Summary
Building an orangery can enhance your home by adding valuable living space, boosting its market appeal, and creating a beautiful transition between your indoor and outdoor areas. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to designing, planning, and constructing your dream orangery, from laying the foundations to adding the finishing touches.
Bring light and luxury to your life with a uniquely designed orangery by the craftsmen at Elegancia.homes.
Main Story
Thinking about adding an orangery to your home? It’s a fantastic way to boost your living space, flood your rooms with light, and seriously up the curb appeal. It’s an investment, sure, but one that can really pay off. So, where do you even start? Let’s break it down, step-by-step.
Step 1: Dream It, Plan It
First, really envision what you want. What’s the purpose of this new space? Will it be a bright, sunny breakfast nook? A sophisticated dining area? Or maybe a tranquil home office bathed in natural light? Think about the style. You wouldn’t want a super modern glass structure tacked onto a Victorian house, would you? Consider how it’ll mesh with your home’s existing architecture.
Research designs, scroll through Pinterest, and gather inspiration. Decide on your materials – brick, stone, wood, a combination? Traditionally, a south-facing orientation is ideal for maximizing sunlight. You ideally, want to aim for less than 50% of the wall area to be glass, and less than 75% of the roof to be glass or polycarbonate. And key features? A solid brick or stone base, those glorious glazed windows, that elegant lantern roof, and the flat perimeter roof. It’s that blend that really defines the orangery look.
Step 2: Permission Please (Maybe)
Now, about the dreaded planning permission. Good news is that many orangeries actually fall under permitted development, which means you might not need to jump through all those hoops. However, and it’s a big however, always check with your local planning authority. Especially if you live in a conservation area or a listed building. Those properties often have very specific rules. Trust me, a little early consultation can save you a ton of headaches down the road. One of my old neighbours didn’t bother and ended up having to make costly alterations after the fact!
Step 3: Crunching the Numbers and Finding Your A-Team
Budget time! Be realistic. Include design fees, materials, labor, and a healthy buffer for the unexpected. Get quotes from a few reputable contractors who specialize in orangeries. Don’t just go for the cheapest option, though! Compare their experience, expertise, and proposed timelines. A skilled contractor isn’t just a builder; they’re your guide through the entire process. They can really make or break the project, so choose wisely.
Step 4: Digging In: Groundwork and Foundations
Once your plans are approved and you’ve got your contractor locked in, it’s time to get your hands dirty. Well, they get their hands dirty. This stage involves excavating the site, laying the foundations, and ensuring proper drainage. The depth of the footings will depend on the ground conditions, typically ranging from 600mm to 1000mm. Sometimes, especially with new builds, you might even need specialized piling. It sounds intense, and it can be, but it’s crucial for a solid, long-lasting structure.
Step 5: Building the Dream
This is where things really start to take shape. The construction phase involves building the dwarf walls, installing the windows and doors, and constructing the roof structure, including that gorgeous central roof lantern. Don’t skimp on materials or craftsmanship here. This is what will determine the durability and the overall aesthetic of your orangery. You want brick pillars, large glazed windows, and that classic cornice. Some traditional orangeries even have wooden shutters for heat retention, which adds both charm and functionality.
Step 6: Making it Home: Interior Finishing
With the structure complete, turn your attention to the interior. This is where you can really put your stamp on the space! Think about flooring, lighting, heating, and any other features you want. Underfloor heating is a game-changer for comfort, especially during those chilly months. Try to seamlessly blend the interior with your home’s style. Matching flooring, for example, can create a smooth transition between the orangery and the main house.
Step 7: The Final Flourish: Landscaping and Decoration
Finally, it’s time for the finishing touches. Landscaping the surrounding area is key. You want a harmonious flow between your indoor and outdoor spaces. And inside, furnish and decorate to reflect the intended use of the space. Whether it’s a cozy dining area, a relaxing reading nook, or a productive home office, make it your own.
Building an orangery is a big project, no doubt. But with careful planning, quality construction, and thoughtful design, you’ll end up with a beautiful, functional space that you’ll enjoy for years. Remember, regulations and best practices can change, so always consult with relevant professionals throughout your project. As of today, it’s all up-to-date, but don’t take my word for it – always double-check!
Be the first to comment