Solariums & Conservatories in Knoxville, TN

What Is a Solarium?

A solarium — sometimes called a conservatory or glass room — is the most visually dramatic type of sunroom. Unlike standard sunrooms that feature a solid roof, solariums use glass panels for both the walls and the roof, creating an immersive, greenhouse-like space bathed in natural light from every angle.

Solariums are architectural statements. They’re the room your guests will talk about, the space where you’ll want to spend every morning, and the addition that transforms both the interior and exterior character of your home. Whether you envision a Victorian-style conservatory, a modern glass pavilion, or a curved cathedral design, ATC Sunrooms can bring it to life.

Our solariums use tempered safety glass, UV-filtering coatings, and engineered aluminum framing to create a space that’s as safe and functional as it is beautiful. We offer both three-season and all-season solarium configurations depending on your climate control needs.

Solarium Features & Options

• Glass roof system — Tempered, laminated safety glass with UV-filtering and solar-control coatings to manage heat and glare
• Structural aluminum framing — Engineered to support the glass roof while maintaining clean sight lines and maximum light
• Roof styles — Cathedral (peaked), studio (single-slope), curved, or custom configurations
• Ventilation — Ridge vents, operable roof panels, or powered exhaust fans to manage heat buildup on warm days
• Thermal options — Available with thermally broken frames and insulated glass for all-season use
• Shade systems — Interior motorized blinds or exterior shade cloth to control light and temperature
• Floor-to-ceiling glass walls — Maximum transparency with narrow frame profiles

Solarium vs. Standard Sunroom

The key difference is the roof. A standard sunroom has a solid, insulated roof — great for energy efficiency and consistent temperatures. A solarium replaces that solid roof with glass, creating a dramatically different experience:

Feature	Solarium / Conservatory	Standard Sunroom
Roof	Glass — light from above	Solid — insulated
Light level	Maximum — all angles	High — from walls only
Heat management	Requires shade/ventilation systems	Easier to regulate
Architectural impact	Dramatic, statement piece	Blends with home
Best for	Plants, entertaining, visual impact	General living space
Cost range	$30,000 – $90,000+	$15,000 – $70,000

Solarium Cost in Knoxville

Solariums and conservatories in the Knoxville area typically range from $30,000 to $90,000+. The higher cost compared to standard sunrooms reflects the engineering requirements of a glass roof system, specialized framing, and premium materials.

Key cost factors include roof configuration (flat vs. cathedral vs. curved), glass specifications (single-pane vs. insulated, tinted vs. clear), room size, thermal upgrades for year-round use, and shade system integration.

For an accurate estimate, schedule a free in-home consultation. We’ll discuss your vision, evaluate your home’s structure, and provide detailed pricing. See our sunroom cost guide for more information.

Popular Uses for Solariums

• Plant conservatory — The glass roof provides ideal growing conditions for tropical plants, orchids, herbs, and indoor gardens
• Dining room — Create an unforgettable dining experience under the stars or bathed in morning light
• Entertaining space — Solariums make a stunning setting for parties, gatherings, and celebrations
• Spa or hot tub room — Glass walls and ceiling create a resort-like atmosphere
• Art studio — Natural light from all angles is ideal for painting, photography, and creative work
• Reading retreat — There’s nothing quite like reading in a glass room during a rainstorm