Orangeries and conservatories are some of the most popular extension types for UK homeowners.
Both offer a blend of inside/outside, create extra living space, and encourage the flow of natural light. However, there are significant differences between the two, including materials, structure, and primary uses.
So, how do you know which is right for you?
In this blog, we will outline the differences between orangeries and conservatories and the benefits and potential drawbacks of each so you can make the best choice.
What is an Orangery?
An orangery is a substantial house extension that mixes brickwork and glazing to create an attractive living space and architectural feature.
Orangeries originated in the Italian Renaissance gardens of the 17th – 19th Centuries and were named for their original purpose – housing orange and lemon trees during winter.
Either attached to the main property or freestanding buildings close by, they were a symbol of wealth and luxury, with grand architectural designs, such as classical pilasters.
Orangeries were traditionally made of stone, with large south-facing windows to maximise sunlight. They tended to have solid roofs and were heated to mimic the summer temperature, helping the fruit trees thrive while protecting them from the elements.
Typically attached to the main property by at least one wall, though they can still be freestanding, modern orangeries use brick and have evolved into more of a living space.
The most common uses are a dining area or a kitchen extension, creating a light and bright area for cooking or entertaining between the house and garden.
What is a Conservatory?
A conservatory is still an extension, but it can be detached from the primary property and is predominantly made of glass. The framework is usually metal, UPVC or occasionally timber, and most conservatories have a pitched roof.
Somewhere between an orangery and a greenhouse, conservatories became popular in the early 19th century, thanks to Dutch innovations in glasswork.
These advances meant that larger glazed areas with thinner frames became possible, and the usage shifted from plants to sunrooms and relaxation.
It wasn’t until the 1970s and 1980s that modern conservatories really took off as a viable option for UK homeowners.
There are several shapes and styles of conservatory and, with customisation available, you can create a bespoke conservatory unique to your property.
Conservatories are also used as dining areas, but can also be relaxation spaces or playrooms.
Comparing Orangeries and Conservatories
Let’s do a side-by-side comparison and recap some of the key differences between orangeries and conservatories.
Design and Structure
The main difference between an orangery and a conservatory is the percentage of glass incorporated into the structure. Orangeries typically have less than 75% glazing in the roof, while conservatories have 75%+ glass/polycarbonate roofs. Orangeries also have thicker (brick) frames, which reduces the amount of glazing in the structure to less than 50% of the total wall area.
Conservatories often have large, uninterrupted glazed areas, including windows, doors and roofs. Orangeries are more likely to have tall windows on one side, typically south-facing. They may also have wooden shutters to retain heat during the night.
Functionality and Use
Both can be used as dining areas, but orangeries may also be used as a kitchen extension, while conservatories are typically more commonly used for relaxation and as children’s play areas.
Orangeries may be more suited to 18th-century properties than a conservatory as they more closely match the architectural style of that period.
Energy Efficiency
Due to their more solid construction, insulated brick walls, and smaller glazed areas, orangeries are generally considered slightly more energy efficient than conservatories. However, with energy-efficient glazing such as triple glazing and Planitherm, tiled and hybrid roofs incorporating solar panels, and technology such as thermal breaks in frames, conservatories are not far behind.
You also need to factor in the location and relative sun exposure, as this will affect the energy use for heating and cooling.
Cost Considerations
While it depends on the size, style, materials, and access, orangeries are typically more expensive than conservatories, both to build and install.
This is due to the cost of brickwork, the requirements of foundations, the increased installation time, and the potential costs of planning permission.
Although orangeries usually have a higher initial outlay cost, it’s important to factor in savings in heating and cooling costs and the potential value added to the property.
Pros and Cons of Each
| Feature | Orangery | Conservatory |
| Pros | Better insulation and energy efficiency; Feels more like an extension of the home; Solid roof offers more privacy and style options | More natural light; Typically lower cost; Quicker to install |
| Cons | More expensive; Longer construction time; May require more structural changes | Poorer insulation (can be too hot/cold); Less integrated with home; May have higher maintenance needs |
| Aesthetic Appeal | More substantial and permanent-looking; Often matches home brickwork | Light and airy; May appear less substantial in design |
| Functionality | Suitable as year-round living space; Can be used as dining/living area | Often used as garden room or sunroom; May be less suitable for winter use |
| Planning Permission | More likely to require permission (depending on size/design) | Usually allowed under permitted development (but still check locally) |
Planning Permission and Regulations
Both orangeries and conservatories are considered single-storey extensions, and many will fall under permitted development rights.
There are circumstances in which you would require planning permission for a conservatory, which we outlined in a recently updated blog.
Orangeries are slightly different as they are closer to a standard home extension than a conservatory due to the brickwork, and leading directly from the home.
They must follow all the same building regulations as conservatories, plus have an independent heating system.
Our professional in-house fitters are licenced with a competent person scheme, meaning we can grant building regulation approval as part of the installation.
Conclusion
Offering a seamless replacement for outdated traditional sash windows, Heritage sash windows give the appearance of authentic timber, with all the modern benefits of uPVC.
While original sash windows are beautiful, they’re simply not designed for modern living. If you are renovating a period property, Heritage sash windows provide the perfect upgrade.
Almost indistinguishable from the ‘real thing’ to the naked eye, Heritage windows are far more energy-efficient, noise-insulating, and secure.
Remember to check planning permission requirements in your area and try to match the original features as closely as possible for the best repairs and replacements.
FAQs
Yes, a conservatory is typically cheaper than an orangery. This is largely due to the materials used – more brickwork for the orangery, the longer installation time, and the extra building regulations that an orangery may need to adhere to. They are also more likely to require planning permission than a conservatory, which can increase costs further. The size, style, and complexity of each design will factor into the cost.
Orangeries are generally more energy efficient than conservatories. Again, this is down to their more solid construction, with brickwork typically more insulating than large glazed areas. Orangeries also usually have more substantial roofs – such as pitched or tiled – and cost less to heat and cool than most conservatories.
As most orangeries are attached to the main property and conservatories may not be, you are slightly more likely to need planning permission for an orangery vs a conservatory.