A Guide to Small Conservatories & Orangeries
The benefits, design ideas and inspiration
Updated: 12th August 2024
At Vale Garden Houses, we understand that a small garden or limited budget should not prevent you from enjoying the beauty and comfort of a conservatory or orangery. A smaller-sized extension can be a cost-effective and versatile addition to any home, providing an extra space that brings the outdoors inside.
In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of a small conservatory, design ideas and other frequently asked questions. We will also share examples of our completed works from which you can draw inspiration for your own project.
What are the benefits of a small orangery or conservatory?
The smallest of spaces can be used to create a unique addition to any home and often becomes a treasured and valuable room providing much-needed additional space. This makes adding a garden room the perfect solution for those with a small garden or limited outdoor space.
Conservatories are frequently built in the most unlikely of places and a useful room can be created out of a previously unused part of a garden or courtyard. Filling an awkward space or dark recess with an attractive functional room, no matter how small, is a great investment and ‘no-brainer’.
A smaller room requires less maintenance than a larger one, making it a practical choice for those who want to enjoy the benefits of a conservatory without spending too much time or money on upkeep.
Does a small garden room add value to my home?
Adding a conservatory to your home will not only give you extra space, but it can also add to your home’s value. Choosing the right style, fit and shape can make your conservatory an asset that’ll be well worth the investment when it’s time to sell your property.
This is particularly the case if your home is already small with limited space available - even a small conservatory will add a generous percentage increase to the footprint of the property.
It is also worth remembering that a small conservatory or orangery will cost a lot less than a large one - making it more accessible for those with a limited budget.
Does a small conservatory or orangery require planning permission?
In terms of planning permissions, there are a variety of considerations to take into account and every project, regardless of size, is different.
Permitted Development rights allow you to complete certain building projects without the need for formal approvals; however, there is a strict list of criteria you must meet. Permitted Development rights do not always apply to every property in the UK. Once you have established that your project meets the necessary conditions, a sensible route for obtaining confirmation of this is to apply for a Certificate of Lawfulness from your local council. As with other planning permissions, such as householder and listed building consent, you may need assistance with this process.
Our best advice if you are approaching Vale for your project is to consult with one of our designers or directly with our specialist dedicated in-house planning team. This way we can ensure you have undertaken the correct assessments for your project, property and local area.
Ideas for Small Conservatories
When it comes to designing a project on a smaller scale, a good designer can help you make the most of your space. Here are some design ideas that we recommend to provide the very best outcome from your investment.
Opt for a style that complements your home. Vale have a wealth of experience in designing for a variety of architectural eras and building styles. We will work with you to design a conservatory that matches the architecture of your home and achieves a cohesive look.
A smaller space can also benefit from natural light, so don’t choose a garden room design with a solid roof if you can avoid it. A glazed roof will allow you to let in as much light as possible, making your space feel bright and airy.
When questioning how small you can go when adding a conservatory, this can vary depending on your needs, the space available and your budget. We can design and build projects to any size and shape. However, to give you an idea, a room 2.5 metres by 2.5 metres internally will just about squeeze in a cosy seating area and a bistro table for two. You can use it for living and dining, making the most from your room.
How to use a small conservatory or orangery
A bright, light and airy space can be incredibly versatile, no matter how small. As you can see from the images below, our clients have found many uses for their new garden rooms, including as a kitchen conservatory and dining conservatory. These garden rooms have also been used as an entrance hall, office (great for those who now work from home) and most frequently as a great place to simply relax and unwind.
Keep It Decluttered
A cluttered interior can make a small space feel even smaller, therefore opting for a minimalist approach with a few well-chosen pieces of furniture and décor will pay dividends and make your conservatory feel spacious and inviting.
Use of Plants
Plants are a great way to introduce life and colour into a conservatory. We can recommend plants that thrive in a conservatory environment and have a dedicated conservatory plant guide which can be found on our website. Plants will help bring the outdoors in and give your garden room a more vibrant, fresh and spacious feel.
You can still go green
If you have a little trouble keeping plant life happy, you can always cheat a little and add a touch of the outdoors into your room with some lively wallpaper as seen on the right.
Small projects in towns and cities
We find that in some properties, typically those in bustling towns and cities, you might need to be a little more inventive when it comes to optimising how you use your space. In houses and flats with smaller living spaces and gardens every square metre is valuable.
Adding a conservatory not only gains precious extra space within the home, but also allows light to flood into existing rooms.
More inspirational small extensions
Small orangery on a townhouse
This townhouse has been extended with a small orangery which opens onto a beautiful courtyard.
Country property with a small orangery extension
This small solid roof orangery created a dedicated space for knitting, reading, and taking in the sights of the lovely country garden.
Other Projects
Below is a selection of additional small conservatory projects designed with a variety of styles, including some that incorporate bronze windows.
Speak to our design team or request a brochure
Vale Garden Houses have the expertise to help you design and build an extension to your home that meets your needs and complements your property. We have over 40 years of experience designing and manufacturing bespoke conservatories and can work with you to create a conservatory that suits your style, space, and budget. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you bring your project to life.
What is an orangery?
Understand the difference between a conservatory and an orangery by reading our comprehensive article on the differences.
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