Whether an orangery or conservatory is better really depends on the individual’s needs and preferences. Generally, orangeries are bigger than conservatories in size and provide more space. Many people also find that orangeries have a more luxurious feel because of their large glass walls and high ceilings.
If a person is looking for a space to entertain guests or hold events, an orangery would probably be the better choice. On the other hand, conservatories can provide ample light and a great view of the outdoors, making them perfect for enjoying the sunshine.
They are also more affordable and simpler to construct than an orangery. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference.
What’s difference between conservatory and orangery?
The main difference between a conservatory and an orangery is the purpose and materials used in construction. A conservatory is designed to provide an atmosphere of year-round comfort and is usually made of glass and a PVC frame.
Orangeries are larger, more ornate and are generally made with a combination of brick and glass. The glass used in orangeries allows in more light and the brick provides more stability and insulation.
Conservatories are often designed to provide additional living space and they tend to be used as a multipurpose room. An orangery, on the other hand, is typically seen as an extension of the home and used for entertaining guests.
Orangeries have higher ceilings, sometimes with fanlights and rooftop lanterns, and may include intricate details such as pediments, pilasters and moulded cornices. These features help create an elegant and inviting atmosphere which conservatories generally don’t possess.
Orangeries also provide a unique transition between their indoor and outdoor spaces and can help to transform a garden into an enjoyable outdoor space.
Can I convert a conservatory into an orangery?
Yes, you can convert a conservatory into an orangery. An orangery is an extension of the conservatory, featuring walls and a ceiling, which allow for better temperature control. The walls also allow for additional architectural features such as windows and doors.
Orangeries are usually made from brickwork, painted plaster or glass, and have a natural stone or concrete floor. The roof is usually glazed with sturdier materials than those used in a conservatory.
When converting a conservatory into an orangery, it’s important to consider the structure and insulation of the extension. The walls and roof should be built with insulation materials, as well as any plants and ornaments that you want to add.
You may also need to consider heating and lighting, as orangeries generally benefit from models that are specifically designed for the space. When all this is taken into account, you can enjoy an upgraded conservatory that provides an even better view of your garden and a much more comfortable space to spend time in.
Do orangeries need foundations?
Yes, orangeries need foundations in order to be properly and safely installed. The purpose of a foundation is to provide a stable and level base for the structure, so that it is secure and can withstand any environmental factors.
The type of foundation for an orangery will depend on the soil type and the size of the structure, and a qualified structural engineer should be consulted to determine the best option for your property.
Generally speaking, a shallow concrete foundation with steel reinforcements may be adequate for a small orangery, but a much deeper foundation, such as a strip footing, bored pile or pile cap, may be required for larger constructions.
It’s also important to consider the security of the structure, so adequate foundations can ensure that there are no terrible consequences if the orangery is subject to external forces. Ultimately, adequate foundations provide the necessary stability of the structure and give the assurance that it is secure and durable.
Do you need planning permission to turn a conservatory into a room?
The answer to this question is “it depends”. Each local authority has different planning regulations and rules in place, so it’s best to check with your local planning office to find out their specific policies.
Generally, if the project makes no changes to the existing structure of the house and the conversion does not result in an increase of floor space, then you’re unlikely to need planning permission. However, if the conversion involves making any significant changes to the structure or if it enlarges the overall size of the space then you are likely to need planning permission.
Before starting any work, it’s important to get your local authority’s approval. You may also need to make sure that your conservatory meets current Building Regulations, which are designed to ensure the safety of new and altered buildings.
Can I put a kitchen in a conservatory?
Yes, you can put a kitchen in a conservatory. However, before you do so, there are a few things to consider. These include the design of the conservatory, its location and whether or not the current foundations will be able to support the additional weight.
If you decide to go ahead, you’ll need to make sure that the kitchen is properly sealed, insulated, and heated. It’s also important to check that your conservatory meets all building regulations for kitchens, such as ventilation and plumbing.
And lastly, you may need to look into making other changes, such as extending the electrical lines, adding extra lighting, and making sure all appliances are safe to use in a conservatory.
What is classed as an orangery?
An orangery is a type of structure, typically attached to a home, that is typically made out of stone, brick or wood and has a glass roof and glass walls. It is usually a two-story building and often includes internal columns, large windows, and an open deck area.
It is sometimes referred to as a conservatory and is a great way to add more light and airy space to a home. An orangery can also be used as an extension of the living space in the home, providing a comfortable area to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Inside the orangery, some homeowners choose to include elements such as chairs and small tables or place a few potted plants to bring the outdoors inside. They are a great way to increase the usable space in a home and also add a lot of character to the property.
Is it illegal to have a radiator in a conservatory?
In most places, it is not illegal to have a radiator in a conservatory. Depending upon where you live, however, there may be local regulations or recommendations you must consider before installing one.
Some local regulations and building codes may not allow a radiator to be installed in a conservatory, as they may feel that they could represent a fire risk or that they could be an inconvenience to visitors.
Additionally, if the conservatory is poorly insulated and not designed to contain or redirect heat, having a radiator could be ineffective and a waste of energy.
Before installing a radiator in a conservatory, it is important to direct the heat away from glass windows and doors, as these can overheat and cause damage over time. Furthermore, you should make sure nearby materials are rated to hold up in these temperatures.
Additionally, installing a larger radiator will provide more efficient heating and local regulations should be taken into account, as some regulations can be more restrictive than others. It is recommended to consult with a local-licensed home improvement contractor or building inspector for assistance in determining if a radiator is a feasible option for your conservatory.
Is orangery an English word?
Yes, the word “orangery” is an English word. An orangery is a building or room designed as a charming architectural feature, usually with tall glass windows and doors, that is used to house orange trees and other types of citrus trees during the cooler months of the year.
Early orangeries were built by wealthy aristocrats in the 16th century, and today they are often used as greenhouses, conservatories, or even luxurious living spaces.
Which is cheaper extension or orangery?
Overall, an orangery will typically be more expensive than an extension however this can vary depending on several factors. For instance, the size of the orangery will be a major factor in determining the cost as a larger structure will cost more to build.
Additionally, if the property is listed or in a conservation area there may be specific regulations surrounding the construction of an orangery which can also drive up the cost. This is because additional permissions may need to be obtained and there may be restrictions on the type of building materials used as well as other features such as a roof light.
The choice of materials is also an important factor in determining the price of an orangery, with higher-end materials such as natural stone or timber being more expensive than lower-end options such as uPVC.
An extension is generally the cheaper option, although this will depend on the type and size of the extension as well as the materials used. The cost of an extension an also depend on any additional features such as fireplaces and built-in storage.
The labour costs of both an extension and an orangery will also influence the overall price, so it is important to get quotes from a range of contractors in order to get the best deal. Ultimately, the best way to determine which option is more cost effective is to review quotes from contractors to see which is the most competitively priced.
How much value will an orangery add to my house?
The amount of value an orangery can add to a house is hard to quantify as it will depend heavily on individual circumstances such as the property’s location and existing house prices. Generally speaking though, an orangery can add significant value to a property and has the potential to increase its market value by up to 10%.
Some of the factors that can influence the value an orangery can add include the choice of design, materials and the quality of construction. All of these will play a part in how much additional value the orangery adds to the house, so it’s important to take the time to find a contractor who is experienced in this area to guarantee a reliable and quality finish.
It is also important to consider the space or unused area around the house that the orangery may fill. If the orangery is added to an exposed part of the property, for example, this may add a large amount of natural light and more living space, which will add extra value to your home as potential buyers appreciate these extras.
Plus, an orangery can be used as an extra living area, and even a conservatory, adding lots of living and entertaining space to a house which is always attractive to potential buyers.
Finally, orangeries tend to be appreciated by potential buyers as they use quality materials and offer greater security, sound and weather insulation and are often cheaper than a conservatory or an extension.
All of these things contribute to adding value to your home and ensuring you get the highest possible return on investment when you come to sell.
Is an orangery cold in winter?
No, an orangery is not typically cold in the winter. Although an orangery is largely glass, the roof and walls are usually well insulated and the doors, windows, and glazing are usually double or triple glazed, providing a good barrier against cold air coming in.
Most orangeries also have adequate internal heating, which helps to keep the space warm and comfortable, even during the coldest months. Additionally, by having so much natural light coming into the space, the large amounts of heat coming from the sun really help to keep the orangery at a suitable temperature.
Of course, depending on your location, you may need additional heating to ensure that the space stays comfortable, and adequate ventilation is equally important to keep the air circulating and prevent the temperature from becoming too stuffy.
How do you keep an orangery warm in the winter?
Keeping an orangery warm in the winter requires a combination of insulation, heating, and temperature control. Insulating the walls and windows of the orangery is key, as it prevents heat from escaping.
Double or triple glazed windows are recommended for added insulation. Additionally, adding weather stripping to the windows and doors can be very effective. An appropriately sized heating system should be installed to allow for further temperature control.
Such systems may include an electric radiator, ceiling fan, space heater, or a gas or wood burning stove. Lastly, good ventilation is essential for trapping the warmth, especially during cold nights.
Having a window that can be opened to let a draft of cold air in, and then closed to trap the heated air can be very effective. Also, layering up by dressing the plants and furniture in blankets or covers when it gets especially cold can help retain heat.
Do you need to dig foundations for an orangery?
Yes, if you are adding an orangery to an existing building, you will need to dig foundations for it. Depending on the size and complexity of the orangery, this could require either reinforced concrete strip foundation or simple concrete pads.
It is important to check whether the existing foundations need any remedial work and to ensure that the foundations are sufficient to support the additional load of the orangery. In some cases, such as in the case of a new build orangery, pile foundations may be necessary.
It is best to consult a structural engineer who can assess the situation and advise on the most appropriate solution for your orangery.
Are modern conservatories warm in winter?
Yes, modern conservatories are warm in winter. To ensure the conservatory is warm, there are many methods and products that can be used. For example, high-performance double glazing can help to maintain the heat emanating from a heated internal environment and prevent heat from escaping from the conservatory.
In addition, a conservatory roof can be insulated to ensure that warmth is kept within the structure. Another option for natural insulation is to grow climbers, shrubs and creepers on the outside of the windows and walls, as these can help to maintain the heat inside.
Alternatively, the use of cold weather curtains can help to maintain temperature and trap in the heat generated by radiators or other sources of heat. Finally, installing permanent heating such as radiators or under floor heating in the conservatory can help to keep the room warm.
How do you heat up an orangery?
Heating an orangery can be achieved through a number of different methods, depending on the specific temperature requirements. For example, a traditional open fire may offer some degree of heat and an alternative to modern methods such as central heating.
Alternatively, a wood burning stove may provide more adequate heating and would allow for a more relaxed and homely atmosphere. Other modern methods that could be used to heat an orangery include electric radiators, heaters and even air conditioning.
When using electric heating, help can be found online to work out the number of radiators needed to adequately heat the space. Adding insulation to the walls and ceiling of the orangery can also help reduce the amount of heating power required to make it cosy.
Finally, as an orangery often serves as an extension of the home, you may want to consider connecting the orangery to the same heating system used for the rest of the house. This would enable the orangery to benefit from the same levels of heating as the rest of the property.
