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A common misunderstanding is that conservatories and orangeries are the same thing. In previous years they were distinctly different but more modern designs of both have narrowed their differences. This article will help you to distinguish the key variations between them.
A Brief History of Conservatories and Orangeries
During the 17th Century in Holland and Italy, orangeries were created to house exotic fruits such as oranges hence the name. They were created as they utilised a glass panelling structure to enable a greater capture of heat meaning that Europeans were enabled to grow fruit which they previously could not. They were used as a status symbol to show off its imposing architecture and the exotic plants they housed.
During the 19th Century, there was a move towards wholly glass structures which brought about the creation of conservatories to house exotic plants and wildlife instead. Architects of the 1950s, ’60s and ’70s progressed the idea of a simple sunroom to the Victorian-styled conservatories you see today. This was done by incorporating more glass into the design from the roof having over 75% glass in it to the walls having over 50% of glass.
What is an Orangery?
Orangeries are primarily brick-based structures with long, high windows and a flat roof which usually incorporate a glass lantern-type design to allow plenty of natural light into your home.
They are a mixture between an extension and a conservatory, providing the key benefits of both such as light, space, warmth and security.
What are Conservatories?
For a structure to be classed as a conservatory its roof must comprise of at least 75% glass and its walls must be made up of at least 50% glass. They are fully glazed apart from their bases which are usually made from brick. This is so they let in the maximum amount of light possible into your home creating an inviting environment.
But with modern building additions of Guardian Warm Roofs and other innovations, conservatories have adapted over time to improve their energy efficiency.
The Key Differences
Previously, you could easily notice the differences between orangeries and conservatories but with modern versions of both, there is a lot of crossover and the differences have become subtler. This may make it difficult when deciding between an orangery and a conservatory. Below we have detailed the differences between both.
The Roof
One of the primary key differences is that orangeries’ roofs used to be made with less than 75% glass but nowadays they incorporate a glass lantern in the middle of the roof for extra light. Whereas a conservatory has a glazed pitched roof made of at least 75% glass. A conservatory roof can also include gables and eaves which will equally distribute the weight of the roof. But conservatories also have the option to be fitted with a tiled Guardian WarmRoof which imitates the original structure but improves its energy efficiency.
Wall Structure
Conservatory walls are known to be fully glazed windows with them having to be over 50% glass for it to be considered a conservatory. Orangery walls usually incorporate less than 50% glass and they have primarily brick-built pillars and walls to support the structure and maintain the home’s overall aesthetic. They can also comprise of large high-glazed windows interspersed in the wall’s brickwork or can make up the wall itself to enable more natural light into the home.
Shape and Style
Orangeries normally have a rectangular or square shape. Conservatories have a bit more flexibility in shape as they can be T or P-shaped as well as rectangular or square. Whereas orangeries are created to blend in with a property’s architecture, conservatories are created to be aesthetically different but to complement the home well so it can maintain a uniqueness without taking away anything from the home.
Overall, the similarities between conservatories and orangeries today are minor and it comes down to your own personal design and style preferences.They can be made bespoke to your needs but will always offer great energy efficiency, increased natural light and sturdy security.
Looking to Improve Your Home with an Orangery or Conservatory?
At CS Windows, Doors & Conservatories, we fit a broad range of conservatories and orangeries in Evesham and the surrounding areas completely bespoke to your needs. All our conservatories and orangeries offer excellent energy efficiency and improved security to put your mind at ease.
If you would like to find out more about our range of orangeries or conservatories or have a question for us, call our experienced team today on 07955821567 or fill in the online contact form.
