Cambridge Conservatory is a residential glazed addition designed to extend a historic property’s living space year-round without altering the home’s heritage character. The structure combines a curved ridge skylight with full-height wall glazing on three exposures, allowing morning light from the east, midday warmth from the south, and a sunset orientation to the west.

Project Scope

Crystal Structures designed, fabricated, and oversaw installation of the custom conservatory frame and glazing assembly. Scope included engineered aluminum framing in a heritage-appropriate finish, double-glazed insulated units across the wall sections, and laminated insulated glass at the skylight ridge for snow load.

Materials & Engineering

Powder-coated aluminum framing in a custom color match to the existing exterior trim. Sealed insulated glass units, dual low-E coatings selected for cold-climate heat retention. Ridge glazing engineered for full ground snow load plus drift accumulation. Concealed condensation management with integrated thermal break.

Installation

Installed on a previously prepared masonry foundation. On-site assembly proceeded over approximately three weeks with a four-person crew. The work was scheduled to minimize disruption to the occupied residence.

Location & Climate

Climate considerations included winter heating demand, snow load on the ridge, and avoidance of summer overheating on the south exposure. Glass selections were calibrated for net heating-season gain while limiting summer cooling load.

Project Outcome

The finished conservatory delivers a daylit, climate-conditioned living space that integrates with the original architecture rather than reading as a contemporary addition. The owners use the space across all four seasons.

Features & Benefits

Our Cambridge Conservatory is constructed with thermally-broken structural aluminum, with absolutely NO WOOD, allowing you years and years of worry-free enjoyment. Sizes are subject to change without notice. 

• Can be designed with or without glazed end walls.
• All aluminum frame, no rust!
• Thermally enhanced frames reduce heat/cold transfer
• Stainless steel fasteners, no rust
•  4 weepage channels in every rafter, drains condensation
• Seamless snap-in pressure plate covers, no unsightly bolts that create dirt trails
• Built-in shade tracks designed for the Comfort Glide shade system
• The built-in accessory track allows for easy hanging of lightweight articles without drilling holes in the frame
• 10-year frame finish and glass warranty

Options:

Standard Frame finishes  include:

• White or bronze paint (AAMA 2605 on exterior members)
• Clear or bronze anodized (class I)
• Optional frame finishes – Custom paint and several anodized colors

Call 1-800-222-1598 for design assistance or complete the form on the right.

Related Capabilities

Explore Crystal Structures’ solariums, conservatories, and glazed structures, or compare with our Brighton Conservatory design.