An orangery extension gives you the daylight of a glazed room with the comfort of a true home addition. With brick pillars, deep eaves and a feature roof lantern, it feels like part of the house—not a bolt-on. For a full overview of styles, budgets and timelines, see our Orangery Guide.
Why choose an orangery (not a conservatory)?
A conservatory is mostly glass (including the roof), which can swing hot/cold. An orangery uses a warm, insulated roof with a central lantern, so it:
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keeps a steadier temperature year-round
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looks more like a proper extension from inside and out
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works brilliantly as a kitchen-diner, living room or family space
Key design choices
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Roof: flat warm roof + single lantern, or warm/solid roof with roof windows
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Glazing: low-U, solar-control glass to retain heat and cut glare
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Frames: slim aluminium for a modern look, or uPVC for value
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Open-through layouts: removing the rear wall needs structural steel (RSJs) and sign-off
Tip: layer downlights + pendants for task and mood lighting so the space works day and night.
Planning & Building Regs (quick take)
Many orangeries are possible under Permitted Development; some need a Householder application. Building Regulations will check structure, thermal performance, safety glazing and electrics. Your installer should handle drawings and approvals—our Orangery Guide explains the steps.
Heating, cooling & ventilation
Underfloor heating or radiators both work. Opening vents in the lantern/windows help purge heat in summer; good insulation prevents heat loss in winter.
Simple build checklist
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Drawings & approvals
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Insulated base + damp-proofing
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Walls + any structural steel
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Warm roof + lantern
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Energy-efficient glazing
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Plaster, electrics, flooring
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Final checks & certification
Plan next
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Price doors for your design with our Bifold Door Cost Calculator.
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See the Home Security Guide for PAS 24, TS 007 and laminated glass tips used across our projects.
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Explore styles, budgets and timelines on the Orangery Guide, then get free quotes—we’ll match you with vetted installers.
