The difference between a Conservatory and an Orangery

Have you ever wondered what the differences between a conservatory and an orangery are? We’re here to help you understand and decide which one is right for your home!

What is an Orangery?

An orangery is made up of part glazed and part solid brick walls, usually featuring a roof lantern - a great addition for letting natural light into your property. Many also offer underfloor heating to ensure your orangery stays warm all year round.

Compared to a conservatory, the orangery has the advantage of a flat roof and internal ceiling areas which can be heavily insulated along with insulated walls and an insulated base. The ability to stay warm throughout the year is a key factor, as they were originally built to preserve citrus fruits during winter.

Since the first orangeries were built, times have changed - there are now countless designs and features available to make your orangery completely bespoke to your home. 

What is a Conservatory?

A conservatory is an elegant glass extension on your home. Just like orangeries, conservatories were originally built to preserve citrus fruits and plants that weren’t native to the UK during winter. Nowadays, both are used for a wide variety of purposes.

The amount of roof that is glazed is one of the main differences between a conservatory and an orangery as, conservatories tend to have 75% or more roof glazing than orangeries, letting in much more natural light.

What are the Differences?

A conservatory usually:

• Has little brickwork – mainly made up of glass to let in the maximum amount of natural light
• Has a fully glazed roof
• Brings you closer to your garden – a connecting room to bring your garden and home together

Conservatories tend to act as a more cost-effective and complete extension of your house, sharing the same or similar design as the rest of your home, making it feel just like an additional room.

An orangery usually has:

• Less glass overall compared to a conservatory
• Brick built pillars
• The ability to offer more privacy – great for a dining or relaxing area

An orangery adds a touch of class, is different from the interior of the house and tends to involve brickwork, large windows and a glass roof.  

Overall, conservatories use little brickwork and are more about viewing the garden from a room that feels like a part of the house, whilst an orangery is usually larger – sometimes considered a private space, highlighting the luxury aspect.

If you’re still unsure about which is right for your home, get in touch with a member of the team today! Whether you are looking at an oak framed orangery or conservatory, our team of Hampshire joiners can help you make the right decision; Input Joinery's luxury bespoke orangeries and conservatories are designed to suit you and your home.