An orangery can be one of the most inviting rooms in the home during autumn and winter. With generous glazing, views of the garden and the natural character of an oak frame, it can provide a bright space to enjoy even when the weather outside is cold and grey.
However, now autumn is knocking on the door, you may want to make a few changes to ensure your orangery feels warm, comfortable and welcoming throughout the colder months.
From heating and lighting to soft furnishings and seasonal styling, here are some ways to make the most of your orangery this autumn and winter.
Make sure your orangery is well insulated
The foundations of a comfortable orangery are established during its design and construction. High-quality insulation, appropriate glazing and a well-designed roof can all contribute to maintaining a comfortable internal temperature.
If you are planning a new orangery, discuss insulation and energy efficiency with your designer from the outset. A bespoke design can take into account the orientation of the property, the amount of glazing and how you intend to use the room.
For an existing orangery, check for obvious draughts around doors and windows and make sure seals are in good condition.
Choose the right heating
A good heating system can make your orangery much more comfortable when temperatures drop. Underfloor heating is one option that can provide consistent warmth without taking up wall space, making it particularly useful in rooms with large areas of glazing.
Radiators or other heating solutions may also be appropriate, depending on the design and existing heating system. If you are building a new orangery, heating is worth considering as part of the overall design rather than treating it as an afterthought.
Add rugs and soft furnishings
One of the simplest ways to make a room feel cosier is to introduce layers of texture. A large rug can make hard flooring feel warmer underfoot while helping to define different areas within an open-plan orangery.
Throws, cushions and upholstered furniture can add further comfort. Natural materials can work particularly well with oak framing. Wool, linen, cotton and other tactile fabrics can complement the warmth of the timber while creating a relaxed autumnal atmosphere.
Make the most of autumnal colours
You don’t need to go ‘full pumpkin spice’ to capture the essence of the season. Small changes can make a noticeable difference.
Warm neutral shades, earthy greens, deep reds, rust tones and natural wood can all create a more inviting autumn and winter feel. You could introduce these colours through cushions, throws, curtains, artwork or accessories.
Think about lighting
With sunset arriving earlier during autumn and winter, good lighting becomes particularly important. Layered lighting can make an orangery feel more comfortable after dark.
Combine practical overhead lighting with table lamps, floor lamps and smaller accent lights to create different levels of illumination.
Warm-toned lighting can help create a relaxed atmosphere, particularly in the evening. Decorative lamps or subtle lighting around furniture and architectural features can also draw attention to the character of the room.
Use curtains or blinds where appropriate
Large areas of glazing are one of the defining features of many orangeries, but window treatments can provide additional privacy and help create a cosier atmosphere.
Curtains, blinds or shutters can also change the appearance of the room depending on the style of your home. Traditional fabrics may complement a classic orangery, while simple blinds or shutters can work well in a contemporary design.
Consider how the window treatments look when open as well as closed. During the day, you will probably want to make the most of natural light and views across the garden.
Bring the garden indoors
An orangery is designed to create a connection between the house and garden, and autumn provides plenty of inspiration for embracing that relationship.
Houseplants, dried flowers, branches and natural materials can introduce seasonal interest without overwhelming the room. Even when the garden itself is becoming quieter, your orangery can remain connected to the landscape outside.
Enjoy your orangery all year round
An orangery does not have to become a room you avoid once summer ends. With the right design, heating, lighting and interior touches, it can become one of the cosiest parts of your home during autumn and winter.
From adding soft textures and seasonal colours to ensuring the underlying construction is designed for year-round comfort, a few thoughtful choices can help you enjoy your orangery whatever the weather.