Bespoke Orangery for Grade II Listed property in Surrey

Newly extended with an orangery that takes full advantage of the countryside views, this period home is now perfectly suited to the client’s requirements.

When the homeowners first purchased their grand country residence, they were charmed by the property’s period features and unique character. However, it soon became apparent that the interiors required some modifications, and they also missed the benefits of open plan living.

Sitting on the edge of a picturesque village in the middle of the Surrey countryside, the origins of the property can be dated back to the 16th century, with additional sections added during the Victorian period. Most houses with a similar history tend to have segmented, private rooms, and this building was no exception.

At the rear, an aged uPVC conservatory was attached to a small family room, which also leads off to an interconnecting annexe space, a small second kitchen and tiny washroom. With the main kitchen in the older part of the house, the homeowners felt that these smaller rooms were not maximising on the space inside their house and wanted an orangery that would create one large, modernised room. They loved the idea of a glazed structure so that they could look out over their beautiful, mature gardens with the paddock, pasture, and woodland beyond.

Creating a bespoke extension for a period home

Our challenge was to extend the living space while taking the architecture’s characteristics into account, but we also needed to understand how the clients live in their home and how they want to feel in their new space. Being a Grade II listed building, they were concerned that it would be more challenging to obtain planning permission. Luckily, the rear part of the property was newer, and therefore easier to obtain conservation consent. We took on the responsibility of putting the application together and submitting it on our client’s behalf.

As soon as our designs were approved, building works could begin. The first job was to remove the old conservatory. Then we added new structural openings to create a 31m² open-plan kitchen and dining space, with a utility room, WC and passageway leading though into the new area. Thomas Ford & Sons designed the modern kitchen. The clients chose our buff-grey Kentish Ragstone for the flooring to create a rustic, country aesthetic. They opted for underfloor heating to make the open-plan kitchen feel warm and inviting during the colder months.

Showcasing the classic characteristics of timber joinery with a stylish roof lantern

The large timber roof lantern encourages natural light into the room below, with Ogee moulding on the underside creating a timeless, detailed look. The decorative ball finials are made from resin, to help keep the rain out and prevent cracking. To help draw the warm air up and out, we fitted the roof lantern with two electronically operated automatic roof vents, which include rain sensors and thermostatic controls.

In the summer, the family can make the most of the sunshine by opening the two pairs of double doors, and we also added a stable door to create another exit route from the smaller utility room. Classic Casement windows were included, with oversized internal window cills. By choosing antique brass ironmongery, we ensured the charming historical feel remained a genuine part of the home. The gothic-style glazing bars add depth to the traditional timber joinery, helping everything to feel new and crisp while still reflecting the building’s period character.

A timber orangery which will stand the test of time 

Fully understanding the nature of timber as a building material, we always use engineered wood, with an external layer of Accoya® to ensure durability and longevity. Accoya® is a reliable and robust material which does not shrink or swell, so the joints, panes and frames of the orangery keep their perfect fit. What’s more, Accoya is made from fast-growing, sustainable FSC® or PEFC™ Radiata pine and is carbon neutral throughout its entire life cycle.

The client opted for Portland Stone, a fresh neutral shade, for both the internal and external joinery. We spray-applied the joinery with three coats of water-based microporous paint in our workshops, resulting in a flawless finish. We always use Teknos products, as their high-quality paint systems help to protect the joinery from UV exposure, weather conditions and fungal damage. All that’s required is a gentle wash down with soapy water on a biannual basis, and the paint will stay smooth and crack-free for up to 12 years before they need repainting. By combining Accoya® and Teknos paint, the timber structure will last for 50 years or more.

By investing in a new, bespoke orangery, the owners of this exclusive Grade II listed property can now enjoy all the benefits of open plan living. The design is perfectly suited to the client’s needs, transforming the rear of the period home into a comfortable, bright, family-friendly space. Contact Us today to order a brochure, speak to a member of our team, or arrange a visit to one of our showrooms.