Thinking of having an orangery or garden room added to the back of your property? In this guide, we’ll explore the differences between garden rooms and orangeries and help you determine which one may better suit you. Let’s go!
What is a Garden Room?
While similar to an orangery (thanks to its semi-glazed walls), it alternatively has a roof consisting completely of tiles. This contrasts with an orangery’s roof lantern.
Garden rooms tend to seem part of the building it adjoins thanks to matching brickwork, matching tiles and more. Garden rooms are also often identifiable by their high roofline and stand-out glazed gable allowing a ton of natural light to enter. Garden rooms cost about £9,000 to £45,000.
A garden room will be perfect for listed properties or properties based in a conservation area. This is because they can uphold a property’s heritage with a matching design. However, it isn’t, of course, necessary that you live in such properties in order for a garden room to make sense.
Pros of a Garden Room:
- Can be built with ease
- Versatile and can be used in many ways
- A great option for listed properties
- Well-suited if you live in a conservation area
Cons of a Garden Room:
- Planning permission may be needed
- May not be your cup of tea
- Lacks the roof lantern of an orangery
What About an Orangery?
An orangery is a room/building that features a glass roof with an array of glazed windows and doors.
Orangeries tend to consist of stone or brick and often feature a flat roof with a central lantern or skylight. The purpose of using a skylight or central lantern is to allow a lot of natural light to enter. Average orangery prices land around £20,000 to £40,000 if considering medium-sized orangeries.
Orangeries are often used to host family meals or dinner parties. However, its luxurious heritage can stay evident in its overall design. Orangeries are also great for growing plants and trees not usually suited to cold weather including citrus trees. As conservatories have seen a decline in popularity, more and more households are turning to orangeries as a suitable alternative.
Pros of Orangeries:
- Orangeries are generally very spacious due to their long lantern roofs.
- The multi-purpose design may be employed for offices, playrooms, dining areas and more.
- Orangeries feature a high proportion of brickwork making it easy for them to gradually blend in with your home.
- Allow plenty of light in making them well-suited for growing certain plants or trees.
Cons of Orangeries:
- Orangeries tend to cost more than conservatories
- Maybe more extravagant than what you’re looking for
Which Is the Better Option for You?
Deciding between a garden room and orangery is no choice. Which option is better for you will primarily depend on your budget, preferences, and any other limitations that apply.
If you’d prefer a more affordable option, it will largely depend on the style and type since broadly, orangery and garden rooms do not greatly differ price-wise. If you’re looking for a small installation, a garden room may come out cheaper. However, when it comes to considering your budget, it’s best to get a quote for an orangery and a garden room if you want absolute clarity.
If you prefer extravagance an orangery might be the better option. Also, since orangeries let in plenty of light, they are the better option in relation to growing citrus trees and plants.
On the other hand, a garden room may make more sense if you live in a listed property or conservation area. Garden rooms are also a great choice if you’d like an extension/building that can be built with ease for your garden.
