A glazed bioclimatic pergola has a motorised louvre roof that opens and closes, with the sides closed by glass or zip screens; a conservatory has a fixed glass roof. Choose the pergola if you want an openable roof, the conservatory if you want constant light and a fully enclosed room.
In short
What people search for as a "glazed bioclimatic pergola" is really two parts: a motorised aluminium louvre roof (bioclimatic pergola) and side closures such as guillotine glass, sliding glass or zip screens. A conservatory is a permanent structure with a fixed glass roof and glass walls on an aluminium frame.
As an Albert Genau authorised manufacturing dealer, SkyArt Group builds and installs both; we explain the brand in our Albert Genau post.
Comparison
| Glazed bioclimatic pergola | Conservatory | |
|---|---|---|
| Roof | Louvres rotate; open lets sun and air in, closed channels rain into gutters | Fixed glass roof; light always enters |
| Sides | Guillotine glass, sliding glass or zip screens | Guillotine, double-glazed sliding or folding glass |
| Summer heat | Louvres give shade and ventilation | Glass roofs can overheat; a Sky Zip roof screen solves it |
| Winter humidity | Condensation can occur in a closed space; dehumidifying or air-conditioning needed | Condensation is the most common issue; heat with a dehumidifier or air-conditioning |
| Area | At most 36 m² per unit | At least 15 m²; smaller areas are priced as 15 m² |
Which to choose
- You want to see the sky and open the roof on summer nights: bioclimatic pergola.
- You want a bright all-winter room for plants: conservatory.
- If the sides of a pergola are fully glazed the space becomes largely enclosed, so check permissions first.
Permissions
Whether a glazed structure counts as an enclosed area or affects floor-area ratio depends on local regulations. In apartment buildings the management plan and owners' approval may be needed; for houses, the municipality. We do not give legal rulings; see our permit guide and ask your municipality.
Also read about glass roof alternatives and condensation. Book a free survey and we will assess your terrace together.
