Popular Accessories for a Traditional Orangery

Designing a bespoke orangery doesn’t stop at the frame and glazing. The accessories you choose can turn a beautiful structure into a truly liveable, year-round space. At Glass House Architecture, we help our clients finish their orangeries with the right lighting, shading, heating, and more, all chosen to suit traditional homes, so you can choose the right options, not the easiest ones.

Below are some of the most popular accessories we recommend. These ideas can help you get more from your space, whether you're creating a garden room, dining area, or cosy lounge.

Traditional wood orangery with hanging lantern

1. Roof Lantern Lighting

Most traditional orangeries feature a roof lantern. To make the most of it after dark, we install integrated lighting. You can opt for downlights set into the pelmet or pendant lighting that hangs from the centre. It’s a great way to highlight the height and shape of the roof.

Modern fittings can be dimmable and controlled by smart systems, so you always have the right atmosphere.

2. Underfloor Heating

Underfloor heating keeps your orangery warm without the need for visible radiators. It’s especially useful under stone or tiled flooring. We recommend this in most projects, as it keeps the room usable all year round and helps maintain a clean look.

Compared to a traditional brick extension, orangeries can feel cooler without proper heating, so this addition makes a real difference.

3. Ventilation Systems

Many clients forget about ventilation, but it’s essential for comfort. We offer roof vents, automatic openers, and trickle vents built into window frames. These allow for good airflow without compromising the look of the structure.

Ventilation works hand in hand with the type of glass you choose. In a traditional orangery, we typically use solar control glazing to manage temperature without losing light.

4. Bespoke Blinds or Curtains

Shading can help with both privacy and temperature control. We fit bespoke blinds into roof lanterns, side windows, and even bi-fold doors. Depending on your design, we can integrate manual or motorised options.

We also advise on fabric and colour, especially if you’re aiming for a soft, period-style finish.

Orangery with lighting on walls

5. Wall Lighting and Sockets

Electrical accessories should always be planned early. We install wall lighting, ceiling lights, floor sockets, and feature switches during the build. Traditional brass or black metal finishes work well with painted hardwood or oak.

As always, it’s best to avoid last-minute changes, one of the common mistakes to avoid when designing your orangery.

6. Smart Home Integration

More homeowners are asking for smart controls. These include remote heating, lighting, shading, and even music. We work with electricians to build these features into the walls and ceiling, so there’s no visible wiring.

This approach adds function without disrupting the classic look of a timber-framed orangery.

7. Radiators (Traditional or Discreet)

If underfloor heating isn’t your preference, you can still choose from a wide range of radiator styles. From column cast-iron radiators to slimline vertical units, we help you find an option that fits the space.

We often paint or match them to the joinery for a seamless look. They’re especially useful in smaller orangeries where floor space is limited.

8. Furniture and Flooring

Although not an “accessory” in the usual sense, your furniture and flooring choices can have a big impact. We help many clients plan for oak flooring, limestone flags, or parquet, depending on the property’s character.

The most successful orangeries feel like a natural extension of the home. This comes down to detail, matching skirting boards, soft furnishings, and period-style furniture make a big difference.

9. Internal Joinery and Window Furniture

Handles, hinges, and latches are all part of the finished feel. We offer a selection of window and door furniture in styles that suit traditional homes. These include aged brass, pewter, and hand-forged iron.

We also design internal joinery details like architraves and cornices to suit your architectural style. These features are subtle, but they help reinforce the identity of a classical orangery.

Traditional orangery

10. Decorative Features

Some clients want extra features to match a listed or period property. We’ve added internal pilasters, timber panelling, ceiling roses, and bespoke cornicing to enhance the interior finish.

Externally, we can incorporate crestings, finials, and traditional roof detailing to match the character of your home, just one of many architectural features that define an orangery.

11. Lighting Controls and Zones

If your orangery will have multiple uses, for example, a kitchen and sitting area, we suggest splitting the lighting into zones. This allows you to control different areas separately, helping create the right mood in each space.

Lighting design is often overlooked during early planning, but it’s an important step that ensures long-term comfort.

12. Built-in Storage and Seating

In some of our more compact orangeries, we include custom bench seating, corner units, or shelving to make the most of the space. These features are designed during the initial layout stage, so they feel like part of the build, not an afterthought.

They’re particularly useful in side-return orangeries and small garden rooms.

A Quick Note on Planning and Cost

Accessories like these can usually be included without affecting planning permission, though we still advise checking early in the process. A well-fitted traditional orangery is a significant investment, and these finishing touches can influence the overall cost and comfort level.

Compared to a glass box extension, orangeries offer more room for lighting, joinery, and decoration. Compared to a conservatory or winter garden, they also support heavier fittings thanks to their solid roof and walls.

We work with a wide range of materials and can advise on what’s suitable for each property. Whether you choose oak, painted hardwood, or a blend of timber and brick, there are plenty of options.

Final Thoughts

A traditional orangery is more than just a structure; it’s a space you’ll live in every day. Accessories like lighting, heating, blinds, and joinery help make that space comfortable, beautiful, and tailored to your home.

Whatever your style, we’re here to help you make it truly yours.