Orangeries are making a comeback and are the luxurious must-have for your home, but what is an orangery and why are we aspiring to have one?

Orangeries first started popping up in central Europe around the 16th century, when glass-making technology had advanced. Their main purpose was to winter citrus fruits and exotic plants, hence the name! With the trade of these fruits and plants increasing, wealthy people were keen to have their own place to maintain these luxuries all year round, so they built grand orangeries.

Traditional and elegant

The rich and wealthy in society built orangeries onto their grand homes, in elegant gardens or on their acres of land. They often contained stoves to keep them warm during the winter and were not just used to house plants. They would flaunt their riches to guests, giving them a tour of the grounds, before entertaining in the orangery; some were even built with fountains inside.

Some of the earliest examples of orangeries are found in Italy, with one in Padua being dated back to 1545, but it was not as well planned as modern versions. They hit the height of fashion between the 16th and 17th century.

Closer to home

Britain has quite a few notable orangeries, including one at Kensington Palace (built in 1761), Chatsworth House has a beautiful orangery now used as a gift shop, and the stunning Blickling Hall orangery was built in the 18th century and is a beautiful design. Some grand examples of orangeries across Europe include the Musée de l’Orangerie, which contains arts and murals by art icons Picasso and Monet, or the Parc de l’Orangerie in Strasbourg that was built in dedication to Napoleon’s wife Joséphine, on the incredibly romantic grounds that also contain a lake and a waterfall.

So why do we want them now?

There are many benefits to having an orangery for your home now. You may not have acres of land and a stately mansion to build a grandiose orangery on, but the British are a very house proud nation and many want luxurious looking homes. An orangery, no matter how big or small, definitely adds a glamorous extra room for entertaining, cooking or relaxing.

It is not only an extra space you are gaining though; with the glass roof and amount of windows or bi-fold doors, you will be bathed in daylight and have a view of the stars at night. The clear glass surrounding opens up the room with lush views into your garden or surrounding area, which helps give the room a larger feel. However, the fact there are solid walls also allows for it to be used for many different purposes. It’s very rare that you will see a wood-burner or a kitchen in a conservatory, but with an orangery, the options are endless.

Open plan living is also an ever increasing reason to extend your home; combining a living area with a kitchen for a more social dinner party is an increasing trend.