Can you use an orangery all year round?
If you’re considering adding extra living space to your home, you might be asking this very question. Modern orangeries are designed to be comfortable, stylish, and energy efficient throughout every season, making them one of the most popular home improvement choices for the unpredictable UK climate!
Orangery
Unlike older conservatories that could become too hot in summer or too cold in winter, today’s orangeries are built using advanced glazing, insulated roofing systems and high-performance materials. This means you can enjoy a bright and practical living space whatever the weather.
Thanks to modern construction methods and energy-efficient glazing, orangeries also stay warm in winter. A well-designed one can remain warm and comfortable during colder months, whilst still feeling airy and light-filled throughout summer.
What is an orangery?
An orangery is a home extension that combines large glazed windows with solid brick pillars and a roof lantern. Historically, orangeries were used by wealthy homeowners to grow citrus trees during winter, but modern designs have evolved into luxurious and versatile living spaces.
Why not delve deeper into the history of orangeries in this House & Garden article?
An orangery sits somewhere between a conservatory and a traditional extension. While conservatories are mainly constructed from glass, orangeries feature more solid structural elements, giving them a more substantial feel and improved insulation.
Today, homeowners use orangeries for a wide range of purposes, including:
Open-plan kitchen extensions
Dining rooms
Family lounges
Home offices
Entertaining spaces
Playrooms
At Bedfordshire Windows, bespoke orangeries are designed to complement both modern and traditional homes, creating bright and functional spaces homeowners can enjoy every day.
Are orangeries warm in winter?
One of the biggest advantages of a modern orangery is its ability to retain heat effectively. When professionally designed and installed, they can feel just as warm and comfortable as any other room in your home. There are several reasons why modern orangeries perform well during colder weather:
Insulated brickwork: Unlike traditional conservatories, orangeries include more solid brick pillars and walls. This additional structure helps improve insulation and reduce heat loss.
Energy efficient glazing: Modern glazing technology is designed to trap heat indoors, whilst minimising cold transfer from outside. Double and triple glazed units also help reduce condensation and improve comfort.
Thermally efficient roof systems: Roof lanterns and insulated roofing systems are designed to balance natural light with thermal efficiency. Modern roof glazing can reflect excessive solar heat in summer, while retaining warmth during winter.
Quality doors and windows: Modern bifold doors, French doors and windows are manufactured with advanced seals, and thermal breaks to help prevent draughts and maintain indoor temperatures.
Combined together, these features create a room that feels comfortable all year round, without excessive heating costs.
The real benefits of an orangery
An orangery offers far more than additional space. It can completely transform how you use your home, and improve both looks and functionality.
Increased natural light: Roof lanterns and large glazed panels allow natural daylight to flood into the room. This creates a bright, welcoming environment and can even help adjoining rooms feel larger and lighter. Natural light is known to improve wellbeing and can make your home feel more spacious and inviting.
Improved property value: A professionally designed orangery can increase the appeal and value of your property. Buyers are often attracted to homes with modern, energy-efficient living spaces that offer versatility and style. An orangery can enhance both kerb appeal and practicality, making it a worthwhile long-term investment.
Energy efficiency: Modern homeowners are increasingly focused on energy efficiency, and orangeries are now designed with thermal performance in mind. High-quality glazing, insulated roofing systems and energy-efficient frames can help reduce heat loss and lower energy bills over time.
Orangery styles available
One of the reasons orangeries are so popular is the wide range of styles available. Whether your home is traditional or more modern, there is an orangery design to suit your property.
Traditional orangeries: Traditional orangeries feature classic brickwork, decorative detailing and elegant roof lanterns. They work beautifully with period properties and homeowners looking for timeless design. Features often include decorative cornices, French doors, heritage-style windows and symmetrical designs.
Contemporary orangeries: Modern orangeries focus on sleek lines, minimalist styling and large glazed areas. Aluminium frames and bifold doors are particularly popular for creating open-plan spaces with a modern finish. Contemporary designs often include slimline roof lanterns, anthracite grey frames, large bifold doors and minimalist glazing.
Lighting and lantern roofs
Roof lanterns are one of the defining features of an orangery. Positioned centrally within the roof, they allow light to pour into the room from above, creating an impressive architectural focal point.
Roof lanterns help create:
Brighter living spaces
A feeling of height and openness
Better connection to outdoor spaces
Elegant visual appeal
Modern lantern roofs are available in a variety of styles, from traditional decorative designs to contemporary slimline aluminium systems.
Lighting also plays a key role in making an orangery functional throughout the year. Many homeowners combine natural light with carefully planned interior lighting such as:
LED spotlights
Pendant lighting
Wall lights
Mood lighting
Under-cabinet lighting for kitchens
This combination ensures your orangery feels warm and welcoming from day to night.
Why choose an orangery?
If you’re looking for a stylish, practical, and energy efficient home extension, an orangery offers the perfect solution. It provides the light-filled feel of a conservatory with the comfort and insulation of a traditional extension.
At Bedfordshire Windows, bespoke orangeries are designed to enhance your home, improve everyday living and provide year-round comfort for years to come.
Get in touch with our team today and get a free no obligation quotation.