Orangeries have become a favourite architectural feature for British people, but how did these stylish garden rooms become so popular? Well, they have been in use since Roman times, for growing exotic fruits and flowers. In Britain, the first permanent structures for growing plants were built in the late 17th century.
These were elegant single storey buildings with large, south facing windows that became a staple of the British manor house. The pleasant surroundings and sunny location made them an inviting place to sit when the plants were moved outdoors during warmer months. Here’s some celebrated examples from the 19th century.
Lyme Hall, Cheshire
Lyme Hall, romantically situated on high moorland on the edge of the Peak District, is set in extensive grounds and beautifully landscaped gardens. Originally built in the 14th century, it was renovated by the Venetian architect Giacomo Leoni in the 1720’s.
The orangery was added by Lewis Wyatt at some point in the mid 19th century. Fans of the 1995 BBC adaptation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice will recognise it from the famous scenes where Elizabeth meets Mr Darcy in the grounds of Pemberley!
Clumber Park, Nottinghamshire
The long-range glasshouse in Clumber Park is 450ft in length, and was built by in part by James Gray in the mid 19th century. As glass became cheaper and heating more effective, the plants became larger and more exotic, with tropical palms, ferns, and orchids grown. The structure contains some beautifully detailed cast iron and woodwork.
Tyntesfield Estate, North Somerset
The architecturally significant orangery on the Tyntesfield Estate is a rare later Victorian example in the Classical style. It was built in 1897, and when it was acquired by the National Trust in 2002 it had fallen into disrepair. The Trust painstakingly restored it with Bath stone and by 2013 the beautiful building was once again open to the public.