Orangery vs Glass Box Extension: Which Is Right for Your Home?

When it comes to extending your home, few options are more eye-catching than a traditional orangery or a frameless glass box extension. Both can add light, space and value, but they offer very different results in terms of appearance and performance.

At Glass House Architecture, we design and build both styles. This article offers a clear, balanced comparison to help you decide which one is better suited to your home, your lifestyle and your long-term plans.

Appearance and Design Style

A traditional orangery has a classical structure with brick or stone elements, timber or hardwood frames, and a glazed roof lantern set into a flat or pitched roof. It blends old and new, offering architectural depth and character.

A glass box extension is the opposite. It focuses on minimalism. These extensions usually feature slim-profile glazing, no visible framing, and clean lines. They are designed to disappear visually and create a floating effect that works particularly well on modern or architecturally bold homes.

If you’re aiming for something timeless that feels like a natural part of a period property, an orangery may suit you better. If you want to make a contemporary statement with maximum transparency, the glass box offers a stronger design impact.

Natural Light and Views

Both options bring in plenty of daylight, but in different ways. Orangeries typically include a solid perimeter roof with a glazed lantern in the centre. This setup provides soft overhead light while avoiding excessive glare.

Glass boxes are fully glazed, including the roof. They provide uninterrupted views and extremely high levels of natural light. However, they can be more difficult to manage in terms of heat and solar gain, especially during warmer months.

We always specify the glass used in traditional orangeries to include solar control and insulation. This helps maintain clarity while keeping the space comfortable. We take the same approach in glass box designs, although the performance requirements are more demanding due to the greater exposure.

Comfort and Insulation

Orangeries are designed for everyday living. With insulated walls, a solid roof and high-performance glazing, they offer excellent temperature control throughout the year. We include underfloor heating, roof vents and, in many cases, triple glazing as standard.

Glass box extensions rely on glass for structure, insulation and climate control. Without the right coatings or shading systems, they can become too hot in summer or lose heat during colder months.

From a comfort perspective, the orangery is usually the better all-rounder for homes that are used year-round.

Use and Layout

Orangeries are highly versatile. We’ve built them as kitchens, garden lounges, dining rooms and multi-functional family spaces. They offer layout flexibility, with walls that can hold radiators, storage or fitted furniture.

Glass box extensions are typically best used as statement garden rooms or design-led lounge spaces. They are visually impressive but offer fewer practical layout options, especially when it comes to integrating services or traditional fittings.

If you need a liveable, functional space that feels like part of the home, an orangery is often more suitable. If the goal is architectural drama and simplicity, a glass box may be the right choice.

Materials and Craftsmanship

We build orangeries using oak, painted hardwood and brick or stone to match the existing property. Every detail, from the glazing bars to the door handles, is specified to suit the character of the home.

Glass boxes rely on structural glazing and high-precision engineering. Frames are minimal or hidden. Fixings and seals must be handled with care to avoid visual disruption or long-term maintenance issues.

Both types of structure demand quality materials and skilled craftsmanship, but in very different ways.

Planning Permission and Regulations

Planning permission may or may not be required for either option, depending on location and size. Orangeries tend to pass more easily through planning in conservation areas or on listed properties because they use sympathetic forms and traditional materials.

Glass box extensions are more visually distinct and may face closer scrutiny. In the right context, they are highly regarded. In heritage areas, planners often prefer a less contrasting approach.

We manage the planning process from start to finish. That includes handling permitted development, full applications and building regulations.

Cost and Complexity

The cost of a traditional orangery depends on size, specification and finish. It is a substantial build, often with bespoke glazing, premium timber and interior plasterwork. However, it is typically more straightforward to construct than a structural glass box.

Glass box extensions tend to cost more per square metre. They require custom glazing, specialist fittings and careful detailing. Installation is often more complex and weather-dependent.

For clients seeking a balance between quality and practicality, orangeries tend to offer more space and usability for the investment.

Maintenance and Longevity

Orangeries are straightforward to maintain. Painted hardwood and oak can be refinished. Brickwork is durable, and we use self-cleaning glass where appropriate. All finishes are chosen for longevity and ease of upkeep.

Glass boxes need regular roof and frame cleaning. The detailing must be carefully maintained to prevent seal failure, condensation or thermal bridging.

In terms of ongoing maintenance, the orangery usually offers greater resilience and less upkeep.

Summary: Which One Suits You?

Choose a traditional orangery if you want:

• A space that feels integrated with your home

• Warmth, structure and refined details

• Layout flexibility with space for furniture and fittings

• A smoother planning process for period homes

• Year-round comfort with insulation and proper shading

  
  

Choose a glass box extension if you want:

• A minimal, highly contemporary design

• Maximum connection to the outdoors

• Clean lines and transparent surfaces

• A visual contrast to an older property

• A bold architectural feature for entertaining or display

  
  

We offer both, and we guide clients through the decision based on what matters most to them.

Final Thoughts

Orangeries and glass box extensions both offer something unique. The right choice depends on your home, your vision and how you plan to use the space.

At Glass House Architecture, we work with clients to design the structure that truly fits. Whether it’s a refined orangery with timber detailing or a dramatic glass extension with panoramic views, we build spaces that feel considered, comfortable and crafted.