You may wonder what the difference is between an Orangery and a Conservatory, the answer lies in the construction of them. The Orangery is the forerunner to the Conservatory and first appeared in Italy which were used for horticultural purposes, but rather than for the growth of plants they were built for the protection of trees in winter, in particular Citrus Trees – hence the name Orangery / orangeries.

The earliest Orangeries did not have glazed roofs, so to ensure the maximum warmth and light from the low winter sun. Over time the openings for shafts of light became more and more sophisticated from doors with removable panels to fantastic triple glazed sashes. The surrounding terrace was integral to the design and purpose providing a plinth for the huge container bound trees which annually made the transition from inside to outside.

Orangeries are typically long and narrow with very tall symmetrically ordered elevations, these remarkable orangeries became the focal feature of the formal gardens of the wealthy land owners throughout Central Europe. With time the fashion to import the defining elements of the classical period clearly became irresistable, hence what we have today on a domestic scale, the Orangery of today will reflect the same sense of symmetry and order in its elevations, and will incorporate plinths, pilosters, entableatures, pediments and columns typical of the classical period.

Orangeries today will almost certainly have a glass roof (although not necessary), typically supported off a cantilevered integral guttering assembly. Curiously it is this latter detail which has become the primary focus in defining Orangeries within the contemporary conservatory market. Orangeries are made unique to your own need and requirements taking into account your existing building and surrounding area, and can be used as a living room, kitchen, dining room or a room for your hot-tub.