Orangery vs greenhouse: what is the difference?

If you are looking to upgrade your garden, you will often come across two popular options: an orangery and a greenhouse. At first glance, they may look quite similar. Both are structures with a lot of glass and a strong frame. But in practice, they serve a different purpose.

So what exactly is the difference, and which one is right for you?

A greenhouse is specifically designed for growing plants. It creates the ideal environment for seeds, vegetables and flowers to grow.

The focus is on:

• temperature control

• humidity

• plant growth

Greenhouses are often filled with plants, trays and growing systems. Everything is set up to support cultivation.

An orangery is designed as a space to enjoy your garden in a more comfortable way. It is a freestanding structure with a strong aluminium frame and large glass panels, often used as a place to relax, dine or spend time with others.

The focus here is on:

• comfort and atmosphere

• space and design

• enjoying your outdoor environment

It feels more like an extension of your living space, but placed in your garden.

The main difference comes down to how you use the space. A greenhouse is built for growing plants as efficiently as possible. An orangery is designed for living and relaxing in your garden. That said, the structure of an orangery makes it more versatile than many people think.

Yes, and this is something we see quite often.

Because orangeries have large glass surfaces and plenty of natural light, they can also be used for growing plants. Many people choose to combine both functions. For example, using part of the space for plants and another part for seating.

This gives you the best of both worlds:

• a space to grow plants

• a place to relax and enjoy your garden

It may not replace a traditional greenhouse for intensive growing, but for hobby gardening and enjoying greenery, an orangery works very well.

It depends on what you are looking for. If your main goal is to grow as many plants as possible and optimise growing conditions, a greenhouse is the better choice. If you want a comfortable and stylish space where you can relax and still enjoy plants around you, an orangery is often the better fit. And if you like the idea of combining both, an orangery offers that flexibility.

Gardenmeister orangeries combine a black aluminium frame with large glass panels, creating a modern and timeless look. The roof can be finished with glass or polycarbonate, depending on your preference.

Because they are freestanding, you can place them anywhere in your garden and use them in a way that suits your lifestyle.

Whether you want to grow plants, relax or combine both, the right choice depends on how you want to use your garden. Explore our orangeries: