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 Thurso?
In Thurso, 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. Island and remote projects usually cost more than this guide because of shipping, travel and accommodation. 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 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Frame material and colour
- Opening into the house
- Heating and flooring
- Lantern size
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 Thurso?
Approvals for an orangery in Thurso follow the rules for Scotland. In Scotland a single-storey extension is often permitted development (Class 1A): where any part is within 1 metre of a boundary, it can project up to 3 metres from the rear wall of a terraced house or 4 metres on other houses, with eaves no higher than 3 metres, an overall height of 4 metres and no more than half the front or rear garden covered. The rights do not apply in conservation areas or to flats, and a building warrant will usually still be needed before work starts.
Scotland has no Party Wall Act. Work on shared walls is governed by your title deeds, the Tenements (Scotland) Act 2004 for flats, and common law, so we agree arrangements with neighbours in writing before work starts.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Design to suit the style of the house
- Flooring and decoration options
- Roof lantern and glazed panels
- Electrics, heating and plastering
- Foundations and dwarf walls or piers
- 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 Thurso
Scotland’s housing ranges from sandstone tenements and villas to post-war and modern estates, and the building warrant system shapes how projects are planned.
Projects in Thurso are taken on by arrangement. We confirm availability first, and any travel or accommodation costs are shown separately in the quote.
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
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 03
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 04
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about orangeries in Thurso
Can it be used all year?
Yes. With an insulated roof, efficient glazing and heating, an orangery is comfortable all year.
How much does an orangery cost in Thurso?
In Thurso, 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.
Do I need planning permission for an orangery in Thurso?
In Scotland a single-storey extension is often permitted development (Class 1A): where any part is within 1 metre of a boundary, it can project up to 3 metres from the rear wall of a terraced house or 4 metres on other houses, with eaves no higher than 3 metres, an overall height of 4 metres and no more than half the front or rear garden covered. The rights do not apply in conservation areas or to flats, and a building warrant will usually still be needed before work starts.
How long does an orangery take in Thurso?
Typically 8 to 12 weeks on site. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 6 to 12 weeks.
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.
Can an orangery replace a conservatory?
Yes. We can remove an old conservatory and build an orangery on new or upgraded foundations.