While you may think that a conservatory is a common type of home extension while an orangery is a grand structure usually found in stately homes, this is not the technical difference; instead, key features are the difference, and both could be an option for your home. Let’s look at this in more detail.
Walls and roofs
A key difference between the two is the amount of glass used in the walls and roofs. A conservatory typically has a roof that is at least 75% glass and walls that are at least 50% glass, while an orangery usually has a roof that is less than 74% glass and walls that are less than 50%.
The structure
Today, the boundaries between an orangery and a conservatory are blurred; however, a conservatory is usually made from glass or polycarbonate panels designed to provide lots of natural light, bringing the outdoors inside. An orangery tends to have more solidity in the roof and uses a mixture of building materials, such as glass panels with brick columns.
Traditionally, orangeries were for growing orange trees. The glass panels let in sunlight and warmth, while the columns provided a shelter for the plants.
Which is best?
There can be no single answer to this, as it will depend on your vision for your home. If you are considering a conservatory or an orangery, it is best to consult with a firm that specialises in home renovations. An internet search relevant to your area, such as ‘home renovations Cheltenham’, will produce results such as https://precisionbuildersltd.co.uk/services/home-renovations/cheltenham/.
While there are no hard and fast rules, you may decide an orangery would be better if you have an older property because it can match the brickwork of your existing structure. In smaller homes with small gardens, a lean-to conservatory can make the most of the space you have available.
Conservatories can also be built in different shapes to suit different spaces, so they don’t have to result in losing too much of the garden.