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 Lowestoft?
In Lowestoft, 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. That range is adjusted for the East of England, where domestic building work typically costs around 6% above the national average. 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 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Frame material and colour
- Heating and flooring
- Amount and type of glazing
- Opening into the house
Your exact price depends on the survey and drawings. The guide price tool gives a quick range in the meantime.
Do you need planning permission for an orangery in Lowestoft?
Approvals for an orangery in Lowestoft 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.
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.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
Handled as part of most orangeries:
- Design to suit the style of the house
- Building control sign-off where required
- Roof lantern and glazed panels
- Insulated perimeter roof with internal pelmet
- Flooring and decoration options
- French, sliding or bifold doors
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 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 Lowestoft
Across the East of England, 1930s and post-war semis, newer estates and rural cottages all feature, each with different extension and loft options.
Our Lowestoft coverage includes postcode districts NR32, and we also work in nearby places such as Great Yarmouth, Norwich and Bowthorpe.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, discuss your ideas and budget, and survey the property or site at no cost.
- 02
Design and fixed quote
Drawings, structural calculations and an itemised, fixed price for the agreed specification.
- 03
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about orangeries in Lowestoft
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.
How much does an orangery cost in Lowestoft?
In Lowestoft, 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.
How long does an orangery take in Lowestoft?
Typically 8 to 12 weeks on site. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 6 to 12 weeks.
Can an orangery replace a conservatory?
Yes. We can remove an old conservatory and build an orangery on new or upgraded foundations.