If you are planning to add a conservatory, orangery, or frameless glass extension, one of your biggest concerns is likely the cost. Prices can vary significantly, depending on the type of structure, materials, size, and additional features.

The conservatory cost market is broad. Some companies offer off-the-shelf options or even flat-pack conservatories that you can assemble yourself. These tend to be cheaper but come with limitations. On the other end of the scale, bespoke designs offer custom-built solutions tailored to your home.

A high-quality, handcrafted conservatory or orangery is a long-term investment. While cheaper alternatives may seem appealing, they often come with hidden costs and may not meet structural or design expectations.

What Does a Bespoke Glass Extension Cost?

A custom-built glass extension requires a minimum budget of £25,000 for a small uPVC structure. However, the final investment will depend on several factors, including the type of structure you choose, the size, materials, and design features.

• Entry-level conservatories: Start at £25,000
• Typical custom designs: Range from £35,000 – £50,000
• Premium orangeries and large extensions: Can exceed £100,000

The more complex and luxurious the design, the higher the investment. If you’re looking for an estimate, the guide below will help you understand the factors that impact conservatory cost.

1. Type of structure

Your choice of structure greatly impacts the cost:

• Conservatories: Typically start at £25,000 – £40,000
• Orangeries: Mid-range cost, with large timber orangeries reaching £50,000 – £100,000
• Frameless Glass Extensions: Often misunderstood as a lower-cost option, these premium structures start at £35,000 for small designs and typically exceed £100,000 for larger projects

The size and complexity of the structure also affect the price. A large conservatory may cost more than a small orangery, and a large orangery could require more investment than a small frameless extension.

2. Frame material

The material you choose will impact both cost and aesthetics:

• uPVC – The most affordable option, available in limited colours.
• Hardwood Timber & Oak – A premium choice, handcrafted for durability and elegance.
• Aluminium – A modern, mid-range option, lightweight and energy-efficient.

While timber frames require occasional maintenance, they offer exceptional longevity and timeless beauty. Aluminium provides a sleek, contemporary finish, and uPVC is a cost-effective, low-maintenance solution.

3. Size of the Extension

The bigger your structure, the higher the cost.

Many homeowners make the mistake of compromising on size to save money. However, people rarely regret choosing a different frame material but often wish they had built a larger space.

A well-sized extension ensures your new space meets your long-term needs.

4. Glass-to-wall ratio

The amount of glass in your extension also affects conservatory cost.

• More glass = higher cost
• Dwarf walls can help reduce costs while maintaining insulation
• Full-height walls may be needed if you plan to place furniture like cabinets or bookshelves

Deciding on the right balance will help you control budget and functionality.

5. Type of Glass

Not all conservatory glass is the same. The wrong choice can make your extension too hot in summer and freezing in winter.

• Temperature and solar control glass prevents overheating
• Double or triple glazing improves insulation
• UV-blocking glass protects furniture from fading

A cheaper glazing option may seem like a cost-saving measure, but it can reduce comfort and usability.

6. Groundwork & Additional Construction

Your existing property and land conditions also influence the total cost.

• Older properties may require extra work to support the structure
• Uneven or unstable ground may need additional foundation work
• Listed buildings may require special permissions and materials

It’s also worth considering the cost of removing walls or making open-plan adjustments to integrate your extension with the rest of your home.

7. Finishing Touches and Décor

Final design elements also play a role in conservatory cost.

• Finials, decorative hardware, and lighting
• Blinds and shading options
• Furnishings and interior styling

While these elements add character, they also contribute to overall investment costs.

Why Choose a Bespoke Glass Extension?

At Room Outside, we believe that a fully bespoke conservatory, orangery, or frameless glass extension is the best way to achieve the glass room of your dreams.

• Over 50 years of experience
• Custom-designed to suit your property and lifestyle
• High-quality craftsmanship for long-lasting value

We offer a turn-key service, managing everything from design to installation.

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation and let’s start designing your perfect glass extension.

One of the most common questions we receive is: “Will I be able to use my conservatory all year round?” Many people assume that glass rooms become too hot in summer and too cold in winter. Older conservatories, especially those with standard glazing, often suffer from extreme temperature fluctuations, excessive glare, and harmful UV exposure. These factors can make the space uncomfortable and even cause furniture and décor to fade.

Poor-quality glazing, still used by some conservatory installers, fails to provide effective thermal control. As a result, many conservatories remain unusable for large parts of the year due to the unpredictability of British weather. When you invest in a glass extension, you want to enjoy it in comfort throughout the seasons. That’s why we developed an advanced glazing solution to ensure our customers get the most from their conservatories and orangeries.

New Generation Glass exclusive to Room Outside

We were the very first company to exclusively introduce the revolutionary solar controlled Wonderglass™ into the UK market from Four Seasons Sunrooms in the USA in 1999. This has now been developed further and we believe that our New Generation Glass leads the field today, with its far superior specification, reflecting heat and light back to its source to keep your glass room at the optimum temperature throughout the seasons. NGG offers unsurpassed solar control alongside outstanding thermal performance, making this the best product in its class. These temperature control properties combined with self-cleaning technology makes our glass perfect for the extreme demands of a room built entirely of glass.

Thermally Insulated for Maximum Comfort

Our glass incorporates warm-edge technology with a spacer bar that is up to 950 times less conductive than aluminium. This design significantly improves insulation, increasing internal temperatures around the edges.

The U-value (a measure of heat loss and gain) is less than 1.0, depending on the option selected by our designers. The lower the U-value, the better the insulation, helping to keep your room warm during winter. Our glass also features a specially developed Low-E coating and is filled with Argon gas between double-glazed panes to enhance insulation even further.

Heat and Glare Reduction for Year-Round Use

Our NGG roof units reflect up to 86% of the sun’s rays. This means that heat is either reflected or absorbed by the glass, preventing excessive temperature build-up during the summer months. Additionally, NGG absorbs almost all harmful UV rays, protecting your family and preventing your furniture from fading. No other conservatory roof glass matches this level of performance.

See New Generation Glass in Action

Curious about how our glass performs? Watch our demonstration video, where we use a heat tunnel to compare conventional conservatory glass with our advanced New Generation Glass technology.

Planning a New Glass Extension or Upgrading an Existing One

If you are considering adding a conservatory, orangery, or glass extension—or upgrading your existing structure—our team of specialists is here to help. We can advise on planning permission, recommend the best glazing solutions, and provide a no-obligation quote.

Contact us today to find out how we can make your conservatory usable all year round!

Planning and designing a conservatory or glass extension can feel overwhelming. You want to make the right choices and avoid costly mistakes. To help, we’ve created this guide highlighting common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

1. Assuming Planning Permission Isn’t Required

Permitted development rights allow many home improvements without formal planning permission. However, some conservatories still need approval, especially for listed buildings or homes in areas of outstanding natural beauty. If you assume permission isn’t required, you may risk having to remove your new conservatory.

Choose a conservatory company with experience in planning regulations. They can guide you through the process and connect you with architects or planning officers. You can also check the Planning Portal for more information.

2. Choosing Low-Quality Glass Without Temperature Control

British weather is unpredictable, making temperature control essential for a glass extension. Standard glazing often leads to extreme heat in summer and cold in winter.

Invest in high-performance glass with a low U-value to retain heat in winter and reduce overheating in summer. While budget options may seem appealing, they can lead to discomfort and higher costs for future upgrades.

3. Selecting the Wrong Style or Size

A well-designed conservatory adds value to your home. However, poor design choices can reduce its appeal.

Ensure the style, size, and shape complement your existing property. A professional conservatory designer will help create a structure that flows with your home’s architecture while providing a functional space that suits your lifestyle.

4. Over-Investing Beyond Property Value

A glass extension can increase your home’s market value, but there is a limit. Spending beyond what the extension adds in value may not be financially wise.

Consider a property valuation before setting your budget. This will help balance your dream conservatory with a practical investment that maximises returns.

5. Compromising on Space to Save Money

Budget constraints can lead to compromises, but reducing size isn’t always the best way to cut costs. A conservatory that is too small may become impractical and limit functionality.

A customer survey found that the biggest regret among conservatory buyers was not choosing a larger space. Ensure your conservatory meets your needs before making final decisions.

6. Ignoring Landscaping Around the Conservatory

The focus will be on designing your conservatory, but don’t forget the surrounding area. Construction can disrupt your garden, and you may need to restore or redesign landscaping once the build is complete.

Updating the garden around your conservatory enhances the overall aesthetic. Factor this into your budget to achieve a seamless finish.

7. Overlooking Maintenance Costs

Regular maintenance keeps your conservatory looking its best. Timber-framed structures need repainting or re-treating every few years. Cleaning the glass and maintaining the seals will also extend its lifespan.

While DIY maintenance is possible, it can be time-consuming and risky. A professional cleaning and maintenance service ensures your conservatory stays in top condition without hassle.

8. Forgetting to Plan Furniture and Interior Design

The way you use your conservatory will influence its layout and size. When designing your conservatory, think about furniture placement and functionality before finalising the design.

For example, do you need space for a large dining table? Will tall furniture require solid walls instead of full-length glass? Also, consider electrical points, internet access, and heating to create a practical space that suits your lifestyle.

Why Choose Room Outside?

With over 50 years of experience, Room Outside specialises in designing and building bespoke conservatories, orangeries, and glass extensions. We have worked on homes across the UK, including listed properties and those in protected areas.

Our team offers expert guidance on planning regulations, design choices, and long-term maintenance. We also provide specialist deep valet cleaning and refurbishment services to keep your investment in perfect condition.

Contact us today to discuss your project and discover how we can help you create the perfect conservatory for your home.

If you’re thinking about buying a conservatory, there are several key factors to consider before starting your project. Taking the time to plan properly will ensure that your new glass extension meets your needs and adds value to your home.

1. Purpose and Use

Before starting your conservatory or glass extension project, think about how you’ll use the space. This will help determine the size, style, and layout.

• Will it be a dining area, a relaxing lounge, or a home office?
• Do you want an open-plan extension or a separate space?
• Would a standalone garden room work better for your needs?

A good conservatory designer will help tailor the space to your lifestyle, ensuring it functions as you envision.

2. Design and Materials

Gather inspiration by looking at similar projects online or creating a mood board. Your conservatory should complement the style of your home. When selecting materials, consider:

• Glass Type: Temperature-controlled glass keeps the space warm in winter and cool in summer.
• Frame Material: Timber frames offer durability and a classic look but require maintenance. uPVC is lower maintenance but may not provide the same premium aesthetic.
• Insulation & Heating: Proper insulation and heating options will make the conservatory usable year-round.

Additionally, factor in long-term maintenance. Some materials require more upkeep than others, so choose accordingly.

3. Budget and Cost Considerations

Budgeting is crucial when buying a conservatory. Consider all costs, including:

• Foundations and groundwork
• Materials and construction
• Interior design, furniture, and decoration
• Planning permissions (if required)

Bespoke high-quality conservatories start from around £20,000. While cheaper off-the-shelf options exist, they may not offer the same durability, quality, or customisation. Investing in a well-designed conservatory ensures better long-term value and enjoyment.

4. Property Value Impact

A well-designed conservatory can add up to 7% to your home’s value. However, the impact depends on:

• The size and style of the extension
• How well it integrates with your property
• The added functionality it provides

Before committing, get a property valuation to understand how much value a conservatory will add. This can also help you set a realistic budget.

5. Planning Permission

You may not always need planning permission, as many conservatories fall under permitted development rights. However, factors such as size, location, and listed building status can affect this. To avoid issues:

• Check government planning regulations
• Consult with your conservatory installer for guidance
• Contact your local planning authority if unsure

For more details, we have an in-depth blog on planning permission requirements.

6. Choosing the Right Conservatory Specialist

Before buying a conservatory check that you understand what level of service the company offer. Some provide a full-service package, managing everything from design to decoration, while others require more involvement from you.

Ask yourself:

• Do you want a hands-off approach or to project manage?
• Does the company have experience with your preferred design style?
• Can they show past projects to demonstrate quality?

Why Choose Room Outside?

At Room Outside, we have over 50 years of experience designing and building bespoke conservatories. Our expert team offers a full-service approach, handling everything from design to final decoration.

• We help navigate planning regulations
• We provide tailored design solutions
• We offer high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship

Take a look at our past projects for inspiration, or contact us for a no-obligation consultation. We’d love to help bring your dream conservatory to life!