Adding an orangery is one of the most significant improvements you can make to your home. A well-designed orangery creates valuable living space, floods your home with natural light and can enhance both your lifestyle and your property’s appeal.
However, achieving the best result depends on choosing the right company to bring your vision to life. With many businesses offering conservatories, extensions and orangeries, it can be difficult to know where to begin.
Looking beyond the headline price and taking time to assess experience, quality and service will help ensure your investment stands the test of time. Here are some of the key factors to consider when choosing an orangery company in the UK.
Look for experience with bespoke orangeries
Some businesses focus on standard conservatory installations, while others have extensive experience designing and manufacturing bespoke orangeries that complement a property’s architecture.
A specialist company should be able to demonstrate expertise in creating a range of styles, including:
- Traditional orangeries
- Contemporary designs
- Oak framed orangeries
- Period-inspired extensions
Experience is particularly important if your home has unusual features, is a period property or requires a design that blends seamlessly with the existing building.
Review previous projects
A reputable orangery company should be proud to showcase its work. Looking through completed projects allows you to assess the quality of design, craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Rather than focusing solely on the orangery itself, consider how well each project complements the original property.
Ask yourself:
- Does the orangery look like a natural extension of the home?
- Are the proportions balanced?
- Is the standard of finish consistent?
- Do the materials appear high quality?
Viewing a range of completed projects can also provide inspiration for your own design.
Ask about the design process
Every successful orangery starts with good design. A professional company will take the time to understand your home, your lifestyle and how you intend to use the new space before recommending a solution.
During the design stage, they should discuss:
- The best position for the orangery
- Natural light and orientation
- Roof options
- Glazing choices
- Access to the garden
- Interior layout
This collaborative approach helps ensure the finished orangery is tailored to your needs rather than based on a standard template.
Consider the quality of materials
The materials used will have a major impact on the appearance, durability and energy efficiency of your orangery.
Ask what materials are used for:
- Frames
- Glazing
- Roofing
- Brickwork
- Doors
- Flooring and finishing options
For example, an oak framed orangery offers timeless character and craftsmanship, while high-performance glazing and insulated roof systems help create a comfortable room that can be enjoyed throughout the year.
Investing in quality materials often reduces maintenance requirements and improves long-term value.
Check energy efficiency
Modern orangeries should be designed for year-round use.
Ask about features such as:
- Energy-efficient glazing
- Low-E glass
- Solar-control coatings
- Insulated roofs
- Ventilation systems
- Weatherproof seals
These elements work together to keep the room warm in winter, cooler during the summer and comfortable regardless of the season.
A knowledgeable company should be able to explain how these features contribute to the overall performance of the orangery.
Understand what’s included in the quotation
When comparing quotes, it’s important to understand exactly what is included.
A detailed quotation should clearly explain:
- Design services
- Materials
- Installation
- Project management
- Timescales
- Guarantees or warranties
The cheapest quote isn’t always the best value if important elements have been omitted or lower-quality materials have been specified. A transparent quotation allows you to compare companies on a like-for-like basis.
Ask about planning and building regulations
Depending on the size and design of your orangery, planning permission or building regulations approval may be required.
An experienced orangery company should be able to advise on the relevant requirements and explain how the project will comply with current regulations.
Having guidance throughout this process can make the project much smoother and give you greater confidence from the outset.
Communication is just as important as construction
Building an orangery is a collaborative process, so good communication is essential. Choose a company that listens carefully, answers questions clearly and keeps you informed throughout every stage of the project.
You’ll likely work closely with the team for several months, so professionalism, responsiveness and transparency are just as valuable as technical expertise.
Invest in the right partner for your project
A beautifully designed orangery is an investment that can transform the way you live in your home.
Choosing the right company from the start is one of the most important steps in ensuring your new space is every bit as functional, comfortable and elegant as you imagined.