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 Shirley?
In Shirley, an orangery typically costs £2,350–£3,300 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 16 m² project that is roughly £37,500–£53,000. Prices in the West Midlands sit near the national average for this kind of work, and the range for Shirley reflects that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (11 m²) | £26,000–£36,500 |
| Typical project (16 m²) | £37,500–£53,000 |
| Larger project (22 m²) | £51,500–£72,500 |
| Rate per m² | £2,350–£3,300 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Size and shape of the footprint
- Frame material and colour
- Amount and type of glazing
- Opening into the house
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 Shirley?
The approval route for Shirley 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.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
What we take care of:
- Insulated perimeter roof with internal pelmet
- Foundations and dwarf walls or piers
- Flooring and decoration options
- Roof lantern and glazed panels
- Building control sign-off where required
- Design to suit the style of the house
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 Shirley
The West Midlands has large numbers of 1930s semis and Victorian terraces, which suit rear extensions, side extensions and dormer loft conversions.
If your home is in Shirley or close by in Solihull, Birmingham and Smethwick, a free home visit is the first step.
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
Build and handover
Work follows the agreed programme, with inspections along the way and a completion certificate at the end.
Questions about orangeries in Shirley
How long does an orangery take in Shirley?
Typically 8 to 12 weeks on site. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 6 to 12 weeks.
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.
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.
How much does an orangery cost in Shirley?
In Shirley, an orangery typically costs £2,350–£3,300 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 16 m² project comes to roughly £37,500–£53,000. 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.