Award-winning hybrid orangery installation in Westoning, Bedfordshire

Visiting their local SEHBAC showroom for expert advice, this client had a clear vision of extending their kitchen and dining space with a large glazed structure that allowed the light to flood in, whilst doubling up as the perfect area to relax and entertain in.

This project placed emphasis on a light and airy space that seamlessly matched the look and feel of the existing exterior. Taking care of all the planning and building regulations in a timely manner, we set about creating a comfortable well-lit room suitable for year-round enjoyment.

Striking glazed extension tailored to modern living

Originally wanting an orangery, due to financial restraints the client eventually opted for the best of both worlds in the form of a hybrid orangery installation – more permanent than a conservatory but delivering the exquisite feel of an orangery without the extra cost.

The most prominent challenges that were overcome included removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room and supporting the box gutter with supports that could not be seen or lowered to the head height of the pelmet. Various other challenges included testing ground conditions that required an engineered foundation to meet with current building controls, a bespoke hip back roof design to allow for more bricks and uPVC compared to a standard conservatory, sympathetically designed Georgian style windows and matching Georgian handles and hardware, and two sets of French doors.

In such a large glass structure, ventilation was key, so a combination of 18 top hung and side hung opening sashes were allocated as well as 4 automated roof vents.

Opting for the classic orangery roof style, the Ultraframe Classic roof complete with the decorative classic Cornice was an obvious choice. Delivering traditional aesthetics and essential shade, a wide internal pelmet was requested on the elevation, as well as a pelmet at the rear where the home bar would be located.

The use of glass was crucial in a roof of this size to effectively keep the space cool in summer and as warm as possible during the winter months. With this in mind, the unsurpassed SMARTGLASS® Ultra 86 with toughened glass was chosen. Coupled with the additional ventilation of the roof vents, the clients can effortlessly maintain the correct indoor temperatures required for modern living.

Fully automated roof vents were preferable due to such a high roof ridge, so the vents were supplied with a thermostatic controller plus a rain sensor, literally covering the client from all angles and protecting against midsummer showers even when the temperatures may be high. The Ultraframe roof also benefits from a hidden vent in the ridge to help during the hotter months.