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 Totton?
In Totton, an orangery typically costs £2,700–£3,800 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 16 m² project that is roughly £43,000–£61,000. Building costs in the South East run about 12% above the UK average, and the figures for Totton are adjusted to reflect that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (11 m²) | £29,500–£42,000 |
| Typical project (16 m²) | £43,000–£61,000 |
| Larger project (22 m²) | £59,500–£83,500 |
| Rate per m² | £2,700–£3,800 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Heating and flooring
- Size and shape of the footprint
- Lantern size
- Amount and type of glazing
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 Totton?
The approval route for Totton 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
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Building control sign-off where required
- Foundations and dwarf walls or piers
- Flooring and decoration options
- Insulated perimeter roof with internal pelmet
- Electrics, heating and plastering
- French, sliding or bifold doors
How long does it take?
Expect 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 Totton
The South East has a broad mix of housing, from Victorian terraces in the towns to post-war semis and newer estates, so extension types vary street by street.
If your home is in Totton or close by in Southampton, Hythe and Eastleigh, a free home visit is the first step.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Design and fixed quote
Drawings, structural calculations and an itemised, fixed price for the agreed specification.
- 03
Permissions sorted
Applications, building control and neighbour arrangements, all before the start date.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about orangeries in Totton
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 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 Totton?
In Totton, an orangery typically costs £2,700–£3,800 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 16 m² project comes to roughly £43,000–£61,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Can an orangery replace a conservatory?
Yes. We can remove an old conservatory and build an orangery on new or upgraded foundations.
Who approves an orangery in Totton?
Planning matters in Totton go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
