Believe it or not, an orange kitchen accessory can be a truly contemporary addition to a modern home and will add value, light, and space.
In the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries, the orangery was a room or annex where orange trees and other exotic fruit trees and plants were sheltered during the winter months. It was originally a very large form of greenhouse or conservatory, but it was a brick structure with large glazed windows rather than being made entirely of glass. Orange became associated with intricate architecture and grand homes, but by the end of the 19th century, oranges gave way to all-glass buildings, like the conservatories we know today.
Orangeries are back in fashion in earnest and range from traditional Georgian designs with ornate windows to completely contemporary buildings. By stripping the lower portion of the back facade, the architects created a new double-height home extension, floating halfway between the ground floor and basement. The Orangery acts as a lamp, collecting sunlight in the deep living spaces inside the house. Architect Sophie Goldhill shares her advice for planning an orange…
1. Choose the right location for your orange
(Image credit: Keith Cooley)
The first thing to consider is Orangery’s proposed location. Sophie explains how you will relate to your current home and most importantly the way you experience it. Eastern expanses will catch the sun’s rays in the morning, while the western stretches will catch the afternoon and evening sun. Therefore, the ideal location is in the southeast or southwest where they will be bathed in sunlight for part of the day and will have time to cool off.
Designed by Liddicoat & Goldhill, slim, steel-framed glass gives the new structure a sense of vulnerability, while handcrafted oak furniture, stairs, and the kitchen create continuity between new and old spaces. If you are considering adding an extension to your home, orange or otherwise, here are the best additions to add value.
2. Check if you need planning permission for an orange
(Image credit: Future)
Depending on the size and location of the proposed orange, you may need planning permission. ‘It’s a good idea to check with the local authority or work with an architect who can advise,’ says Sophie. If you are about to plan a kitchen extension, always make sure you are familiar with everything from planning permission and building control to windows and lighting.
3. Assess whether you need to lay foundations
(Image credit: Future)
This modern kitchen overlooks a double-height extension in an orangey style that brings heaps of lights into a darkened space. Shaker units and pendant lighting in the shape of an antique glass island bring contemporary character to the expansive glass.
If you are building a new structure, foundations will likely be required. You may need to dig a pilot hole to advise on current soil conditions. A structural engineer should be consulted in this regard. Sophie also explains, if you want to expose the structure, you’ll need to work closely with the architect, engineer, and building controller.
4. Decide what your oranges will be used for
(Image credit: Future)
This orange-themed living room extension is incorporated into the existing space rather than built as a separate room, which is what the original orange would have been, making it feel connected and part of the home.
It is important to consider what you are making oranges for? Will it be an extension of your existing living spaces or a separate space to relax, eat and work? Sophie asks. “It is important to place the interior design of the furniture and access of course and the relationship to the outdoor space is key. How much solid wall space is required and where are the windows and doors. It is a good idea to consider it an all-encompassing space to maximize its use, so thinking about how it works in all seasons is essential.
5. Use the orange stretch to maximize the light
(Image credit: French & Tye)
Sophie stresses that “increasing daylight and garden views is vital.” Think carefully about the type of glass you want. Do you want full height panels or smaller panels to frame a specific width. Also thinking about the type of doors you have is key. Do you want to open a single front in the summer? Thinking about thresholds is also important. How and where you want the new space to meet your garden, etc.
6. Get the right heating
(Image credit: Future)
“Getting your heating and cooling system right is a priority on your checklist,” Sophie says. The room will need good heating for the winter months, and this is where underfloor heating can work well. Ventilation is essential in the summer, so having high-level vents for natural ventilation works well. We always suggest working with a service engineer who can advise and model different environmental conditions and advise on strategy.
Crittall kitchen extension ideas remain an incredibly popular choice and continue to add character and a slight industrial edge to your new space.
7. Fill oranges with greens
(Image credit: Future)
“The fun thing is dressing up your new space at the end. We often work with plant designers and designers who can advise on the best plants and species that will work best in the new space,” Sophie says. “Historically, an orange was a room on the grounds Upscale 17th to 19th century dwellings where orange trees and other fruit were sheltered during the winter, so filling them with green seems very appropriate.”