Many homeowners want more space at home, but they also want to feel comfortable and not “on display”. A full glass conservatory can sometimes feel too open, especially if neighbours can see straight in. On the other hand, a brick extension can block out the light you were hoping for. An orangery is a great middle ground. It lets in loads of natural light, but its solid walls and pillars give you far more privacy than a typical conservatory.
What Exactly Is an Orangery?
An orangery is basically a room with a mix of brickwork and large windows. It usually has a part-solid roof and a glazed lantern or rooflights in the middle. This design makes it feel more like a proper extension while still being bright and airy.
Homeowners like orangeries because they:
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Feel private and cosy
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Bring in plenty of daylight
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Work well all year round
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Don’t feel as “glass-heavy” as a conservatory
It’s the best of both worlds — private where you need it, open where you want it.
Why People Want More Privacy
Many homes, especially on estates or terraces, are close together. So having a room with full glass walls isn’t always ideal. You may feel watched when:
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Eating dinner
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Relaxing with lights on
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Working from home
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Having friends over
An orangery solves this by using brick walls in key areas, so you don’t feel exposed.
How Orangeries Keep You Private
More Solid Walls
Unlike a conservatory, an orangery is built with proper walls and pillars. These block the areas where neighbours could easily see in, especially at eye level.
Better Control Over Where People Can See In
Because orangeries are made to measure, you can choose where the glass goes and where you want solid walls. This means you can:
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Keep garden views
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Block neighbours’ windows
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Create a more comfortable, enclosed feel
Roof Design Helps Too
Most orangeries use a solid roof with a lantern or rooflights. This gives privacy from above but still lets sunlight flood the room.
You Still Get Plenty of Light
Even though orangeries offer more privacy, they don’t feel dark. Here’s why:
Large Windows
The windows are taller and wider than in many normal rooms, so daylight still pours in.
Roof Lantern
This is the real hero. The lantern in the roof brings light into the centre of the room, keeping it bright all day.
Light Interior Finishes
Most homeowners choose light walls and ceilings, which help reflect sunlight around the room.
Why an Orangery Often Works Better Than a Conservatory
A conservatory is mostly glass. Great for sunlight but not great for privacy.
An orangery is a balanced structure:
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Enough glass to feel open
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Enough brickwork to feel private
This is why many people choose an orangery for dining rooms, living spaces, kitchen extensions and home offices.
Extra Comfort: Warm, Quiet and Easy to Use
Modern orangeries are well insulated, so they stay warm in winter and comfortable in summer. The brickwork and solid roof help cut down outside noise too, making the space feel calm and cosy.
With the right glazing and insulation, most homeowners find their orangery becomes one of the most-used rooms in the house.
What You Can Use an Orangery For
People use their orangery as:
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A family living room
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A dining room
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A home office
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A playroom
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A hobby or reading room
Because it feels private but still bright, it works for everyday life — not just the summer months.
Tips for Planning Your Orangery
To get the balance right, think about:
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Where neighbours can see in
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Which direction gets most sunlight
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How you want to use the room
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What style fits your home
A good installer will help you pick window placements, roof options and wall designs that suit your home and lifestyle.
FAQs
1. Do orangeries give more privacy than conservatories?
Yes. Orangeries have solid walls and pillars, so you’re not surrounded by full glass panels like a conservatory.
2. Will my orangery still feel bright if it has more brickwork?
Absolutely. Large windows and a roof lantern still bring in plenty of natural light.
3. Are orangeries suitable for homes that are close to neighbours?
Yes. Their design naturally blocks sightlines, helping you feel more comfortable and less overlooked.
4. Can I choose where the solid walls and windows go?
Yes. Orangeries are custom designed, so you can decide which areas need more privacy.
5. Will an orangery stay warm in winter?
Modern insulation, quality glazing and solid walls help keep the room warm and comfortable all year round.
6. Does an orangery add value to a home?
In most cases, yes. Buyers like the extra space and the mix of privacy and natural light.
7. Can an orangery be used as a main living space?
Yes. Many people use it as a lounge, dining room, office or playroom because it feels private and cosy.
8. Are orangeries strong enough to last many years?
Yes. With strong brickwork and modern building methods, they’re made to last long-term.
9. Do orangeries suit older and newer houses?
Yes. They can be designed to match both period homes and modern builds.
10. Are planning permissions usually required for an orangery?
Sometimes, depending on size and design. Many fall under permitted development, but it’s always good to check first.
Summary
If you want more space at home without feeling overlooked, an orangery is a great choice. It offers more privacy than a conservatory, more natural light than a traditional brick extension, and creates a comfortable room you can enjoy all year round. For many working families, it’s the ideal middle option; practical, bright and private, giving you a useful space that fits easily into everyday life.
