Home Enhancements: Add Space, Not Stress

Summary

Transform your home into a wellness sanctuary by adding an orangery. This provides extra space and natural light, boosting both physical and mental well-being. Follow our guide to design your perfect orangery.

Bring light and luxury to your life with a uniquely designed orangery by the craftsmen at Elegancia.homes.

** Main Story**

Level Up Your Home and Your Life: The Ultimate Orangery Design Guide

Thinking about moving? Hold on a second! What if you could get that extra space you’re craving without all the boxes and the stress? An orangery could be your answer. Not only will it give your home a serious style boost, but it’ll also do wonders for your well-being. Let’s break down how to design an orangery that truly enhances your life, one step at a time.

Step 1: What’s This Space Really For?

Before you get lost in paint swatches, ask yourself: What’s the dream for this orangery? Is it a chill-out zone, a lively dining room, your new WFH headquarters, or a bright, airy kitchen extension? What it will be affects everything from layout to size to all the features you will include.

Think about it: A kitchen needs serious ventilation and plumbing. A home office? You’ll be needing plenty of outlets and a rock-solid internet connection for all those Zoom calls. Spend time clarifying your vision before you move forward, and it’ll save you headaches later.

Step 2: Navigating the Red Tape

Okay, planning permission isn’t the most exciting topic, but trust me, it’s essential. While some orangeries might fall under “permitted development,” it’s always best to double-check with your local planning authority. Make sure your design ticks all the boxes when it comes to size and placement restrictions; you don’t want any surprises down the line, do you?

Don’t forget building regulations either. This is all about structural integrity, energy efficiency, and safety. A good installer can definitely guide you through this, but being aware of the requirements upfront makes the whole process much smoother. I had a friend who didn’t check properly, and well, let’s just say their build was delayed a good few months. The rain was coming in, the builders were complaining. It wasn’t pretty!

Step 3: Location, Location, Location

Where you put your orangery matters! Think about sunlight and access to your garden. A south-facing spot? Sunshine galore! But you might need special glazing to keep it from turning into a greenhouse in the summer. North-facing? You’ll get a nice, cool, diffused light. East or west? Morning or evening sun is headed your way, respectively. It’s all about picking what works best for you.

And let’s not forget about seamless indoor-outdoor living. Imagine bi-fold or sliding doors that open up to your garden – perfect for parties or just chilling with a coffee on a sunny morning.

Step 4: Sizing it Up Just Right

Bigger isn’t always better. You need to strike a balance between the space you want, what your budget allows, and how it all fits with your current home. A larger orangery gives you more design options, sure, but you don’t want it to look out of place or eat up your entire garden, now do you? Plan your internal layout carefully to get the most out of every square inch. You might want to consider a smaller orangery in the first instance, you can always add extensions to it later.

Step 5: Find Your Style

Your orangery should feel like a natural extension of your home. If you have a traditional house, think brick pillars, a lantern roof, and maybe some ornate details. Going for a modern vibe? Clean lines, big glass panels, and minimalist frames might be more your thing. The goal is a cohesive look, so match brickwork and window styles to your existing home. And think about colors that’ll make the most of the natural light.

Step 6: Let There Be Light (and Flooring!)

We’re talking HUGE windows, glass doors, skylights, the works! Natural light is the key, so maximize it. And don’t skimp on energy-efficient glazing – it’ll keep you comfy and save you money on your energy bills. I once walked into an orangery and it was so bright and cheery inside, even on a cloudy day. That’s the kind of vibe you want!

Now, for flooring. It needs to be durable and stylish. Stone, tile, or engineered wood are all good options that can handle heavy foot traffic. A slightly misplaced comma wouldn’t hurt either in this section.

Step 7: Make it Yours with Interior Design

This is where the fun really begins! Once your orangery’s built, it’s time to personalize it. Light colors will make the space feel airy and open, while darker tones create a cozier vibe. Choose furniture that fits the room’s purpose – comfy sofas for a living room, a big dining table for entertaining. And don’t forget soft touches like rugs, cushions, and throws to add warmth and personality.

Step 8: Bring the Outdoors In

Plants aren’t just pretty; they’re good for you! They clean the air, lower stress, and boost your mood. Choose plants that’ll thrive in your orangery’s environment, like fiddle leaf figs or peace lilies. Or, if you’re feeling ambitious, why not go for a green wall? It’s a total statement piece and a natural air purifier, too.

Step 9: Multifunctional Magic

Think about how you can make your orangery work harder for you. Clever storage solutions are your friend. Ottomans with built-in storage, sofa beds, and nightstands with drawers can all help you maximize space, especially if you’re downsizing. The key is to make sure everything has a purpose, so you can keep the clutter at bay and enjoy a more functional space.

Step 10: Enjoy the Good Life!

An orangery is more than just extra square footage; it’s a lifestyle upgrade. It’s a place to relax, entertain, pursue hobbies, and connect with nature. All that natural light will lift your spirits, and the flexible design means it can adapt to whatever life throws your way. It’s an investment in your well-being and a valuable addition to your home, and it makes a real difference, it makes every day at home just that little bit more special. Don’t you agree?