry experts say the trend has been building since the ’70s, when insulated glass became available, making the structures functional even during harsh Northeastern winters.

Some homeowners forgo custom designers in favor of manufactured conservatories, which can be far less expensive. Kits run from $25,000 to $150,000 and come in several standard designs. Buyers choose the type of glass, windows, insulation and a ventilation system, which, along with size, determine the price.