The traditional image of an orangery might be a large extension on a detached home with beautiful grounds, but in fact they are much more versatile structures than you might assume. Here’s a look at the benefits of adding a small orangery to your home, when outside space might be limited, or it simply suits your needs.
Ideal for townhouses and small urban homes
Traditional townhouses or smaller semi-detached homes may not have the space for a bricks and mortar extension. A smaller orangery is often a perfect compromise, allowing you to increase the footprint of your home without overtaking the entire back yard or garden.
In many cases, you will not require planning permission for an orangery extension, as they fall within permitted development rights. However, there may be certain caveats, particularly if you live within a conservation area, in a listed building, or the proposed extension will take up more than 50 per cent of the outdoor space.
It’s always best to check with your local planning office before going ahead with an extension to your property.
Make use of dead or awkward spaces
If your property has an unusual layout, or there is dead outdoor space where nothing will grow, then a professional designer may be able to find the perfect solution with a clever design that transforms it into an attractive and useful space. This not only adds to your convenience and enjoyment but also improves the overall appearance of your property.
Even if you think it would be unfeasible to add an orangery to your home, you might be surprised what can be achieved, so it’s worth consulting a professional designer who will be able to spot opportunities that you didn’t realise existed.
An ideal solution for smaller budgets
If you are longing for a little extra space, but do not have the budget for a larger extension, then a compact orangery may be the solution. There will be fewer materials and a simpler design and construction process involved, so this will be more affordable than a larger project.
You will also have less disruption during the construction phase, as this will naturally be quicker and there will be less potential for delays such as adverse weather conditions or holdups with the delivery of materials.
Lower maintenance costs
A compact orangery will have fewer ongoing maintenance costs, and will be easier to keep clean and in good condition. This will help you to enjoy your extension to the full, and also prolong its lifespan. Furthermore, you will spend less on interior decor and furnishings, and it will be easier to heat during the winter months and to keep cool in the summer.
Increased value to your home
Even a small extension will significantly add to the footprint of a compact home, and this can boost the market value should you wish to sell it in the future. In towns and cities where living space is at a premium, every square inch counts. This will be particularly the case if you choose a quality orangery that complements the style of your home.
The potential uses for a small orangery
A smaller extension can still be a versatile addition to your home. You may simply wish to have a cosy and light filled sitting area, where you can enjoy the views of your yard or garden, read, or work on a craft or hobby.
You could fit a small bistro table and chairs into the orangery, providing an attractive place to savour your morning coffee or to enjoy a pleasant lunch, or summer evening meal. It may also be possible to integrate the extension with your existing indoor space, such as the dining room or even the kitchen.
This will open up the interior and transform it into a more spacious living area that is flooded with natural light. This can be a very attractive feature in urban homes, where access to light is often more limited.
You may even wish to use your orangery for their historical purpose: growing plants. The large glazed windows and doors make ideal growing conditions for a variety of indoor plants, including low-maintenance succulents, climbing and trailing plants, and even small trees and shrubs.
The green-fingered will be able to grow all manner of exotic species, including of course citrus fruit trees!