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 Dorset?
In Dorset, 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. Prices in the South West sit near the national average for this kind of work, and the range for Dorset reflects that. 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 main things that change the cost:
- Amount and type of glazing
- Opening into the house
- Size and shape of the footprint
- Heating and flooring
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 Dorset?
The approval route for Dorset 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
The work we manage on an orangery:
- Insulated perimeter roof with internal pelmet
- Foundations and dwarf walls or piers
- Electrics, heating and plastering
- Roof lantern and glazed panels
- French, sliding or bifold doors
- Design to suit the style of the house
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 8 to 12 weeks on site. Before that, surveys, drawings and approvals usually take 6 to 12 weeks, longer if the council asks for changes.
Building in Dorset
In parts of the South West, protected landscapes and conservation areas shape what can be built, so materials and roof forms are chosen carefully.
Towns we cover in Dorset include Bournemouth, Poole, Weymouth and Christchurch.
How it works
- 01
Free visit
We look at the property, talk through what you want and measure up. There is no charge and no obligation.
- 02
Design and pricing
Design options, then a fixed quote based on the chosen drawings and specification.
- 03
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about orangeries in Dorset
How much does an orangery cost in Dorset?
In Dorset, 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.
How long does it take?
Typically 8 to 12 weeks on site once approvals are in place.
Does an orangery need building regulations approval?
If it is open to the house or does not meet the conservatory exemption, yes. Most orangeries are treated as extensions and need building control approval, which we arrange.
Do you build orangeries in Dorset?
Yes. We build orangeries across Dorset, including postcodes BA22, BH1, BH10, BH11 and BH12. Every project starts with a free home visit.
Can it be used all year?
Yes. With an insulated roof, efficient glazing and heating, an orangery is comfortable all year.