If you’re thinking about adding extra space to your home, but you want something that doesn’t feel like a cheap glass box, then a well‑designed orangery could be the answer. At Staffordshire Windows & Conservatories, we specialise in orangeries that look good, perform well, and feel like a natural part of your house.
What is an Orangery?
The term ‘orangery’ might sound grand, but in simple terms it’s a garden‑extension room that blends solid construction (walls) and lots of glazing (windows/roof) to give you a room that’s part living space, part garden room. Historically, orangeries were built in big houses to grow citrus trees — but today they’re all about living comfort.
Here’s how it differs from a conservatory:
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A conservatory usually has lots of glass walls and a predominantly glass roof, which can make it harder to keep comfortable all year.
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An orangery uses more brick or solid base walls, with high‑quality glazing and a roof lantern or partially glazed roof — giving more insulation and structure.
In short: If you want a room you’re going to use throughout the year, not just when the weather’s kind, an orangery brings more stability, comfort and privacy.
Why a Modern Orangery Might Be the Right Choice
Practical Use All Year Round
Older glass extensions often get very cold in the winter or overheated in the summer. Modern orangeries address those problems with better insulation, better roofs and thermal details.
When done well, you’ll use the room for family meals, working from home, relaxing, entertaining — not just as a “sun‑room” that sits empty for half the year.
Privacy & Comfort
Because an orangery uses more solid structure, you get more privacy (less full‑glass exterior) and you can design it to feel more like a proper room in your home rather than a greenhouse.
At Staffordshire Windows & Conservatories, our orangeries are described as “increasing privacy, suited to dining or kitchen areas” for this reason.
Added Home Value
A well‑built orangery can add considerable value. Many buyers look for extra flexible space that’s comfortable, well integrated and energy‑efficient.
A Good Fit for Many Homes
Whether you live in a period house, a modern build or somewhere in between, orangeries can be designed to suit your property. They’re flexible in style — brick, glass, roof lanterns or tiled segments — so they can match your home rather than stand out awkwardly.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for an orangery or considering our services, make sure you check these features. It’s the details that make the difference between “bit extra room” and “space you’ll use for years”.
Solid Base & Insulation
A good base (brick or insulated wall) is essential. It keeps the room warm, stable and comfortable. Our orangeries at SWC are constructed with care, using high‑quality frames and materials.
Roof Options
The roof makes a big difference. Choices include fully glazed roofs, lantern roofs, hybrid roofs (part solid, part glazed). Insulation and design here affect how warm/cool the room stays.
Quality Glazing & Frames
High‑performance glazing (double or triple), low‑E coatings, good seals and frames all matter. Our company specifies lead‑free recyclable profiles, high thermal performance.
Thermal Efficiency
Make sure the build is geared for year‑round use: good insulation, minimal heat loss/gain. Many sources point out that if you just throw up a large glass room, you’ll regret it when it’s too hot or too cold.
Style & Integration
You want the addition to feel like part of the house — the same materials, similar roof line, matching colours. Our orangeries can be bespoke to match your home’s architecture.
Versatility of Use
Think about how you’ll use it: dining, living room, office, play area. The more flexible the build, the more value you’ll get. At SWC we talk about orangeries being used for relaxation, entertaining, dining or whatever you need.
How to Plan Your Orangery
Step 1: Define Your Purpose
Start by thinking: what will the room be used for? Dining table? Lounge area? Home office? Playroom? That affects size, orientation, glazing and lighting.
Step 2: Measure & Survey
Get a survey to check site conditions, access, foundations, and how the extension will connect to your existing home.
Step 3: Style the Build
Choose whether you want traditional (brick base, lantern roof), contemporary (metal/wood finishes, minimal brick), or somewhere between. Use existing house materials as a guide.
Step 4: Thermal & Technical Spec
Make sure you check insulation, roof build, glazing specs, ventilation. If these are done well, you’ll be comfortable and save on bills.
Step 5: Planning & Permissions
Most orangeries fall under permitted development — but always check if your home is listed, in a conservation area, or you exceed size limits.
Step 6: Choose a Trusted Supplier
You want someone who will build well, with reliable materials and care. At SWC you get UK‑manufactured frames, lead‑free materials and local service.
Step 7: Installation & Aftercare
Ensure the installation is done cleanly, consider flooring, heating/ventilation, wiring for lights or blinds, and ensure post‑install support.
Realistic Benefits You’ll Notice
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Less draught and better warmth – thanks to insulated walls/roof and quality glazing.
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Better daylight and garden connection – large windows/roof mean more natural light and better views.
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More usable space – whether for family time, work or relaxing.
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Better resale value – shows you invested in good quality extension.
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Low maintenance – good materials = less upkeep.
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Privacy – solid base walls and good design mean fewer “all glass” exposures.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Choosing lots of glass but poor insulation (leads to overheating or freezing).
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Neglecting ventilation or shading (room becomes unusable on hot days).
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Not matching the build to your home (looks incongruous).
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Using low‑quality frames or glazing – might save cost now, cost more later.
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Not considering how you will actually use the space (function drives design).
FAQs
1. What is an orangery?
An orangery is a room made with a mix of solid brickwork and large windows, giving you a bright space that feels like a real extension.
2. How is an orangery different from a conservatory?
A conservatory has more glass, while an orangery has more solid walls. This makes an orangery warmer, more private and easier to use all year.
3. Can I use an orangery throughout the year?
Yes. Modern orangeries are built with insulation, quality glazing and strong structures that keep the space comfortable in every season.
4. Will an orangery add value to my home?
Most likely, yes. A well‑built orangery creates extra living space, which is something many buyers look for when house hunting.
5. Is planning permission required?
Not always. Many orangeries fall under permitted development, but it depends on size, design and your property type.
6. Can I choose the design and materials?
Absolutely. You can customise the style, colours, roof options and brickwork to match your home perfectly.
7. Are orangeries energy efficient?
Yes. They use modern insulation and high‑performance glazing to reduce heat loss and keep the room warm or cool when needed.
8. What can I use an orangery for?
People use them as dining rooms, lounges, home offices, playrooms or garden‑view relaxation spaces.
9. How long does it take to install an orangery?
Timescales vary, but a typical installation can take several weeks depending on size, groundwork and custom features.
