The Orangery is the ultimate way to extend your home creatively.

The orangery was once an outward display of wealth since building and then heating them to produce an annual crop of citrus fruits cost vast sums of money and intensive labour.

Although many orangeries pre-date the Georgian Period, they reached their zenith of popularity at this time. The orangery was gradually replaced by the conservatory from the mid-Victorian Period onwards after window tax was abolished and glass making techniques became industrialised. These factors, plus the technology of wrought iron used in glazing bars and cast iron for structural support, allowed the building of the classic Victorian conservatory still popular to this day.

The Contemporary Orangery

The modern orangery is still characterised by symmetrical windows and a combination of brick or stone with glass. The Orangery illustrated in the photo on the left, recreates their classic appeal on a domestic scale. As a designer kitchen extension they add presence and style.

An orangery is often a more practical solution than a conservatory. The insulation provided by use of brick or stone will provide better insulation from the cold in north facing situations and some added protection from constant summer sun in south facing locations.

The Orangery Roof

The flat roof of an Orangery was traditionally finished in lead which acquired a lovely patina over time, but which today can be prohibitively expensive to install. The alternative is a flat roof made from modern materials; but you should choose one with a manufacturers guarantee or else you will find that the roof will need repairing or replacing from time-to-time.

Whatever, type of roof you choose, it can be inset with single or multiple glazed roof lanterns. A single roof lantern will be like a glass atrium and flood the room with natural light, while you can use multiple roof lanterns to focus light onto work or dining areas depending on your preferences. The flat roof will also enable you to install modern downlighters and if these are controlled by dimmer switches, you can create subtle lighting and intimate spaces.

Making your choice

Whether you choose an orangery or a conservatory will depend on many factors. If you live in a Listed Property or in a Conservation Area, an orangery is often looked on more sympathetically by Planning Officers of a Local Council than a conservatory.