What is an orangery?

An orangery is an extension with brick or block piers, large areas of glazing and a solid perimeter roof around a central roof lantern. It sits between a conservatory and a traditional extension: brighter than an extension, warmer and more private than a conservatory.
How much does an orangery cost in Cheltenham?
In Cheltenham, an orangery typically costs £2,450–£3,450 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 16 m² project that is roughly £39,000–£55,000. Building costs in the South West are close to the UK average, so the figures for Cheltenham are close to our national guide. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (11 m²) | £27,000–£38,000 |
| Typical project (16 m²) | £39,000–£55,000 |
| Larger project (22 m²) | £54,000–£76,000 |
| Rate per m² | £2,450–£3,450 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Size and shape of the footprint
- Frame material and colour
- Lantern size
- Amount and type of glazing
Use the guide price tool to see how size and specification change the figure, then ask for a written, itemised quote.
Do you need planning permission for an orangery in Cheltenham?
The approval route for Cheltenham is set by planning law in England. In England a single-storey rear extension is often permitted development: broadly up to 3 metres deep on a semi-detached or terraced house and 4 metres on a detached house, no higher than 4 metres, with eaves no higher than 3 metres within 2 metres of a boundary, and covering no more than half the garden. The larger home extension scheme allows up to 6 or 8 metres if you notify the council first and neighbours have a chance to comment. In conservation areas, National Parks and National Landscapes the larger home extension route, side extensions and cladding are not permitted development. Flats and houses whose rights have been removed need a planning application, and listed buildings need listed building consent.
Building regulations approval comes from the council’s building control service or a registered building control approver. The work is inspected at key stages, such as foundations, drainage and insulation, and a completion certificate is issued at the end.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Insulated perimeter roof with internal pelmet
- Design to suit the style of the house
- Foundations and dwarf walls or piers
- Electrics, heating and plastering
- Building control sign-off where required
- Roof lantern and glazed panels
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 8 to 12 weeks on site. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 6 to 12 weeks.
Building in Cheltenham
The South West mixes stone and render cottages with post-war and newer estates, and local materials matter more here when matching an extension.
Our Cheltenham coverage includes postcode districts GL50 and GL52, and we also work in nearby places such as Tewkesbury, Gloucester and Stroud.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Design and fixed quote
Drawings, structural calculations and an itemised, fixed price for the agreed specification.
- 03
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 04
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about orangeries in Cheltenham
How long does it take?
Typically 8 to 12 weeks on site once approvals are in place.
Do you build orangeries in Cheltenham?
Yes. We build orangeries across Cheltenham, including postcodes GL50 and GL52. Every project starts with a free home visit.
How much does an orangery cost in Cheltenham?
In Cheltenham, an orangery typically costs £2,450–£3,450 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 16 m² project comes to roughly £39,000–£55,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Can it be used all year?
Yes. With an insulated roof, efficient glazing and heating, an orangery is comfortable all year.
Does an orangery need planning permission?
The same rules as a single-storey extension apply. Many are permitted development, depending on depth, height and your house’s location.
