What’s the difference between a conservatory, an orangery and a sunroom? While some people use the terms interchangeably, they are technically not the same thing. Each one is a type of room designed to let in maximal sunlight – usually built as an extension on the rear side of a home. However, they each have a slightly different design and therefore may look better on different types of property. This post explores the differences between a conservatory, an orangery and a sunroom to help you determine which is right for you.
What is a conservatory?
In the UK, the legal definition of a conservatory is a building that has 50% of its side wall area glazed and at least 75% of its roof glazed with translucent materials (most commonly glass or polycarbonate).
These structures became popular in the Victorian era and were used as extra lounges or as greenhouses. Modern conservatories serve the same purpose – sometimes also used as home offices or home gyms.
They are typically more ornate than orangeries and sunrooms. The predominantly glass roof also allows more sun to pour in from above. Traditionally, most conservatories have a triangular see-through roof that is either a pyramid or prism shape. However, conservatory roofs can take all kinds of other elaborate shapes from domes to arched roofs. The walls are mostly see-through with little to no brick (those that do contain brick usually only have a small amount of brick around the base to support the windows).
What is an orangery?
Orangeries date back to 17th century Europe – the rich and elite would build them as specialist greenhouses for growing oranges in. Over time, orangeries began to be used much like conservatories, and although they are still a luxurious feature, they can now be found attached to many everyday homes.
How does an orangery differ from a conservatory? These structures tend to have a solid roof with a glass roof lantern in the centre. More brick is also used in the walls – although there are usually large windows or sliding glass doors on each side of the building, the four corners are each held up by brick pillars. This heavier use of brick helps to provide added insulation and sturdiness against storm damage.
What is a sunroom?
A sunroom or solarium is a living space built mostly out of glass. They often take the form of a more relaxed conservatory with less ornate features.
Sunrooms can have a glass roof or a solid roof. This is usually flat or sloped. It is not like the fancy triangular roof you find on a conservatory or the smaller roof lantern found in an orangery.
The walls of a sunroom can contain brick or may contain nor brick at all. Some modern examples are made entirely of glass which is held together by a steel frame (which may sometimes be encased in uPVC). This maximizes the amount of sunlight they let in.
Which is right for you?
A conservatory is a good choice if you have an older home and are willing to spend money on a slightly more elaborate structure. They can be used as greenhouses of living spaces.
An orangery is ideal for those that want a sturdier and more insulated structure. Such structures can be more seamlessly matched to the architecture of your home.
A sunroom could be a good option on a modern building for those that want something more minimal in design.