An Orangery

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Historically an Orangery was a place for the cultivation of oranges and lemons and other exotic plants.

These buildings were first introduced to Northern Europe in the 1700's but did not start to become popular until the 1800's. The surrounding gardens in which orange trees were placed were referred to as ORANGERIES - although in time the term ORANGERIES was used to describe the ORANGERY buildings themselves.

The Classic Orangery Was Built of Stone

The classic Orangery design had stone built parapet walls containing large vertical sliding sash windows such that the glass area on the sides was in excess of 75%. They had a glass roof on timber rafters with a box gutter (usually cast Iron) all round inside the parapet wall. They were usual separate from the main house.

Today's Orangery Usually Built of Timber

Today the term "Orangery" has become fuzzier, referring to a largely glazed building with a glass roof. The Orangery is now often attached to the main house and used as room as well as for plants. Additionally many "Orangeries" are no longer built out of stone but primarily out of timber. In many respects today's Orangerie combines the best features of a traditionally built room extension with the benefits of "living under glass" - as afforded by conservatory and sunroom living.

Primary Orangery Building Materials Are Timber and Stone

The primary materials used for "Orangeries" still remain as Timber and Stone. These are still the best materials for "replicating" this most traditional of glass buildings although it is possible to find some suppliers using PVCu and Aluminium.

COSTS - Vary considerably depending on whether stone or timber is used for the main supporting structure. Generally speaking Orangeries are a PREMIUM product and will cost more than "normal" conservatories.

Article Source : eBuilders