orangery vs kitchen extension – what you need to know

If you’ve ever taken the steps to plan a kitchen renovation, it can be really frustrating to realise that the kitchen you have in mind won’t work within the limits of your existing space. The size and shape of the room, along with window placement, can all restrict the design process and prevent you from achieving the look and layout you’re hoping for. And let’s face it, this is a huge amount of time, energy and expense for something that will always feel like a compromise.

Many of our clients will therefore opt for a custom built flat roof orangery extension that can provide the additional space needed for an open-plan kitchen, along with generous natural light and the bright, airy atmosphere that only a well-designed orangery can offer. Over the years we have worked with Westbury Garden Rooms on many of these projects, and we thought it would be useful to share a blog post with direct commentary from the team at Westbury on how to achieve the very best

What’s the difference between a kitchen extension and an Orangery

If you’re unfamiliar with the term orangery, it’s easy to assume it’s the same as a standard flat-roof kitchen extension. In reality, there are several architectural details that set orangeries apart.

Orangery

Originally a symbol of wealth and prestige, orangeries were designed to protect exotic fruits during the colder months. Over time, they have evolved into comfortable, practical living spaces that can be enjoyed all year round.

An orangery is typically a semi-glazed structure, characterised by a flat roof, tall glazing and the inclusion of one or more roof lanterns. Roof lanterns differ significantly from standard skylights; they are pitched, glazed structures that introduce height, architectural interest and a sense of grandeur.

The glazing used in orangery design allows light to flood into the home, creating a light-filled and uplifting atmosphere. As orangeries are semi-glazed, homeowners can tailor the balance of solid walls and glass. More glazing, of course, invites in greater light, while a combination of solid and glazed walls can offer increased privacy without compromising on character.

Kitchen extension

Kitchen extensions are more loosely defined. They may feature flat or pitched roofs and can include skylights, roof lanterns or a fully solid roof. Typically, they incorporate more solid wall space and far less glazing than an orangery. An example of a kitchen extension is the St Albans project above – it has glazed doors to the rear and two roof lanterns, whereas the Ascot project below is an orangery.

How an orangery can TRANSFORM your kitchen renovation…

Natural light

The generous glazing used in an orangery provides an even distribution of natural light throughout the kitchen, enhanced further by the roof lantern overhead and simply makes the space feel calmer, lighter and more inviting.

High-performance materials

Westbury’s timber orangeries are crafted using an engineered combination of Redwood internally and Accoya® timber externally. Accoya® is a modified timber known for its exceptional durability and sustainable sourcing. Highly resistant to rot, decay and insect damage, it is designed to stand the test of time. Accoya®’s natural dimensional stability also means its resist to swelling, shrinking and warping, ensuring long-term performance.

Distinctive design

Orangeries are instantly recognisable. Tall glazing, generous door openings and carefully considered detailing all play their part, alongside a deep understanding of proportion and scale. Together, these elements create a refined architectural addition that enhances both your kitchen and your home as a whole.

Does a kitchen extension require planning permission?

Whether planning permission is required for a kitchen extension depends on several factors. Under permitted development rights, formal planning permission may not be needed if the extension meets certain criteria:

• The extension must not extend more than 4m from the rear wall of a detached house, or 3m for a semi-detached or terraced house.
• The height must not exceed 4m from ground level, including the roof lantern (but excluding the parapet).
• Extensions and outbuildings must not cover more than 50% of the property’s curtilage.

Even if these conditions are met, professional advice is always recommended. Additional restrictions apply to listed buildings, conservation areas, Green Belts and National Landscapes (formerly Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty).

If planning permission is required, Westbury’s team brings over 35 years of experience and can manage the entire process, including:

• Planning applications
• Building regulations compliance
• SAP assessments
• Structural calculations
• Liaising with consultants on your behalf

How much does a kitchen extension cost?

As a general guide, Westbury orangeries start from approximately £2,000–£3,000 per square metre. The kitchen is the heart of the home, a space for gathering, cooking and creating memories; investing in an orangery extension to transform this space can make a huge difference.

It’s essential to think carefully about how the space will be used, how it supports daily life and whether a timber extension aligns with your wider renovation goals.

Getting the most out of your HM kitchen

Westbury garden rooms and orangeries sit naturally alongside Humphrey Munson’s considered kitchen design approach. We work with clients in the early stages of design to ensure that the planned orangery or extension will deliver all that is required. To understand further how HM and Westbury work together, get in touch below…

Contact Westbury

Contact Humphrey Munson

Images – Paul Craig