A solarium, also known as a glass room, is usually made of glass and aluminum profiles, among other things, and is constructed using glass and aluminum framing for a fully lit, non-traditional building. It is a relatively simple room whose main purpose is to enjoy the sun and be close to nature, and is a great option for adding light and living space to your home. Learn more about the difference between a solarium and a sunroom, and how to design this unique light-filled space.

What Is a Solarium?

A solarium is a design that combines an indoor space with a natural outdoor environment. It allows people to enjoy sunlight, air and natural beauty indoors while providing a comfortable living space.

A solarium can be used for multiple purposes. Some are used as extra living space or for entertaining. These spaces include cozy features such as lounging chairs, a sofa, or even a hammock to emulate an outdoor feeling. Others are a sunny dining space, including a dining table or a small breakfast table.

The sunroom can be used like a greenhouse to grow a variety of indoor plants because of the good light. You utilize the space according to your needs, and the key is to ensure sufficient natural light so that the interior is also filled with the brightness and warmth of the outdoors.

Types of Sunrooms

Solariums, sunrooms and conservatories, although sometimes spoken of interchangeably, are in fact all different forms of sunrooms!

Solarium

A solarium is a room with glass walls and ceiling.

Classic Sunroom

A proper sunroom, also known as a Florida room, has walls mostly made of windows. However, the frame and roof are made of traditional building materials that match the rest of the home.

sunroom ideas

A conservatory has glass walls and a ceiling but also features gutters, finials, or decorative molding. It's an ornate solarium.

sunny conservatory

A freestanding greenhouse with transparent walls and ceiling is another type of sunroom, although these structures are used solely for growing plants.  

Three- and Four-Season Sunrooms

Three- and four-season sunrooms are two different types of sunrooms defined by whether they have heating. If a room does not have heat, then it is a three-season sunroom designed to be used spring through fall. A four-season sunroom can be used all year long.

Considerations before adding a solarium

Before adding a solarium, consider the cost, ease of installation, and pros and cons of an all-glass space.

Cost

A solarium can cost anywhere from $30,000 to $75,000, which is a bit more than a three-season solarium, mainly because building materials are not cheap. But don't underestimate the return on investment of a solarium, which can be as high as 49%! In other words, if you build it, your home will be worth more at half the cost of extending it, so it's still a great deal.

Easy to install

While there are prefabricated and stand-alone kits available for DIY, custom solarium additions require hiring a professional to properly install the glass and ensure that the build is on a solid foundation. Before installation, be sure to check your local building codes for any requirements and permits needed.

Common Sizes

The solarium, ah, it's really not a certain size. Sometimes you might see one that's about 12 feet wide and 12 feet long, like a little square, kind of cozy; or, it could be 12 feet wide, but longer, 20 feet or so, so that it seems a little more spacious; and then there are those that might be 10 feet by 12 feet, tiny, but functional. Some solariums are built separately, like a little house, square; others, built along the back of the house, long, like a porch

Pros and Cons of a Solarium

The advantages of adding a solarium include bathing the room in sunlight while expanding the living space for relaxation, entertaining, and plantings. An all-glass structure can present problems with temperature control, making it difficult to use the space during both the hottest and coldest times of the year. Over time, the glass will require regular cleaning and repair of broken glass.

Tips for designing a solarium

With an all-glass design, a solarium may seem like a difficult room to decorate, but keep one key principle in mind: bring in as much sunlight as possible.

Minimize Decor: Clutter can make a room feel gloomy, so keep decor and furniture open and airy.

Consider small, simple furniture: Avoid tall or heavy furniture that blocks the view of the outside. Consider coffee tables and chairs or informal seating areas.

It's important to choose furnishings that are resistant to sunlight and heat, making sure they're built from sturdy, durable materials that can handle temperature changes and plenty of sunlight. This is because a solarium may feel a little colder or hotter than other areas inside when it's cold or hot outside. The hot sun can also discolor fabrics and wood.