Florida rooms are spaces either added as a room or as an attachment to a house. Sometimes referred to as a sun room or conservatory, the Florida room features a framework composed of plate glass panels or multiple window casings and frames. The structure of the room allows a great deal of natural sunlight into the space, making it an ideal location for houseplants as well as creating a warm and inviting space to read or relax.
The general concept of a room that allows a great deal of natural light to enter the space is not uncommon. While the space is called many different names around the world, it is rare to find a country that does not have some architectural variation on this simple theme. Along with being known as a sun room or conservatory, Florida rooms are sometimes referred to as solariums or patio rooms. The actual Florida room definition and nickname are most commonly employed in the southern region of the United States.
When asked to define just what a Florida room is, most people will immediately think of a space that features at least one wall that is composed of plate glass or a series of glass window panes set into a framework. The presence of so much clear glass makes it possible to enjoy the view of the outside world while being protected from wind, rain, heat, or other adverse weather conditions. At the same time, the idea of potted plants also comes to mind when thinking of Florida rooms, accompanied with comfortable wicker furniture and soft cushions for the seats and backs of the chairs and lounges.
Along with plenty of clear glass for one or more walls, it is not unusual for Florida rooms to also include a skylight. This allows even more natural light to enter the space, enhancing the warm and cozy feel of the room. Many people find that a sun room of this type is an ideal way to enjoy the benefits of natural sunlight even when the temperature outside is extremely cold and uninviting, thus helping to avoid the potential for getting a case of the blues during the winter months.
For the most part, Florida room additions are normally added to existing structures by placing the space on the back side of the home. This allows for a greater amount of privacy from the street while still providing the ability to enjoy the sun and maintain healthy plants. However, people sometimes choose to attach a Florida room addition on the side of the home, especially if the view from that location is particularly striking.
In order to keep Florida rooms warm and cozy even in winter weather, it is not unusual for double-paned glass to be used in the construction. The double panes effectively create a situation where the majority of the colder temperature is absorbed by the outer set of panes, while the inner set of panes tend to absorb more of the actual room temperature. This doubling of panes does not impair the view at all, and can make a huge difference when it comes to controlling the temperature within the space.
In recent years, the creation of drapery panels especially for Florida rooms have come into common use around the world. The drapes are normally lined to provide additional protection from the outside climate, and make it possible to close off the space to the outside world when desired. Typically, the panels are lined and treated so they resist fading from constant exposure to sunlight.
In conclusion, Florida rooms are popular in the southern region of the United States, and are known for their tall glass panels and comfortable furnishings. They provide a warm and inviting space for people to relax and enjoy the natural sunlight, even in cold weather. These rooms can be found attached to homes in various locations, and are often designed with double-paned glass and lined drapes for added comfort and protection from the elements. With their growing popularity, it is no surprise that many restaurants in Fort Lauderdale have incorporated Florida rooms into their designs, offering a unique dining experience with beautiful views of the outside world.