When it comes to extending your living space there are more options on offer than simple house extensions. You could also choose between an orangery or a conservatory. Both predominantly made of glass and can create a tranquil blended living space between your home and your garden. With both being so similar, the two can often be confused so we’ve put together a guide on the key differences between the two.
What are orangeries and conservatories?
Both are highly energy efficient glass structures that act as extensions to your home. The main differences are in the amount of glass used and styles unique to each.
A conservatory typically uses more than 75% glass in its design of the roof. Predominantly made from glass, conservatories usually have a small brick wall around the perimeter supporting large panes of glass and have a glazed roof with minimal other materials. Conservatories came into common use in Northern European countries in the 18th century following the creation of orangeries in Europe. This created a variety of styles such as the lean-to conservatory or the T, L or P shaped conservatories. Read more about the styles of conservatories here.
An orangery tends to be more like a house extension, with a solid roof with roof lanterns to act as windows and glass incorporated in less than 50% of the whole wall area. This acts in stark contrast to their traditional style, which used to be used as large, opulent buildings in which to grow orange trees in historic homes. The rationale being the sun’s warmth would be trapped inside large walls of glass supported by solid brick or metal pillars holding up an internal pelmet. Orangeries came into being during the Renaissance period after the discovery of Italian nobility that they could grow exotic fruits in cooler climates.
Pros and cons
Aside from technical differences and types of styles, there are pros and cons as to why you might consider an orangery over a conservatory and vice versa. These include:
Orangeries
| Pros | Cons |
| The solid materials used with a roof lantern orangery can provide better insulation all year round, so less money on your energy bills. | Can be comparatively more expensive than conservatories. |
| Can offer significantly higher value to your home when it comes to selling. | Less natural light owing to the solid building materials. |
Conservatories
| Pros | Cons |
| Have the ability to let in more natural light as a result of using more glass. | Glass whilst still highly energy efficient may not save you as much on the heating as solid building materials. |
| Blends your home into your garden by seamlessly integrating glass into the design of your home. | Will add resale value to your home, however not as much as an orangery. A cheaply made conservatory may actually detract value. |
| Tends to be more of a relaxed space in nature. | |
| Cheaper as a result of using glass over solid building materials. |
So, should I choose an orangery or conservatory?
Ultimately that is down to you. Both can act as a welcome addition to your home. If you are looking for a new way to enjoy your garden all year round, a conservatory may be a better option. If you’re looking for more living space indoors, an orangery may suit you more. Your budget may be able to decide for you too, as orangeries can be significantly more expensive than conservatories. Aside from what you intend to use your new living space for and your budget, you might also like to consider improving your home’s resale value which may also help you to decide on a design concept.
If you are still struggling to choose and live in the areas of Keighley, Silsden, Bingley, Ilkley & Skipton we are here to help. Contact us on 01535 958 183 or on our contact form.