Orangeries: A Comprehensive Guide to Prices and Styles
Orangeries combine the light and style of a conservatory with the space and permanency of a brick extension. For many years, conservatories were one of the most popular home improvements property owners could make. However, now, orangeries are starting to storm ahead, offering all of the benefits of a conservatory without any of the drawbacks.

Modern Orangery Design
Let’s start by taking a look in more detail at the different design features of a modern orangery.
More Brickwork
An orangery is much more like an extension compared to a conservatory and because it’s made of brick, it can be much warmer. If plenty of natural light is your priority, then your orangery can be constructed with minimal brickwork. Both conservatories and orangeries have brickwork sections as part of their supporting side structure but they are much more prominent in an orangery.
Roof Lanterns
A modern orangery features a lantern-style roof which is vastly different to the often sloping roof of a conservatory. A conservatory has a glazed roof which connects directly to the side-framing, whereas an orangery has a flat roof with a glass lantern. An orangery roof can be customised to suit your home in various colours and material.
Stylish Roof Lights
An bespoke orangery gives you the option to have sky lights coming from the roof and along the wall maximising natural light just like a glass roof.
Greater Privacy
Because of their brick construction, orangeries offer greater privacy than a glass conservatory.
Luxury Space
Traditional orangeries are an elegant and sophisticated extension for any home. Constructed in a stunning combination of brick and glass, this is both a luxury and a practical space for you to enjoy in every season.
Versatile Space
Because of its permanent construction style, a new orangery is a stylish space suitable for a kitchen extension, a dining or living area, or even a guest bedroom. It provides year round accommodation.
Benefits
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What To Take Into Account With A New Orangery
There are many factors to consider before the construction of a new orangery. Take a look at our list to help guide your decision-making.
- What will you use the new space for?
- Are you going to use the extension to create a more open plan and seamless living space or will it be a completely separate room?
- What type of doors and windows do you want?
- How will you access the garden?
- Are there any trees adjacent to the area which may impact the light and roof lantern?
Orangery Prices
| Orangery Size (mm) | Service | Guide Price |
|---|---|---|
| 3500 x 3500 | Full Build | £17,500 – £19,600 |
| 3500 x 4000 | Full Build | £18,900 – £21,000 |
| 3500 x 4500 | Full Build | £20,300 – £22,400 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an orangery and a conservatory?
An orangery is a brick building with large windows to maximise light and a flat roof made of glass with a roof lantern, traditionally used for growing plants, with far more masonry work present. A conservatory is a glass structure with a brick base and a pitched glazed roof, available in a range of materials such as timber, upvc, or aluminium.
Do you need planning permission for orangery extensions in the UK?
Constructions that fall within so-called Permitted Development Rights (PDR) don’t require planning permission. Orangery extensions are single storey so in most cases fall within permitted development rights allowing homeowners to build a reasonably-sized extension without the cost or worry of a planning application. However, the new orangery must fall within the permitted development guidelines which can be confusing. Ask your installer to help you with this. If your home is a listed building or you live in a conservation area, then there may be limitations imposed on your building work and you could stand to face a little back and forth with your local planning authority.
How much value does an orangery add to a property?
Orangeries will add value to your home if the building construction is to a high standard and the architecture is in keeping with the rest of the property. Orangeries can add as much value as a solid extension depending on the finish and features. It’s essential to consider the style of your home and the type of orangery extension to suit it. Traditional stone-built or brick period homes should partner with a matching orangery design whereas a contemporary building can work well with a timber orangery design in modern colours like anthracite grey.
Should I choose an orangery or a conservatory?
The two principal factors to consider is which style would best suit your home based on the available space and house design, and what do you want to use the extra room for. You may be restricted by planning permission and building regulations so it’s important to check this first so you don’t set your heart on something which may not be within permitted development.
Does a modern orangery design avoid the greenhouse effect of a conservatory?
One of the drawbacks of conservatories with traditional glass walls and a glazed roof is that they can provide too much sun and light at certain times of the year. That’s why some people opt for a solid roof on their conservatory or invest in expensive blinds to shade the interior. Orangeries avoid this issue because they are a brick construction. Light comes from the roof lanterns so the room remains an attractive living space in the summer and is warm enough for use in the winter because of its traditional build and luxury additions like underfloor heating.
When did orangeries start?
Orangeries date back two or three hundred years and were originally built to house fruit trees to protect citrus fruits and exotic plants from cold Northern European winters. The earliest orangeries in the 17th century were amazing glass structures with solid roofs but the 19th century saw the development of a different style, with a central glazed roof lantern to allow more light in.
Modern orangery extensions take their inspiration from historic designs and offer a versatile living space. They combine the features and benefits of a permanent extension to your home with all the natural light and style of a conservatory. Constructed with a solid roof, they also have solid brick pillars with tall windows which are usually south-facing.
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