Different uses for an orangery - kitchens and more
- Glass House Architecture
- Jul 10
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 13
At Glass House Architecture, we design orangeries that feel like a natural part of your home. Whether you live in a countryside manor or a Georgian townhouse, a well-planned hardwood orangery can enhance your space and connect it beautifully to the garden.
Each orangery also comes with practical considerations. The right materials, glass specification, and planning advice can make a big difference. Costs vary depending on size and design, but we’re always happy to help you explore your options.
Compared to a brick extension, an orangery offers more light and elegance. Compared to a modern glass box, it feels warmer and more in keeping with period homes. And if you're wondering how it differs from a conservatory or winter garden, the key difference is the structure. A traditional orangery has more solid roofing, more character, and more lasting value.
Here are some orangery styles that we hope will inspire you to design your own with us.
1. The Garden Room Orangery
One of the most timeless styles is a garden room orangery. This design often includes tall French doors, timber-framed windows, and a central roof lantern. It’s ideal for relaxed living, reading, or entertaining, with soft natural light and views over the lawn or patio.
We often recommend this style for homeowners who want something elegant but low-maintenance. With the right glazing and heating, it can be used comfortably all year round.
2. Orangery Dining Room
A dining orangery creates a special place for meals with family and friends. We’ve designed oak-framed spaces with large tables centred under roof lanterns, surrounded by windows that open onto garden terraces. These rooms feel bright during the day and cosy at night.
For period properties, we match the roof pitch and detailing to the existing structure so it feels cohesive. Compared to a glass box extension, this option feels warmer and more private, while still offering great views.
3. Side Return Orangery
For homes with limited space, especially in cities, a side return orangery is a clever way to make use of unused garden space. These orangeries are narrow but still full of charm. They can house a dining nook, garden snug, or even a small home office.
We design them to maximise glazing while respecting privacy. Compared to a full-width rear extension, this option is quicker to build and often doesn’t require planning permission.
4. Kitchen Orangery Extension
Many of our clients want a larger kitchen but don’t want to lose the character of their home. A kitchen orangery is the perfect answer. We design them to flow naturally from the main house, using timber windows and solid roof sections to match the original style.
This type of orangery often includes roof vents, bi-folding doors, and underfloor heating. It brings light and space into your kitchen while maintaining the solid feel of a traditional extension.
5. Orangery with Brick Base
A brick-based orangery is ideal for blending old and new. We often use reclaimed or matching brickwork at the base, with painted timber above. This creates a traditional aesthetic that suits listed buildings and historic homes.
Clients often choose this style when they want their orangery to feel more like a formal room than a garden room. It works especially well as a drawing room or music room.
6. Twin Lantern Orangery
For larger homes or wide rear elevations, we sometimes design orangeries with two roof lanterns instead of one. This creates symmetry and brings even more daylight into the space. It’s a great option for orangery kitchens or open-plan living rooms.
We’ve used this approach in properties with long rear façades, especially where a single lantern might feel out of proportion. The twin lantern layout also allows for multiple zones within the same room.
7. Orangery with Classical Detailing
We’re often asked to design orangeries that echo Georgian or Victorian styles. These usually include cornices, columns, and balanced window proportions. When paired with oak or painted hardwood, they look completely at home alongside period architecture.
For those seeking a heritage look, we can incorporate roof lanterns with crestings and finials, sash-style windows, and decorative parapets. These details make the orangery feel like it has always been part of the property.
8. Compact Orangery for Small Homes
Even small homes can enjoy a beautifully crafted orangery. We’ve created compact versions with just enough room for a table and chairs or a two-seater sofa. These are often used as morning rooms or garden studios.
We keep the footprint modest, but never compromise on materials or proportions. Smart glazing, lighting, and heating make these spaces just as comfortable as larger builds.
9. Oak-Frame Orangery with Rustic Charm
Some clients prefer a more natural look, especially in rural settings. For these homes, we often recommend exposed oak frames and softer tones. These orangeries age beautifully over time and suit stone cottages, barns, and farmhouse conversions.
Compared to a modern extension, they feel warmer and more traditional, perfect for properties in conservation areas or Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
10. Dual-Use Orangery (Lounge + Workspace)
Multi-purpose orangeries are increasingly popular. We’ve helped clients design spaces that combine a lounge area with a reading nook or home office. This works particularly well in wide, shallow layouts with good lighting throughout.
If you’re not sure how you’ll use the space long term, we can help you plan a flexible layout. Storage, lighting, and heating can all be tailored for dual use.
Final Thoughts
Traditional orangeries come in many forms, from compact garden rooms to grand open-plan extensions. Whether you prefer painted hardwood or exposed oak, every build we create is made to measure and designed to last.
For more inspiration or to explore your own ideas, browse our gallery of completed orangeries.
