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 Cheshunt?
In Cheshunt, an orangery typically costs £2,550–£3,600 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 16 m² project that is roughly £41,000–£57,500. Building costs in the East of England run about 6% above the UK average, and the figures for Cheshunt are adjusted to reflect that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (11 m²) | £28,000–£39,500 |
| Typical project (16 m²) | £41,000–£57,500 |
| Larger project (22 m²) | £56,000–£79,000 |
| Rate per m² | £2,550–£3,600 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Lantern size
- Heating and flooring
- Size and shape of the footprint
- Frame material and colour
For a figure based on your own measurements, try the guide price tool, then book a free home visit for a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for an orangery in Cheshunt?
Approvals for an orangery in Cheshunt follow the rules for 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.
Where work involves a shared wall, building on the boundary, or digging foundations within 3 metres of a neighbour’s building and deeper than its foundations (or within 6 metres for deeper work), the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies and notices must be served before work starts.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
The work we manage on an orangery:
- Design to suit the style of the house
- French, sliding or bifold doors
- Foundations and dwarf walls or piers
- Building control sign-off where required
- Insulated perimeter roof with internal pelmet
- Flooring and decoration options
How long does it take?
Expect 8 to 12 weeks on site. Design and approvals come first and typically take 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the approval route.
Building in Cheshunt
Many towns in the East of England have estates built since the 1970s, where garage conversions and rear extensions are popular.
If your home is in Cheshunt or close by in Waltham Abbey, Enfield and Hoddesdon, a free home visit is the first step.
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 handover
Work follows the agreed programme, with inspections along the way and a completion certificate at the end.
Questions about orangeries in Cheshunt
Can an orangery replace a conservatory?
Yes. We can remove an old conservatory and build an orangery on new or upgraded foundations.
How much does an orangery cost in Cheshunt?
In Cheshunt, an orangery typically costs £2,550–£3,600 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 16 m² project comes to roughly £41,000–£57,500. 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.
What is the difference between an orangery and a conservatory?
An orangery has a solid roof around a central lantern and more brickwork, while a conservatory is mostly glazed. Orangeries are usually warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
How long does an orangery take in Cheshunt?
Typically 8 to 12 weeks on site. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 6 to 12 weeks.
