Roof Types for Traditional Orangeries

The roof is one of the most defining elements of a traditional orangery. It shapes the interior feel, affects light levels, and plays a major role in insulation and comfort.

At Glass House Architecture, we design and build orangeries with roof types that combine classical elegance with modern performance. This article explains what roof formats we offer, why we use them, and how they contribute to the overall success of each project.

Our Standard: Flat Roof with Glazed Lantern

The flat roof with a central glazed lantern is the most common and recognisable style we use. It offers the best of both worlds, solid construction around the perimeter for warmth and structure, with a beautifully crafted rooflight in the middle that floods the space with daylight.

This format suits everything from Georgian townhouses to countryside homes. It’s also a strong choice for clients seeking symmetry, elegance, and comfort throughout the year.

In one of our recent case studies, this roof type was used to extend a period property in Kent, creating a bright garden room with French doors and tall timber windows. The central lantern helped retain the room’s height while creating a natural focal point above the dining table.

Timber-Framed Lanterns

Every lantern we build is crafted from high-quality hardwood or, in some cases, slim-profile aluminium for larger spans. We avoid bulky PVC systems. These are designed for mass production, not heritage settings.

Each lantern is built with thermal performance in mind. We use solar control and low-iron glazing to manage heat and clarity, with options for self-cleaning coatings. The timber detailing is finished with traditional cornices or crestings where appropriate.

As with the glass used in a traditional orangery, this roof glazing is carefully selected to meet modern U-value standards without compromising on appearance.

Double Lantern Roofs

In larger orangeries, particularly those spanning the full width of a home, we may recommend a double lantern format. This balances light across a wider space and creates two distinct ceiling zones beneath each glazed section.

It’s an elegant solution when the layout includes both a lounge and a dining area, or when the orangery acts as an open-plan kitchen extension. The double lantern keeps both ends of the room feeling open and evenly lit.

This option also pairs well with accessories like zone lighting and underfloor heating, which we integrate early in the design phase.

Shallow Pitched Roofs with Lantern Insert

In some builds, especially where height restrictions or architectural proportions call for it, we construct a shallow-pitched roof with a lantern insert. This allows for more varied roof angles while still maintaining the core principles of an orangery — balance, comfort and natural light.

Compared to a fully flat roof, this version adds a little more structure externally. Internally, it still delivers a ceiling detail that feels warm and refined.

This design was used in a recent orangery for a Victorian villa, where planning required a lower roofline. The result was a restrained, elegant space with just the right amount of daylight from above.

What About Fully Glazed Roofs?

We don’t typically build orangeries with fully glazed roofs. While visually striking, they’re more suited to conservatories or winter gardens, where exposure is part of the appeal.

Traditional orangeries are defined by the presence of a solid roof structure with a lantern or similar central feature. It’s this balance of glass and structure that sets the orangery apart, both in visual style and in performance.

Warmth and Insulation

All our roofs are built using highly insulated materials, including multi-layered warm roof systems. These exceed building regulations and provide year-round comfort — a key consideration when evaluating the pros and cons of different roof types.

Combined with proper glazing and heating, even large orangeries remain warm in winter and cool in summer. This performance is essential when positioning an orangery as a true extension of the home.

Roofing Materials and External Finishes

The external surface of our orangery roofs is typically finished in a material that complements the home. That may be a lead-look finish, a flat roofing membrane, or in some cases, zinc or powder-coated trims.

The visible lantern cappings are kept slim and are colour-matched to the joinery, maintaining a coherent look whether viewed from inside or out.

These materials are chosen not just for appearance but for long-term durability and easy maintenance.

Internal Ceiling Detail

Internally, the flat roof design allows for a perimeter ceiling pelmet. This adds depth to the ceiling and creates space for downlights or hidden strip lighting. We often use this area for integrated accessories such as speakers, lighting zones, or smart climate controls.

Clients often comment that this element helps make the room feel like a true part of the home rather than a glazed add-on. Compared to a brick extension, the orangery feels lighter. Compared to a glass box, it feels warmer.

Planning Permission Considerations

Roof height, pitch and design all influence planning permission outcomes. Flat roofs with lanterns are often accepted more easily in conservation areas, as they sit lower and match the rear elevation more closely.

We consider all of this during the design process and handle planning applications on behalf of the client, especially where listed buildings are involved.

Cost Implications

The cost of a traditional orangery varies with the size and complexity of the roof. A single lantern format is usually the most cost-efficient. Double lanterns or shaped roofs require more structure, engineering and labour — but deliver a more tailored result.

We break down all roof components clearly in our pricing, so clients can understand how different roof types affect the overall budget.

Summary of Roof Types We Offer

• Flat roof with central glazed lantern

• Double lantern roof for wider spaces

• Shallow-pitched roof with lantern insert

All designs are constructed using high-quality insulated materials, detailed timber joinery and precision glazing. They’re tailored to the home and finished to the same standard as the main property.

Final Thoughts

The roof defines an orangery. It brings in light, holds in warmth, and frames the experience of the room beneath it. At Glass House Architecture, we design each roof to complement the home, suit the site, and perform for years to come.

Our focus is always on timeless structure, not trends. A well-designed orangery roof is something you’ll never need to question, and that’s exactly how it should be.