The word "solarium" finds its origins in the Latin solaris, which means "of or relating to the sun". It makes sense then that the purpose of a solarium centers around sunlight and access to it. This room can serve many purposes and make for a fantastic addition to any home, so if you are interested in bringing a solarium into your space, read this guide to find out exactly how it works.

What Is a Solarium?

A solarium is a room that is made entirely of glass – this includes all four walls and the roof (similar to a greenhouse). It can either be connected to a house or a freestanding structure. The glass composition is designed to maximize the amount of natural sunlight that enters into the room, meaning you can enjoy basking in the sun no matter the season or weather outside. The clear walls also act as floor to ceiling windows that allow uninterrupted views of the outdoors, giving you the feeling that you are outside while remaining indoors.

Due to their glass structure (and typical lack of insulation), solariums are also typically subject to temperature fluctuations (more than any other room in the house), becoming extremely hot in summer or cold in winter. For this reason, you would do well to invest in cooling and heating options like a fan, evaporative cooler, or heater for your solarium.

What Is a Solarium Used For?

Whether you choose to add a solarium as a room onto your house or install a completely new construction in your yard, its purpose is to provide you with access to sunlight throughout the year, without having to be outdoors. With this foundation, solariums can be used in a variety of ways:

• An extra living space.
• A comfortable reading room.
• A cozy napping spot.
• A place to entertain guests.
• A beautiful dining area.
• The perfect place to watch sunsets or stargaze.
• Can even be used to grow houseplants.

Tip!

Due to the temperature changes and sun exposure, you want to decorate your solarium in durable and fade-resistant pieces that will withstand the conditions within. Try for comfortable patio conversation furniture which is designed to be outdoors, or Sunbrella® sofas which are upholstered in UV-resistant materials.

Pros and Cons of a Solarium

Here are a few pros and cons to help you decide whether you might or might not benefit from a solarium.

Pros

• Glass allows you to enjoy and make the most of outdoors no matter the season.
• No mosquitoes or other insects to bother you.
• Also functions as a good greenhouse for plants.
• Also additional living space.

Cons

• All glass can be high maintenance and keeping it clean inside and out can be a challenge.
• Minimal insulation.
• Not energy efficient and more expensive to run.
• Maintenance costs can be high.
• No privacy.

Solarium vs. Sunroom

You may hear the terms 'solarium' and 'sunroom' used interchangeably, and while they are similar in that they allow you to enjoy the sun year-round while indoors, they are not the same thing.

Solarium: A solarium is a completely glass room/structure that can be connected to or completely separate from your home. It is better suited to people looking to increase their time in the sun and also connect with nature.

Sunroom: A sunroom is closer to a living room, only with more windows. It can feature a skylight (but still uses the house's roof) as well as a door that opens up to the patio or garden, allowing you to connect with the exterior.

Tip!

If a sunroom appeals to you more, read our decorating guides for some guidance. 22 Sunroom Ideas to Brighten Up Your Home, Sunroom Decorating Ideas for All Seasons, and Top Picks for Decorating a Sunroom.

Now you know what a solarium is, you will see it is not as difficult to bring to you home as it may have initially seemed.

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