A conservatory is mostly glass in its walls and roof, while an orangery has a largely solid insulated roof with a central glass lantern, supported by masonry pillars or walls. An orangery feels more like part of the house, whereas a conservatory is lighter and more open.
How do they compare?
| Feature | Conservatory | Orangery |
|---|---|---|
| Walls | Mostly glazed, often on a dwarf wall | Brick or insulated pillars with windows |
| Roof | Glass or polycarbonate | Solid insulated roof with a lantern |
| Light | Brighter, more open | Strong from the lantern, softer at the sides |
| Year-round comfort | Depends heavily on glass | Generally easier to heat and cool |
Is there a legal definition?
No. Installers often describe a conservatory as roughly three-quarters glazed on the roof and half glazed on the walls, but this is a guide, not a legal rule. Building control looks at the actual glazing when deciding whether the exemption applies.
Which needs Building Regulations approval?
An orangery generally does, because its solid roof and masonry mean it is treated as an extension. A conservatory is normally exempt if it stays under 30 m² and separated from the house.
Phoenix Windows makes its PVCu frames in-house in Nuneaton and backs installations with an insurance-backed 10-year guarantee. See our conservatories for more detail.
Thinking about a conservatory or roof? We build and refurbish across Nuneaton, Bedworth, Hinckley, Tamworth and Rugby, and every installation comes with an insurance-backed 10-year guarantee. Call 02476 350 330, or request a quote.