Looking to update your home with extra space, light, and that touch of elegance? An orangery could be just the thing. Striking the right balance between old-school charm and practical modern living, orangeries add value, comfort, and personality to any home in Staffordshire or beyond.
What Is an Orangery?
An orangery is a type of home extension, similar to a conservatory but with more solid walls and less glass in the roof. Think brick or stone base, tall windows on the sides, and a central glass lantern on top.
Originally used in the 17ᵗʰ century to grow citrus trees in winter, they now serve as bright, enjoyable living spaces. They cost more than conservatories because they’re built to blend into your home and keep warm all year round.
Why Choose an Orangery?
1. Traditional Looks with Modern Comfort
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A sturdy base with brick walls gives a classic feel, while the glass “lantern” roof adds style and light.
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Looks like part of your house, not just a garden shed attached.
2. Warm and Usable All Year
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Brick walls retain heat better than fully glazed conservatories, making orangeries cosier in winter.
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You get better insulation, so you can use the space daily for living, dining, or relaxing.
3. Loads of Light
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Tall windows and a lantern roof pour in lots of daylight, great for family gatherings, indoor plants, or simply being cosy.
4. Adds Real Value to Your Home
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According to Ideal Home, orangeries can add up to 15% on your home’s value, more than a conservatory typically does.
How We Build Orangeries at Staffordshire Windows & Conservatories
At SWC, we handle every step—from design to installation—right here in Staffordshire:
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Free Survey – we check your site, planning needs, and what will look best.
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Design Options – choose your base material (brick/stone), windows, lantern roof, doors, and finish.
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Energy Performance – we use double glazing, insulated plastered walls, and efficient roof lanterns to keep energy bills down.
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Secure Features – all doors and windows meet British Standards (PAS 24, Secured by Design).
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Installed by Our Team – our local fitters take care of mess-free, tidy installations.
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Final Check & Guarantee – once it’s done, we walk you through it and leave behind a proper warranty.
Are You Allowed to Build One?
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Planning consent isn’t usually needed unless your home is listed or in a conservation area
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Orangeries are designed to blend in and follow building regs—SWC can guide you through it.
Materials and Roof Types
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Solid Base – typically brick, stone, or stucco to match your home.
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Walls – mix of brick and glazed frames.
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Roof Lantern – lets in light but keeps heat inside and helps with artificial lighting after dark.
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Windows & Doors – uPVC or aluminium frames, double glazed, multi-point locks.
Customisable Extras
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Lantern Roof with lighting for ambience.
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French or Bi-fold Doors for easy access to the garden.
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Sidelights—extra windows beside doors to let in more light.
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Glazing Styles — clear, frosted, or shaped to your liking.
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Interior Finishes—plaster, paint, underfloor heating, spotlights.
Should You Get an Orangery?
Yes, if you want:
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A well-insulated, year-round living space
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Something that matches your home’s character
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A bright, versatile space for dining, relaxing, or working
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Extra value when it’s time to sell
If you just want a quick, inexpensive space for the garden, a conservatory might still be right for you. But if you’re looking to upgrade for the long term, think orangery.
Maintenance and Care
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Wipe down glass and frames with soapy water
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Check seals every few years
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Keep guttering clean
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Use a soft brush or vacuum on the lantern roof
A little care goes a long way—and we’ll explain what you need to do when it’s fitted.
FAQs – Orangeries
1. What is an orangery?
An orangery is a brick-based home extension with tall windows and a roof lantern. It’s warmer and more solid than a conservatory.
2. How is an orangery different from a conservatory?
A conservatory is mostly glass, while an orangery has brick walls, plastered interiors, and a glass lantern roof for a cosier feel.
3. Can I use an orangery all year round?
Yes – orangeries are better insulated, so they stay warm in winter and cool in summer, unlike some glass conservatories.
4. Do I need planning permission for an orangery?
Most orangeries don’t need planning permission, but we’ll always check for you—especially if your home is listed or in a conservation area.
5. What can I use my orangery for?
It’s up to you—many people use it as a dining room, family lounge, home office, or even a playroom.
6. Will an orangery add value to my home?
Yes – a well-built orangery can add up to 10–15% to your property’s value, especially if it’s done to match the house.
7. How long does it take to build one?
Most orangeries take 3–6 weeks to complete, depending on size, materials, and weather.
8. What materials can I choose from?
We offer brick or stone bases, uPVC or aluminium doors and windows, and a variety of roof lantern styles and finishes.
9. How do I maintain it?
Just wipe down the frames, clean the glass, and check gutters and seals a few times a year. We’ll give you all the tips.
10. Is it secure?
Yes – our orangeries come with multi-point locks, toughened glass, and secure frames, just like the rest of your home.
Summary
An orangery gives you the best of both worlds: traditional charm with modern comforts. You get a light-filled, well-insulated space that blends into your home and adds value too. If you’re thinking about a home upgrade in Staffordshire, this could be just what you need.
