Orangeries

The origin of a true orangery in Europe can be traced back to the Padua orangery in Italy in 1545. The first known English orangery was built in Surrey in around 1580 for Sir Francis Carew and yes, they were originally built to protect and provide winter heating for growing oranges.

Orangeries differ from conservatories because they tend to have less overall glass surface area, are normally taller at frame height than conservatories and are often more decorative and ornate. A lantern roof sits on a flat surround or platform to form the roof area.

We also make lanterns on their own to fit onto flat roofs or above room extensions.

There is a fine line as to what, in planning terms, is the difference between a conservatory and an orangery. We tend to find that conservatories are usually exempt from building control inspection but orangeries are not, as the latter is often perceived as an extension room.