Orangery vs Conservatory: Complete Guide 2026
An orangery sits between a conservatory and a full extension. It has solid walls with large windows and a flat roof with a central lantern — giving it more presence and year-round usability than a conservatory, at a lower cost than a brick-built extension.
What you need to know
Orangery vs conservatory vs extension
A conservatory is mostly glass (75%+ glazed roof and walls). An orangery has solid brick or rendered walls with large windows and a flat roof with a glazed lantern. A full extension is entirely solid construction. Orangeries look more substantial than conservatories and are warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
Design and materials
Modern orangeries typically use brick or rendered columns with aluminium bi-fold doors and a flat roof with a central roof lantern. The solid perimeter walls allow for better insulation than a conservatory, making the space comfortable year-round without excessive heating costs.
How much does it cost?
| Item | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Small orangery (12–16m²) | £30,000–£50,000 |
| Medium orangery (16–25m²) | £45,000–£70,000 |
| Large orangery (25–35m²) | £65,000–£100,000 |
| Roof lantern | £3,000–£8,000 |
| Professional fees | £2,000–£4,000 |
Prices based on Dorset rates, 2026
Planning permission
Orangeries usually fall under Permitted Development as they are structurally similar to a single-storey extension. Standard PD rules apply — 4m/8m depth limits, height restrictions, and boundary conditions. In conservation areas, the solid walls and flat roof are often more acceptable than a glazed conservatory.
Standard single-storey extension PD rules apply. The 75% glazed roof rule that distinguishes conservatories from extensions under Building Regulations does not affect PD — it affects whether Building Regulations apply.
Building regulations
If less than 75% of the roof and 50% of the walls are glazed, Building Regulations apply in full (same as a standard extension). Most orangeries fall into this category. If the glazing thresholds are exceeded, a thermal separation (door between house and orangery) may be required.
Typical timeline
| Phase | Duration |
|---|---|
| Design | 2–3 weeks |
| Build | 8–14 weeks |
Frequently asked questions
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