The dating of the architectural ensemble of the Lower Houses of the Oranienbaum palace complex remains a subject of debate. Some historians believe they originated during the time the estate belonged to Peter III, that is, in the mid-18th century. However, most art historians think that the Lower Houses were built simultaneously with the Grand Menshikov Palace, dating them to the years 1710-1720.

The ensemble of the Lower Houses consists of five buildings located east of the palace. They are conditionally divided into two groups: the western and eastern wings. The western wings include three buildings facing Palace Avenue and connected by a common wall. Between the outermost houses, there are gates leading to the inner courtyard, giving the western wings a unified composition. The two eastern wings stand separately and face inward toward the park.

Originally, the Lower Houses were inhabited by members of the palace staff, as well as garden and park personnel, hence their historical name, "Service Buildings." However, only four of the five buildings were residential, as the largest central building of the western group housed a greenhouse.

In the 19th century, all five buildings were partially rebuilt and renovated. The western wings received second floors, while the eastern ones remained single-story. All baroque architectural elements of the Lower Houses were preserved, allowing them to remain an organic part of the palace and park complex, harmonizing with the main building of the Grand Palace.

After the renovations in the 19th century, the appearance of the Lower Houses did not change. They were not damaged during the war or post-war years and currently represent a typical example of 18th-century residential architecture.