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 South Shields?
In South Shields, an orangery typically costs £2,150–£3,050 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 16 m² project that is roughly £34,500–£49,000. Building costs in the North East run about 10% below the UK average, and the figures for South Shields are adjusted to reflect that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (11 m²) | £23,500–£33,500 |
| Typical project (16 m²) | £34,500–£49,000 |
| Larger project (22 m²) | £47,500–£67,000 |
| Rate per m² | £2,150–£3,050 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Heating and flooring
- Size and shape of the footprint
- Amount and type of glazing
- 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 South Shields?
Approvals for an orangery in South Shields 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
On a typical orangery we handle:
- Electrics, heating and plastering
- Design to suit the style of the house
- Flooring and decoration options
- Building control sign-off where required
- Insulated perimeter roof with internal pelmet
- French, sliding or bifold doors
How long does it take?
Expect 8 to 12 weeks on site. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 6 to 12 weeks.
Building in South Shields
Across the North East, colliery-era terraces and newer estates sit side by side, so the right project depends on the house type.
From NE33 outwards, we take on projects throughout South Shields and the surrounding parts of Tyne and Wear.
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
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about orangeries in South Shields
How much does an orangery cost in South Shields?
In South Shields, an orangery typically costs £2,150–£3,050 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 16 m² project comes to roughly £34,500–£49,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Do you build orangeries in South Shields?
Yes. We build orangeries across South Shields, including postcodes NE33. 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.
How long does it take?
Typically 8 to 12 weeks on site once approvals are in place.
Can an orangery replace a conservatory?
Yes. We can remove an old conservatory and build an orangery on new or upgraded foundations.
