Conservatories and orangeries both provide indoor living spaces at the home that offer expansive views of outdoor surroundings and beautiful floods of natural light perfect for growing plants. But there are some differences between the traditional architectural designs of these two structures. To better portray both of these, below are some photos of inspiring conservatories and orangeries designed by Chicago, Illinois-based Town & Country.

A traditional English conservatory, like the one pictured below, appears to be an original part of the house rather than an addition. Conservatories can be compared to what we often call sunrooms.

A predecessor of the conservatory, orangeries are often built in courtyards. They are most commonly designed with a solid flat roof and molded interior soffits that allow for lighting or air-conditioning outlets. The sloped box gutters, concealed steel and door openings of orangeries often allow them to serve as both an indoor and outdoor space that can be enjoyed year-round.

Source: Town & Country
Photos via Town & Country

Columbine Design Landscape Professionals here in Colorado can custom design and build conservatories and orangeries to attach to your home or stand alone in your landscape. Our experienced gardeners can even fill your conservatory or orangery with a spectacular container garden full of the perfect plantings.