orangery
killay - 2009
Our client approached the practice in July 2008 to develop a new design to replace an existing orangery attached to their current property.
The previous problems of the plastic UPVC orangery with its thermally inefficient glazing coupled with tremendous solar gain in summer and significant heat loss in winter created an environmental burden and an uncomfortable living space for the majority of the year.
In response we presented a building of simplicity, with refined detailing that would allow the occupants to live among nature and focus on the spectacular views; while the proportions of the new orangery respect the existing formal configuration of the main house.
The new structure utilises environmental strategies that overcome the thermal deficiencies of the previous structure, using elegant oak solar shading to the perimeter roof. Oak ventilation panels are located either side of the orangery to encourage natural cross ventilation during the summer months. Sky-lights positioned at the rear of the Orangery balance light and soften the interior atmosphere, by reducing contrast and glare from the main windows that provide spectacular views over the Clyne Valley and to Mumbles Lighthouse in the distance.
The new Orangery has now become a place of contemplation and reflection among a remarkable setting.