- 7 October 2025|
- little_admin
Location: Shipton Oliffe, Cotswolds
Project: Replacement Structure – Flat-Roof uPVC Orangery
Property: Period home with challenging site access
Material: uPVC frame with aluminium lantern, Sapele roofline
Finish: Painswick Grey with Anthracite Grey Sarnafil roof
The Brief
Our clients in Shipton Oliffe wanted to replace their existing structure with something sleek, bright, and contemporary, yet sympathetic to the character of their period home. The vision centred on a flat-roof orangery with a very large central lantern to flood the space with light, framed in a soft Painswick Grey.
The property’s steeply sloping driveway made access tricky — and the size of the lantern itself presented a significant structural challenge. In addition, the roof finish needed to look refined while providing lasting protection from the elements.
Our Approach
Following a detailed on-site consultation, we prepared bespoke CAD renderings so the clients could see exactly how their new orangery would sit within the home’s architecture. Once approved, we dismantled and removed the existing structure entirely, clearing the site for the new build.
The large aluminium lantern was central to the design, and to accommodate its scale, we strengthened the new roof structure and brought the entire build up to current building regulations. The roofline was finished in Sapele hardwood for warmth and detail, contrasting beautifully with the Painswick Grey uPVC frames.
The Sarnafil Roof System
For the flat roof surface, we specified the Sarnafil single-ply membrane system — a premium roofing solution renowned for its seamless finish, ease of installation, and long-term durability. Supplied in Anthracite Grey, the roof perfectly replicates the traditional look of lead, blending heritage style with modern performance.
The Sarnafil system is low-maintenance, highly weather-resistant, and designed to deliver decades of protection, making it the ideal complement to the orangery’s timeless design.
Overcoming Site Challenges
The property’s steep driveway required careful planning for material deliveries, scaffolding, and equipment positioning. With precise logistics management, our team ensured safe access and uninterrupted progress throughout the project.
Full Project Management
From demolition to final detailing, every stage of the project was handled by our in-house team. This included structural reinforcement for the oversized lantern, compliance with building regulations, and installation of the Sarnafil roof system — all under our complete turnkey service.
The Result
The new orangery is both light-filled and beautifully finished, with the very large lantern making a bold architectural statement. The Anthracite Grey Sarnafil roof gives the appearance of traditional leadwork while offering the performance and reliability of a modern membrane system.
The combination of contemporary lines, premium materials, and expert craftsmanship has transformed the rear elevation of the property, delivering a space that can be enjoyed in all seasons.