Conservatory vs orangery vs extension – what’s the difference?
23 July 2022 |Advice & Guidance
When households in Kent need to increase space, light, and property value, conservatories, orangeries, and extensions have become the preferred option to make this happen. But how do you know which one is best for you? And more importantly, which one falls comfortably within your budget?… Let’s explore these important factors together.
What is the difference between a conservatory and orangery and an extension?
A brief overview of the main differences between these popular glazed extensions is that (typically) conservatories are fully glazed structures added on to the house, orangeries feature solid brick sections and insulated columns, whereas home extensions are mainly made of bricks.
What is a conservatory?
Traditionally made almost entirely out of glass, structures that are separated from the rest of the house by external windows and doors are classed as a conservatory.
Learn more about our range of conservatory styles
What is an orangery?
Originally used by wealthy Europeans to protect their prized citrus trees, orangeries are rectangular in shape and provide more of a solid feel than a conservatory thanks to their solid sections, sturdy brick pillars, and eye-catching lantern roof centrepiece.
What is a single storey extension?
Often chosen as an alternative to moving house, a single storey extension is a new room or building added to an existing property. Typically featuring the most brickwork of all three options, popular types of extension in Maidstone and Kent include side return extensions and wraparound rear extensions.
Compare conservatory vs orangery vs extension
| / | Conservatory | Orangery | Extension |
| Mainly made of glass | ✔️ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Typically has a lantern roof & brick pillars | ❌ | ✔️ | ❌ |
| A new room added to an existing building | ❌ | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Needs planning permission* | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| uPVC frames | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Aluminium frames | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Energy efficient | A rated glazing | A rated glazing + fully insulated columns | A rated glazing + fully insulated design |
| Different roof options | Glass, tiles, roof lantern, hybrid & roof lights | Glass, tiles, roof lantern, hybrid & roof lights | Glass, tiles, hybrid & roof lights |
| Adds value | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
*This depends on the property and the size of the conservatory, orangery, or extension.
Compare the Average Value Added
| Type of improvement | Average value added |
| Conservatory | 5% |
| Orangery | 7% |
| Single storey extension | 8% |
High quality conservatories, orangeries and extensions in Maidstone and Kent
Now that the differences are clear in your mind, it’s time to decide which glazed extension option is best for you and your family. Don’t forget you can also access up to 40% off windows, doors and conservatories PLUS pay only £99 deposit and pay nothing until 2023.
Offering a range of bespoke designs and unique finishes, plan a visit to your nearest FineLine showroom, get a price, or get in touch to discuss your options further and edge one step closer to your dream conservatory, orangery, or extension space.
