Covering Exeter
Exeter is about 36 miles north-east of Plymouth. We also cover Exmouth (9 miles to the south-east), Tiverton and Newton Abbot.
Homes in the South West
In the South West, matching local stone, render or slate is often the main design question, and conservation areas and listed buildings are common in historic towns.
What is an orangery?
An orangery is a single-storey extension with brick piers or walls, large windows and a glazed lantern set into a solid, insulated roof. It sits between a conservatory and a full extension: lighter than an extension, warmer and more solid than a conservatory.
- Planning or permitted development check
- Insulated roof perimeter with plastered pelmet
- Heating, electrics and decoration-ready finish
How much should I budget for an orangery?
Indicative costs for orangeries. London and the South East usually sit towards the top of each range.
| Orangeries | Guide price incl. VAT |
|---|---|
| Standard specification | £3,000 to £3,500 per m² |
| Good specification | £3,500 to £4,100 per m² |
| High specification | £4,100 to £4,800 per m² |
What approvals does an orangery need in England?
In England we deal with the council’s planning team for permission or a lawful development certificate, with building control (the council or a registered building control approver) for inspections, and with neighbours under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 where it applies.
In England a single-storey rear extension can often go ahead under permitted development: up to 3 m deep on an attached house or 4 m on a detached one, no higher than 4 m, with eaves no higher than 3 m within 2 m of a boundary.
What can change the price or programme?
- An orangery open to the house needs to meet energy rules, which limits the proportion of glazing.
- Solar-control glass in the lantern stops summer overheating.
What happens after I enquire?
- Tell us about the project. Call, use the guide price tool or send the form with a few photos and a postcode.
- Survey at your house. We look at the existing structure, services and access, and agree what the design needs to achieve.
- Drawings, approvals, written quote. We prepare the design, apply for the approvals it needs, and give you a fixed price in writing.
- Construction and completion. One site lead co-ordinates every trade through to the building control certificate.
What people ask before starting
What is the difference between an orangery and a conservatory?
An orangery has a mostly solid, insulated roof with a glazed lantern and brick piers, so it behaves like a room of the house. A conservatory is mostly glass.
Can it be used in winter?
Yes. It is insulated and heated like any other room.
Can you visit a house in Exeter to quote?
Yes. After a short call we arrange a site visit to measure up and agree what the design needs to do, then send a written price.
Orangeries in nearby towns
Learn more about orangeries, or see every project we cover in Exeter.

