Conservatory vs Orangery vs Extension: Which Is Right for Your Home?

Deciding how to add space and value to your home can feel overwhelming. At Abbey Conservatories, we guide homeowners through the differences between a conservatory, an orangery, and a home extension so you can choose the option that fits your lifestyle, budget, and planning needs.

Conservatories

A conservatory is a light-filled structure with large areas of glass in the roof and walls. It is ideal if you want a bright living area that brings the garden closer to your home. Modern conservatories use advanced glazing to reduce heat loss and limit glare, so they are comfortable for more of the year than older designs. They work particularly well as dining rooms, play areas or simple garden rooms where natural light is the priority.

Orangeries

An orangery blends brickwork and glazing to create a room that feels more like a traditional house extension while still offering plenty of daylight. Typical orangeries have a solid brick or masonry base with windows above and a roof that often features panels of glazing or a central roof lantern. This gives a feeling of permanence and better thermal performance. If you want a stylish reception room, study or family room that reads as part of your home rather than an add-on, an orangery is worth considering.

Home Extensions

A full home extension involves altering or adding to the existing building fabric to create additional internal space that matches the rest of the property. Extensions give the greatest flexibility for layout and finish. They can be single-storey or multiple-storey and can be designed to accommodate kitchens, living areas or additional bedrooms. Extensions are typically more substantial projects than conservatories or orangeries and may require planning approval depending on size and location.

Conservatory vs Orangery vs Extension: Key Differences

Each option offers a different balance of light, structure, cost and permanence. Understanding how conservatories, orangeries and extensions compare will help you choose the solution that fits your home, lifestyle and budget. This overview highlights the practical differences so you can plan with confidence.

Feature	Conservatory	Orangery	Extension
Structure	Mostly glazed walls and roof for maximum light.	Brick base with glazing and a lantern-style roof.	Fully built structure matching the main property.
Feel & Appearance	Bright garden-room atmosphere.	Blends indoor comfort with natural light.	Feels like a seamless part of the home.
Thermal Performance	Modern glazing improves year-round comfort.	Better insulation due to solid elements.	Equivalent to the main house construction.
Cost Range	Typically the most affordable option.	Mid-range investment.	Higher cost due to structural build work.
Planning Considerations	Often permitted development.	May fall under permitted development.	More likely to require planning approval.

Which Is Right for Your Home?

Which option is right will depend on a few practical factors. If natural light and ease of installation are top priorities, a conservatory can deliver excellent results at a modest cost and within a shorter timescale. If you want a more integrated look and enhanced thermal performance, an orangery provides a balance of light and solidity. If you aim to substantially increase usable floor area and match the existing architecture, an extension is the most suitable route.

Budget and planning are important considerations. Conservatories tend to be the most affordable option, orangeries are mid-range, and extensions usually require a larger investment. For planning, smaller conservatories and some orangeries can be built under permitted development rules, but site-specific rules vary. A full extension is more likely to need formal planning consent and building control approval. We always recommend checking with your local authority early in the process.

Upgrade Your Home with Abbey Conservatories

At Abbey Conservatories, we provide advice to homeowners who would like to discuss their needs and inspect their site. We will explain the likely timescale, the build process and the options for glazing, roofing and finishes so you can compare the choices with confidence. 

If you are unsure which option to choose, get in touch and a member of our team will talk you through the pros and cons for your home. For a detailed cost estimate and bespoke design proposals, request your free, online quote. Our approach is straightforward and practical, focusing on what will work best for your family and property.