Orangery Design for UK Gardens
When you think of an orangery, a sunlit, glass-walled extension designed to bring the outdoors in while offering a comfortable indoor-outdoor space. Also known as a glasshouse extension, it’s more than just a fancy room—it’s a year-round living area that blends architecture with nature. Unlike a conservatory, which leans heavily on glass and can get too hot or cold, a proper orangery has solid brick or stone walls, a flat or low-pitched roof with a central glass panel, and often includes heating and insulation built in. This makes it ideal for the UK’s changeable weather—cool enough in summer, warm enough in winter.
People in the UK are choosing orangeries because they add real value, not just looks. A well-designed orangery connects directly to the garden, creating a seamless flow from indoors to outdoors. It’s not just about glass and frames—it’s about how you use the space. Think morning coffee with the sun on your face, evening dinners under soft lights, or even a quiet reading nook tucked beside a potted olive tree. Many designs include underfloor heating, smart blinds, and integrated lighting to make the space usable all year. And since it’s part of the house, not a separate structure, it feels like a natural extension of your living area.
What makes an orangery work in a UK garden? It’s not just the structure—it’s the details. The right flooring, like porcelain tiles that mimic stone, keeps it cool in summer and warm in winter. Choosing the right plants matters too—olives, citrus trees, and hardy ferns thrive near the edges. Landscaping around it helps tie it all together: low hedges, gravel paths, or even a small water feature can make the transition from garden to orangery feel effortless. And don’t forget the roof—modern orangeries often use insulated glass or solar-controlled panels to reduce glare and heat buildup, something older designs never considered.
You’ll find in the posts below real examples of how people are using orangeries in UK homes—not just as fancy additions, but as functional, everyday spaces. From how to pick the right size for your property, to what plants actually survive in them, to how to avoid the common mistakes that turn a dream space into a drafty room, these guides cover what works. Whether you’re planning a new build or upgrading an existing structure, you’ll find practical advice that skips the fluff and gets straight to what matters: making your orangery feel like home.