bring the inside out

Question: When is a conservatory not a conservatory?

 

Answer: When it is an orangerie or extension.

 

That might well be the most disappointing Christmas cracker joke going, but there is a bit of confusion out there. So let’s clear this up.

 

A conservatory is a glass structure with a brick base and glazed roof. The predominant use of glass made conservatories of the past notorious cold in the winter and sweltering in the summer and often became the a disused home enhancement. With modern methods of glazing and design, together with alternative roofing options, these are now beautiful year-round extensions to living space.

 

An orangery has the brick base, but a flat roof with glass lantern. Favoured by the well-to-do in grand properties, orangeries were like ornate greenhouses harbouring exotic fauna built at the side of the main house. Orangeries don’t always have to be built flush to the side of a building and can be constructed to provide an additional structure in the grounds of your home.

 

The difference between the conservatory or orangerie option to that of an extension, is that an extension is deemed ‘inhabitable’ due to the more robust structural build and usually blends into the look of the building as a whole rather than a ‘feature’. An extension could used as any room of the house - living space, kitchen, bathroom, bedroom and are utilised all year round and can be built anywhere that space permits.  Extensions may require planning permission and will most certainly need to meet building regulation approval - all of which we can help with.

 

There are some incredible options available - whether you’re looking for a traditional, classic space to enjoy your outside views, or if you’re looking for a breathtaking, modern entertaining space.