How Much Value Does A Conservatory Or Orangery Add To A UK Home?

When it comes to home improvements in the UK, few additions spark as much debate and delight as the glazed extension. We are a nation obsessed with natural light (likely because we see so little of it!) and the promise of a garden room is often the dream. But beyond the aesthetic appeal, there is a cold, hard financial question: how much value does a conservatory or orangery actually add to your home?

Whether you are looking for a sun-drenched breakfast nook or a solid investment for a future sale, understanding the nuances of these structures is key.

Why Should You Add A Conservatory Or Orangery To Your House?

The “Why” usually starts with space. As our lives evolve (perhaps the family is growing) the four walls of your existing home can start to feel a little restrictive. An extension offers a way to move up without moving out.

Beyond the extra square footage, these glazed structures are all about lifestyle. They act as a bridge between the comfort of your sofa and the beauty of your garden. In a climate where a garden party can be ruined by a light drizzle in seconds, having a protected space that still feels outdoors is a massive win. Furthermore, with modern glazing technology, these rooms are no longer the too hot in summer, too cold in winter boxes they used to be. They are genuine, year-round living spaces.

What Is The Difference Between A Conservatory And An Orangery?

It’s a question that stumps many, but the distinction is actually quite simple once you know what to look for. Think of it as a spectrum: a conservatory is at the glass end, while an orangery sits closer to a traditional extension.

• The Conservatory: Traditionally, a conservatory has a glazed roof and walls that are at least 50% glass. They often feature a bolted-on aesthetic (though modern designs are much more integrated) and provide maximum sunlight.
• The Orangery: Historically used by the aristocracy to grow citrus trees (hence the name), the modern orangery uses more brickwork. It typically features solid pillars, a flat roof perimeter, and a central glass lantern roof. It feels more like a permanent part of the house’s original architecture.

What Benefits Does A Conservatory Add To Your Home?

The primary benefit of a conservatory is instant light. Because they are predominantly glass, they flood the adjacent rooms with sunshine, making even the gloomiest British afternoon feel a bit brighter.

They are also generally more cost-effective and faster to install than a full-brick extension. Because many conservatories fall under Permitted Development, you can often avoid the headache of a full planning permission application (though you should always check with experts first). They are the perfect choice if you want a dedicated playroom, a bright dining area, or a sanctuary for your houseplant collection.

What Benefits Does An Orangery Add To Your Home?

If you are looking for seamless integration and wow factor, an orangery is the way to go. Because they use more brick and stone, they offer much better thermal insulation than a standard conservatory. This makes them ideal for more substantial uses, like a stunning open-plan kitchen extension or a cosy secondary lounge.

An orangery provides a level of privacy that a glass-walled conservatory can’t match, thanks to its solid pillars. From the outside, an orangery often looks like it was built with the house, enhancing the overall kerb appeal significantly.

Do Conservatories And Orangeries Add Value To Homes?

Now for the million-pound question. On average, property experts in 2026 suggest that a high-quality conservatory can add between 5% and 7% to your home’s value. An orangery, due to its more permanent feel and superior insulation, can often push that figure up to 10% or even 15%.

However, the value isn’t just a flat percentage. It depends on several factors:

1. Quality of Build: A cheap uPVC kit that feels flimsy will not add value; it might even detract from it. Buyers want to see energy-efficient glazing and solid foundations.
2. Proportionality: If you build a massive conservatory that eats up your entire garden, you might actually lower the house’s value. Balance is everything.
3. Usability: A room that can be used comfortably in mid-January or December is worth significantly more than one that becomes a walk-in freezer the moment the sun goes down.

Why Choose Leekes For Your New Conservatory/Orangery Installation?

Adding an extension is a significant investment, and you need a partner who knows the British landscape. At Leekes, we have been helping homeowners transform their spaces for decades with a 360-degree service that takes the stress out of the build.

We don’t just sell you a glass box. We offer:

• Bespoke Design: Whether you want a classic Victorian conservatory or a contemporary lantern-roof orangery, we tailor the design to match your home’s character.
• Energy Efficiency: We use market-leading glazing and roofing systems to ensure your new room is a comfortable temperature 365 days a year.
• Peace of Mind: From navigating building regulations to the final lick of plaster, our expert installers handle the lot.

Ready to see how much space (and value) you could add to your home? Get in touch with our friendly team to find out more today, or get started with an instant online quote now.

Categories: Conservatories, Leekes-Blog, Orangeries

Tags: conservatories, conservatory installers, house extensions, how much value does a conservatory add to a home, orangeries, orangery installation