Draft a profile of your future collection
List the plants, their expected quantity and size, how they will be arranged, and any preferences for the winter regime. Note whether you need a seating area for people and who will maintain the orangery. For a complex collection, bring in a plant specialist before finalizing the glass and climate systems.
Look at light transmittance, not just transparency
For botanical applications, Pilkington specifically addresses transmittance in the photosynthetically active range and offers low-iron and anti-reflective coated solutions (Pilkington: glass for plants). This shows why the visual appearance of "clear glass" is not enough on its own. Ask the designer to justify the specifications for your particular task.
Don't commit to maximum mirror effect upfront
If you like reflective architecture, discuss where that effect is actually needed: on specific façades, blank sections, or an adjacent pavilion. For the orangery itself, first define the light and climate requirements. The final choice should reconcile the architectural preference with the plants' living conditions.
Separate the building envelope from the microclimate
Ask for separate line items for the foundation, frame, insulated glass units, doors, opening elements, heating, ventilation, irrigation, and automation. Clarify who defines the control logic and handles the connections. The price of a glazed pavilion does not automatically include all the systems an orangery needs.
Plan for maintenance
Show walkways, water points, storage for tools, and access to opening elements on the plan. Discuss glass cleaning, joint inspections, and equipment servicing. It's better to build ease of maintenance into the design than to figure it out after the plants are in place.
What to send for a preliminary estimate
Prepare the region, dimensions, site photos, a plant list, seasonality preferences, and architectural references. Indicate whether you need only the design, a weathertight shell, or full delivery with coordinated microclimate systems. This lets the contractor propose a meaningful scope of work without unsubstantiated promises.