- 16 July 2026|
- News
Orangeries have come on leaps and bounds since they first appeared in the UK during the 16th century, where they were initially used by wealthy homeowners to keep their citrus fruits healthy.
Fast forward to 2026, and they’re perhaps the most desirable of all the home upgrades on the market. Boasting the feel of a traditional extension, orangeries typically have brick dwarf walls and a roof lantern that attracts light from all angles. They can be used however you wish, as a living room with garden views, an extra kitchen, or even to rent out to a lodger. Either way, invest and you can look forward to a spike in your home’s value, and a space that is comfortable whatever the weather.
Because of the luxury they bring to a home, they do usually come in at a higher price than conservatories, for example. Though it’s difficult to put a single figure on an orangery installation because no two are the same. The factors that impact the price include the size of the project, the materials used, structural work, additional extras, etc.
The good news is that because our orangeries are entirely bespoke, you have a fair amount of control over the final price. In this guide, we walk you through everything that affects the cost of an orangery extension, so you can plan your project with confidence.
But in short, the best way to get an accurate price is to request a free, no obligation quote.
What impacts the cost of an orangery?
From the size of your orangery to the type of glazing you choose, several factors can have a significant impact on the overall cost of your installation.
Size and floor area
The single biggest factor affecting your orangery cost is simply how big it is. A larger floor area naturally means more materials, more labour and more structural work, all of which push the final price upward.
To keep costs down, consider a compact, well-proportioned design. Small orangeries can still feel incredibly generous when designed well, particularly with the right glazing and roof lantern to draw in light.
Frame materials
The material used for your orangery frames plays a major role in both the upfront cost and the long-term performance of your build.
We recommend uPVC or aluminium for both conservatory and orangery frames. uPVC is a synthetic material that provides affordability and performance, and aluminium, an incredibly strong metal, ensures the potential of an orangery is maximised through slim frames, enabling more natural light intake.
Older timber frames are known to change shape, fall victim to insect damage, and be negatively affected by weather, so always look out for uPVC or aluminium.
Roof design
Your roof is one of the most defining features of a new orangery, and the type you choose will affect both the look and the overall cost.
- A flat roof with a central glazed lantern is the classic orangery format
- Roof lanterns or lantern roofs introduce drama and light in equal measure
- Fully glazed roofs sit at the higher end of the price scale but deliver extraordinary natural light
At Oakley Green Conservatories, we also offer a full glass envelope Edwardian roof, with an added internal pelmet which creates a faux orangery effect from the inside. This is typically more affordable than a full traditional orangery, with an image below.
Structural works and foundations
Proper foundations are essential for any orangery extension. If your garden has poor ground conditions, high water tables or uneven terrain, additional groundwork may be needed, adding to your labour costs and overall cost.
Planning permission and building regulations can also affect your timeline and budget. Many orangeries fall under permitted development rights and don’t require formal planning consent, but it’s always worth checking, especially if you live in a listed building or a conservation area.
Doors and glazing
Bifold doors are a popular addition to orangeries, they give you a real connection with your garden that homeowners love. They look stunning, but do add to the final price.
The windows you choose will also impact the cost, depending on how much each style/material is to supply and install. Popular options including both double and triple glazing, as well as casement, tilt and turn and flush casement styles.
Extras: pelmets, underfloor heating and more
The beauty of a bespoke orangery is in the details. Our orangeries feature an internal pelmet, which can house integrated spotlights and speakers, a lovely finishing touch. Underfloor heating, roof vents and custom colour finishes are all options worth considering too.
Are orangeries worth it?
Absolutely, and here’s why:
Increased property value
A quality orangery extension almost always adds meaningful value to your home. Permanent, brick-built structures are viewed favourably by buyers and valuers alike, making your investment work harder over time.
A genuinely versatile space
An orangery can be whatever you need it to be:
- A light-filled kitchen extension
- An elegant dining room
- A relaxed family lounge
- A quiet home office
- An entertaining space for guests
- An additional source of income by renting the space out
Thermal performance all year round
Modern orangeries provide comfort everyday of the year.
Insulated brick pillars, high-performance glazing and a solid roof structure all contribute to a space that stays warm in winter and cool in summer.
Beautiful natural light
Our orangeries are designed to flood your home with natural daylight, enabling you to benefit from the mental and physical benefits of regular sunlight exposure. Slim aluminium frames, large glazed panels and a central roof lantern draw in far more light than a traditional extension, without sacrificing warmth or privacy.
A seamless connection to your garden
With bifold doors and full-width glazing, an orangery creates a fluid relationship between your home and outdoor space, especially appealing during the warmer months across Berkshire and the South East.
Conservatory versus orangery
Not sure which is right for you? Here’s a clear comparison.
| Feature | Conservatory | Orangery |
| Structure | Lightweight, glazed framework | Solid brick pillars, insulated roof |
| Natural light | Very high | High, with more privacy |
| Thermal performance | Modern options are good | Excellent year-round, best-in class |
| Feel | Garden room | Full room extension |
| Planning | Usually permitted development | Usually permitted development |
| Cost | Generally lower | Generally higher |
| Kerb appeal | Traditional/classic | Modern, architectural |
Choose a conservatory if…
- You want maximum natural light and an open, airy feel
- You’re working with a tighter budget
- You’d like a space that feels distinct from the main house
- You prefer a quicker, more straightforward installation
Choose an orangery if…
- You want a space that feels like a true part of your existing house
- Year-round thermal comfort is a priority
- You’re looking to add genuine, long-term value to your property
- You’d like a more architectural, design-led structure
Orangery design and installation from Oakley Green Conservatories
Every orangery we design and install is completely bespoke, built around your home, your lifestyle and your budget. Whether you’re drawn to a sleek, contemporary finish or something with a more traditional character, we’ll create a design that feels like a natural part of your property.
Our orangeries are engineered to exact postcode specifications and weather tested to hurricane speed winds, so you can be confident your new space is built to perform for the long term.
When it comes to the finer details, the choice is yours:
- Frame colour: White, satin black, anthracite grey or any RAL colour
- Cornice style: 1, 2 or 3 tier, or curved
- Roof lantern specification and glazing type
- Door style, including bifold doors across wide spans
- Internal pelmet for integrated spotlights and audio
Our slim bar profiles and super strong glazing bars are designed to maximise your view and draw in as much natural light as possible, with less framework getting in the way of the sky above.
We serve homeowners across Berkshire, Oxfordshire, Hampshire and Wiltshire, regularly installing orangeries in Reading, Windsor, Wokingham, Ascot, Marlow, Henley and beyond.
Why trust Oakley Green Conservatories?
We’re a family run business based in Thatcham, Berkshire, and we’ve been designing and installing bespoke orangeries, conservatories and home extensions across the South of England for years. We’re proud of our 4.8-star average rating on Google, a reflection of the personal service and craftsmanship we bring to every project.
From your first enquiry through to final sign-off, we manage the entire process in-house. A dedicated surveyor, a skilled installation team and a project manager work together to deliver your orangery to the very highest standard, what we call our concept to completion approach.
All our products come with a 10-year manufacturer’s guarantee, and everything we install is made in Britain.
Browse our case studies to see real orangery installations across Berkshire and the surrounding regions, or visit our showroom in Thatcham to see our products for yourself.
Ready to get started? Call us on 01635 877 959 or get in touch online to arrange your free consultation. We’ll discuss your ideas, talk you through your options and provide a detailed, no-obligation quote, all tailored to your home and your budget.
