Choose a Conservatory If...
You want a bright, glass-focused extension with strong garden views, plenty of natural light and generally a simpler construction.
Extension Comparison Guide
What Is the Difference Between Conservatories and Orangeries?
Conservatories and orangeries are both popular ways to add extra living space and natural light to a home, but they differ in their construction, appearance, roof design and overall feel.
Understanding the main differences can make it easier to decide which style of extension best suits your property, budget and how you plan to use the new space.
At a Glance
Conservatory or Orangery?
Choose an Orangery If...
You prefer a more substantial, room-like extension with more solid construction, a roof lantern and greater separation between glazed and solid areas.
Conservatories
What Is a Conservatory?
A Glass-Focused Extension
A conservatory is a largely glazed extension, commonly installed to the rear of a property. Modern conservatories are used as living rooms, dining areas, home offices, lounges and other flexible spaces.
Bright and Open
Conservatories typically use more glazing than orangeries, helping create a bright, airy room with strong views of the garden and a close connection to the outdoors.
Natural Light
Large glazed areas help maximise daylight throughout the extension.
Flexible Designs
Conservatories are available in a wide range of styles, including Victorian, Edwardian and other bespoke designs.
Lower Build Complexity
Their lighter construction can make conservatories a more affordable option than a more substantial orangery build.
Orangeries
What Is an Orangery?
A More Substantial Extension
An orangery generally uses more solid wall and roof construction than a conservatory, giving the room a more permanent and integrated feel.
Roof Lantern Design
Many orangeries feature a central glazed roof lantern surrounded by a more solid roof area. This allows natural light into the room while retaining a more traditional room-like appearance.
Solid Construction
Brickwork, columns and solid roof sections can help the extension feel like a natural continuation of the existing home.
Flexible Living Space
Orangeries can work well as dining rooms, lounges, kitchens, offices and other multi-purpose living spaces.
Wide Design Choice
Different roof systems, finishes and frame options allow an orangery to be tailored to the style of the property.
Key Differences
Conservatory vs Orangery: What Is the Difference?
| Feature | Conservatory | Orangery |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Design | More glass-focused | More solid and room-like |
| Roof | Often largely glazed | Often solid around a glazed roof lantern |
| Walls | Greater proportion of glazing | More brickwork or solid sections |
| Natural Light | Very high | High, particularly around the lantern |
| Room Feel | Bright and garden-focused | Closer to a traditional internal room |
| Typical Cost | Usually lower | Usually higher due to the more substantial construction |
| Best For | Light, garden views and a simpler extension | Integrated living space and a more substantial finish |
Comfort
Which Is Better for Year-Round Use?
Conservatory Comfort
Because conservatories contain a large amount of glazing, their comfort can depend heavily on the quality of the glass, roof system, ventilation and overall insulation.
Orangery Comfort
The greater proportion of solid construction in many orangeries can make them feel more like a conventional room, particularly when combined with suitable glazing and roof insulation.
Your Lifestyle
How Will You Use the New Space?
For Garden Views and Natural Light
A conservatory can be a strong choice if your priority is creating a bright space with expansive glazing and a close visual connection to the garden.
For an Extended Living Area
An orangery can be particularly suitable if you want the extension to feel more like another permanent room within the home.
The Decision
Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between an orangery and a conservatory depends on your budget, property style, preferred appearance and how you intend to use the extra space.
Choose a Conservatory
Choose a conservatory if you want an airy, glass-focused extension with plenty of daylight and garden views, particularly where budget is an important consideration.
Choose an Orangery
Choose an orangery if you prefer a more substantial extension with more solid construction, a roof lantern and a stronger room-like feel.
Final Thoughts
Conservatory or Orangery?
Both conservatories and orangeries can provide valuable additional living space while bringing more natural light into the home.
A conservatory typically offers a brighter, more glazed connection with the garden, while an orangery generally provides a more substantial extension with additional solid construction and a room-like appearance.
Understanding these differences can help you choose the option that best suits your property, lifestyle and budget.
Still Choosing Between a Conservatory and Orangery?
Explore both extension styles or speak to St Helens Windows about the right option for your home.