Orangery vs Conservatory: Which Is Right For You?

Conservatories and orangeries offer the option of additional space at home. Orangeries, with more brickwork, provide a natural extension feel with less glass for privacy. Conservatories prioritise views with extensive glass and can sometimes be a fully glazed structure with a glass roof, maximising sunlight with thermally efficient frames. Choosing between an orangery and conservatory depends on personal preference and what you’re going to do with the space.

orangery vs conservatory
The Difference Between Orangery and Conservatory

What is an Orangery?

Unlike conservatories, orangeries tend to have less glazing and more brickwork in the walls of the structure. They are a brick structure with large windows.

Many homeowners appreciate the natural extension feel that an orangery provides, as it seamlessly integrates with the existing structure of the house. 

The careful choice of brickwork is crucial to ensure the orangery looks like an authentic extension rather than an afterthought, and this is something our advisors can help with. While glass is still a prominent feature, its reduced presence compared to conservatories offers added privacy and a balance of warmth. 

Do Orangeries Add Value to a House?

Orangeries can add significant value to a house. Their distinctive architectural design and integration with the existing structure enhance the overall appeal and functionality of the property. 

Unlike conservatories, which may sometimes appear as retrofitted additions, orangeries offer a seamless extension that blends harmoniously with the house’s aesthetic. 

With the use of Clearview’s high-quality materials and construction methods ensures durability and longevity, further contributing to the property’s value. 

Finally, the versatility of orangeries allows homeowners to utilise the space for various purposes, from dining areas to home gyms, increasing the overall desirability of the property. 

What is a Conservatory?

A conservatory is a versatile living space designed to bring the outdoors indoors, maximising sunlight. 

Featuring energy-efficient glazing and a fully glazed structure, conservatories boast large, tall windows that allow sunlight to flood the interior, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. 

These expansive, large, tall windows not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also optimise thermal efficiency with energy-efficient glazing by harnessing warmth from the sun, making conservatories comfortable spaces to enjoy throughout the year.

Do Conservatories Add Value to a House?

Investing in a conservatory offers both immediate enjoyment and long-term value appreciation for homeowners. These versatile living spaces not only enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of a property but also increase its market value. 

Potential buyers are often drawn to the added living space and connection to the outdoors that conservatories provide, making them a desirable feature in any home. Therefore, they can help make your property stand out from a crowded market.

With their ability to maximise natural light, conservatories contribute to the overall appeal and desirability of a property, ultimately adding value to a property.

The Difference Between a Conservatory and Orangery

As we’ve touched on above, the main difference between orangery and conservatory designs is that a conservatory typically features more glass than an orangery, which instead emphasises brickwork. 

However, the distinction between the two can sometimes blur, making it challenging to categorise them definitively. 

Contemporary designs have evolved, offering a wide range of styles that may incorporate elements from both conservatories and orangeries, further blurring the lines between the two. 

Should I Buy a Conservatory or an Orangery?

Ultimately, the choice of conservatory vs orangery boils down to personal preference, architectural compatibility, and desired functionality.

When you’re looking at an orangery vs conservatory, our advisors can take you through their typical features and the difference between a conservatory and orangery, however each living space is custom-built so you can take some typical conservatory features and typical orangery features to create your dream space based on the suitability for property style.

Have a look at our Living Spaces page to see a number of orangeries and conservatories that Orion has been responsible for building to help discover which most takes your fancy.

Your Questions, Answered

Are orangeries better than conservatories?

Neither orangeries or conservatories are better than the other and it depends on personal preference. Orangeries, distinguished by more brickwork in the base and walls, offer a natural extension to homes, while conservatories prioritise transparency with large, tall windows and extensive glass. The choice hinges on factors like privacy, aesthetics, and functionality. Orangeries provide a balance between privacy and garden views, whereas conservatories emphasise transparency. Understanding the difference between orangery and conservatory designs helps homeowners select the option that best suits their preferences and needs.

Is planning permission needed for an orangery?

Determining whether planning permission is necessary for an orangery depends on various factors, including size, location, and local regulations. Typically, smaller orangery constructions may fall within permitted development rights, bypassing the need for planning permission. However, larger projects or those in conservation areas may necessitate planning approval. Consulting local authorities or professionals ensures compliance with regulations. By understanding the regulations governing orangery vs conservatory installations, homeowners can navigate the planning process easily. The team at Clearview can of course assist you with managing this.

Which is cheaper, a conservatory or an orangery?

Comparing the cost between a conservatory and an orangery involves considering factors such as size, materials, and design complexity. Generally, conservatories, with their sometimes fully glass structure, may be more cost-effective than orangeries, which incorporate more brickwork and prominent roofing. However, the overall cost varies based on many things. While conservatories do a good job at maximising sunlight at a potentially lower cost, orangeries provide a substantial, natural extension to homes.

Are orangeries and conservatories energy efficient?

Both orangeries and conservatories can achieve energy efficiency through modern design and materials. Incorporating thermally efficient frames and energy-efficient glazing reduces heat loss and improves insulation. Orangeries, with their brickwork base and less glass give a real balance of warmth, so they may offer slightly better insulation than conservatories. However, advancements in conservatory construction ensure effective thermal performance. Selecting high-quality materials and ensuring proper insulation from expert installers (like Clearview) will enhance energy efficiency, regardless of whether you choose an orangery or a conservatory.

Visit your local Clearview Showroom

Everyone is welcome to come in and browse around our Preston showroom in Lancashire, or our Nantwich & Warrington showrooms in Cheshire, where our friendly sales team will be pleased to help with any questions you may have.

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