The spring has brought us some lovely settled sunny weather so far this year; perfect conditions for enjoying an orangery. However, if you have an older style orangery, or perhaps a dated conservatory, you may have stopped enjoying using the space. Perhaps it gets too uncomfortably hot in the summer, and is too chilly in the winter.
Maybe it is too small to be of much practical use as your family has grown or your needs have changed, or perhaps it is just a tired and unwelcoming space that is in need of extensive maintenance and repair work. Spring is a perfect time to consider an upgrade or even a replacement of your existing glazed structure.
Advancements in design and materials mean that it is possible to combine a traditional Victorian style orangery with all the modern benefits of energy efficiency and comfort. This allows you to enjoy a multi-purpose space that is a pleasure to use all year round, with no compromise on aesthetics.
Reasons to consider an upgrade
For a more aesthetically pleasing structure
If your existing structure is looking a little shabby, or you inherited it from the previous owners of the property and you feel that it does not complement the architectural style of the rest of the house, then an upgrade could be the perfect solution.
For example, if you own a period property, then a hardwood or Victorian orangery may be more suited than glazed extension with uPVC or aluminum frames. A more sympathetic and stylish update will increase your enjoyment of the space, as well as boost the kerb appeal and market value of your property.
For greater energy efficiency and temperature regulation
Glazing technology has progressed considerably in recent years, so if you find that your orangery is too cold and draughty to use in the winter, and becomes too hot in the summer, then investing in modern energy efficient glass could be the solution.
Older glazed structures may have been constructed with inferior materials, and have been subject to weathering and the general wear and tear that each passing year brings. This means that they will become increasingly difficult to heat and maintain, leading to higher energy bills.
The joins can develop small gaps or cracks, and the lack of temperature control encourages mould and condensation. A modern upgrade will have a much higher standard of insulation and can use high performance glass that is designed to retain solar gain in the winter, and deflect the sun’s heat in summer.
Modern glazing can also enhance the soundproofing of your orangery, so you will not be disturbed by rain and winter, traffic or noisy neighbours.
For greater versatility of use
Your existing glazed structure can be re-styled to fit your lifestyle and needs, such as enhanced sense of connection between your home and garden, or to create an open-plan living space that accommodates a kitchen extension and dining area.
In fact, with underfloor heating and modern insulation and glazing techniques, it is possible to use an orangery for almost any purpose you wish. This will bring you excellent return on your investment, with an increased floorspace of your home that will be comfortable and pleasant to use at any time of the year.
A combination of modern materials and traditional style
Whatever the style of your property, there will be a bespoke conservatory or orangery design that will be the perfect fit. For example, the classic roof lantern of a Victorian orangery can be combined with thermally efficient materials, so you will enjoy the benefits of enhanced natural light without the draughts or noise of rain.
The brickwork and stone features can be matched closely to the existing masonry style of your property, while the frames can be supplied in bespoke finishes such as natural wood, heritage green, or cream to add to the uniqueness and charm of the extension.
So there you have it: there is no need to compromise on aesthetics when you upgrade to a modern orangery. Talk to your local supplier about a bespoke design that is a beautiful blend of the best of old style and modern materials.