Case Studies
We designed and built this stylish, traditional orangery on a character property near Farnham, Surrey.
The brief
The existing conservatory was spread across much of the rear elevation, encompassing both sets of French doors that lead into the dining room and the lounge.
The client wanted to change the use of the space by concentrating on extending the dining area linking to the kitchen.
They also wanted to free up some space on the patio, and to be able step onto the patio directly, through the French doors, from the lounge.
The decision to replace the conservatory with an orangery, was not a difficult choice.
The conservatory, with its fully glazed roof, is essentially a covered outdoor space, with incumbent difficulties in maintaining an even temperature all year round.
At a time when utility costs have rocketed, the cost of heating is suddenly a serious consideration.
The design
The orangery, with its fully insulated roof and walls integrates perfectly with the property, basically becoming just another room in terms of comfort.
And of course, there is the added benefit that it looks absolutely stunning!
The build
After achieving Planning Consent and Building Regulations approval started work.
We carefully removed and disposed of the existing conservatory.
There was some ‘making good’ to do to the external house wall where the conservatory had been attached.
To make room for the new orangery we also had to cut back the oak pergola over the barbeque area.
In building the orangery walls we replicated the original stonework with brick castellation on the house.
Internally the new, insulated walls are constructed of plastered blockwork.
The windows and doors and the roof lantern are all crafted from Sapele, a West African hardwood, selected for its durability and resistance to rot.
The joinery is factory sprayed with several coats of Microporous paint, which allows the timber to expand and contract with the rise and fall of outdoor temperature, without forming wrinkles or cracks in the paintwork.
Getting the details right
Getting the glazing right is essential to the maintenance of comfort in the orangery. Gone are the days of ‘freezing in winter – boiling in summer’ which were always the biggest criticism of old conservatories.
Glazing manufacturers have developed special ‘solar resistant glass’ which dramatically reduces the heat gain from the sun through the glazed roof lantern.
Similarly, we use double glazing units in the windows and doors which have a ‘Low E’ coating’ and are filled with argon gas to enable maximum heat retention when it is required in the cooler months.
Electrically operated roof vents and opening windows and a reliable form of heating (underfloor or radiators) ensure the year-round comfort you would expect from any extension.
The client also wanted to keep their original wood burner, which neatly fitted into the corner, in its original location!
Completing the project
The orangery was completed with ceramic floor tiles, downlights were fitted into the roof section, plus several other electrical fittings.
Externally a new patio was laid to complete an astounding transformation, with a delighted client.
You can see from the ‘before and after’ photos just what a difference the orangery makes and how it compliments an already gorgeous property with fabulous gardens.
Our guarantee
All works, even those carried out by our contractors, are covered by our 10 year warranty. And, 12 months after the installation has been completed, we return to check everything is in good working order and the orangery has settled in over the past year.