When planning extra space, many homeowners ask whether an orangery is cheaper than a traditional extension. In the UK, the answer depends on design, specification and how you plan to use the new room, but there are helpful rules of thumb.​

Orangery vs Extension: Key Differences

A single‑storey extension is usually built with full brick or block walls, a solid tiled or slate roof and conventional windows and doors. It feels like an extra room or rooms, integrated with the rest of the house.

A bespoke orangery extension combines solid walls with large glazed sections and a part‑solid roof with a central roof lantern. This gives you more natural light and a conservatory‑style outlook, but with better insulation and structure than many older conservatories.​

Typical Cost Relationships

Industry guides and comparison articles suggest that, per square metre, orangeries often sit between standard conservatories and full extensions. In other words, an orangery can be:​

• More of an investment than a basic conservatory
• Often more cost‑effective than a fully specified brick extension of similar size

However, a high‑end luxury orangery with premium finishes can match or exceed the cost of a simple extension, so design choices matter.​

Where Orangeries Offer Better Value

Orangeries can offer strong value when you want:

• A bright, open‑plan kitchen‑dining space
• A garden‑facing family room with lots of glass
• A “showpiece” room that adds a sense of luxury

Because an orangery provides both daylight and architectural detail, many UK homeowners feel they get more “wow factor per pound” compared with a very plain extension.​

Where Extensions Make More Sense

A traditional extension may be better if you:

• Need multiple separate rooms rather than one open space
• Require lots of solid wall space for storage or fitted furniture
• Prefer smaller windows and a more enclosed feel​

In these situations, the flexibility of a full extension may justify the extra investment, especially if it significantly changes your floorplan.

Thinking Beyond “Cheaper”

The real question is usually not just “Is an orangery cheaper than an extension?” but “Which option gives the best return for how we want to live?”. When you factor in natural light, connection to the garden and aesthetic impact, many homeowners decide an orangery gives better everyday enjoyment and strong resale appeal.​

Get Advice For Your Specific Home

Because every property and design is different, it is worth exploring both options with a specialist. Farrow Jones can help you compare a bespoke orangery with a more traditional extension for your UK home, considering budget, planning and lifestyle. Visit farrowjones.com to discuss which approach will deliver the best blend of cost, comfort and character.