Choosing Between a Roof Lantern and a Skylight for Natural Light: What's Best for Your Home?

Choosing Between a Roof Lantern and a Skylight for Natural Light: What's Best for Your Home?

When designing or renovating a home, one key aspect that significantly influences the ambiance and functionality of a space is natural light. Natural light not only makes a room feel more open and inviting but also offers health benefits by enhancing mood and energy levels. Two popular options for maximizing natural light in your home are roof lanterns and skylights. Both have unique advantages and are well-suited for different spaces, such as kitchens and orangeries. This blog post will help you decide which option is best for your needs.

Understanding Roof Lanterns and Skylights

Roof Lanterns:

A roof lantern is a glass structure installed on a flat roof. It typically has a pitched design, resembling a miniature glasshouse. Roof lanterns are often used to create a dramatic effect, bringing in a substantial amount of daylight and enhancing the architectural aesthetics of a space.

Skylights:

Skylights are windows installed directly into the roofline. They can be flat or domed and are designed to let in light from above. Skylights are versatile, suitable for sloped or flat roofs, and can be fixed or operable for ventilation.

Natural Light Considerations

Roof Lanterns:

• Light Distribution: Roof lanterns, with their larger surface area and elevated design, tend to distribute light more evenly across a room. This is particularly beneficial for larger spaces where consistent lighting is desired.
• Visual Impact: The architectural design of roof lanterns adds a touch of elegance and grandeur, making them a focal point in the room.
• Best For: Orangeries, large kitchens, and open-plan living areas where both light and aesthetics are a priority.

Skylights:

• Light Intensity: Skylights provide direct overhead light, which can be very bright and focused. This is ideal for smaller areas or where targeted lighting is required.
• Flexibility: Skylights come in various sizes and can be strategically placed to highlight specific areas. They are also easier to install on sloped roofs.
• Best For: Smaller kitchens, bathrooms, hallways, and rooms with sloped ceilings where maximizing every bit of light is crucial.

Kitchens: Roof Lanterns vs. Skylights

Roof Lanterns in Kitchens:

Installing a roof lantern in a kitchen can transform the space, flooding it with daylight and creating a more pleasant environment for cooking and dining. The additional height and openness can make even a compact kitchen feel spacious.

Skylights in Kitchens:

Skylights can be particularly effective in kitchens, especially above worktops or islands where focused light can enhance functionality. Operable skylights also help with ventilation, an added bonus in a cooking area.

Orangeries: Roof Lanterns vs. Skylights

Roof Lanterns in Orangeries:

Orangeries, traditionally designed to capture maximum light for growing plants, benefit greatly from roof lanterns. The expansive glass structure not only provides ample light but also maintains the classic, elegant look associated with orangeries.

Skylights in Orangeries:

While less common in traditional orangeries, skylights can still be used effectively. They offer a more modern look and can be combined with other windows to create a unique lighting scheme. Skylights are also less obtrusive and can be a subtle way to add light without overwhelming the room’s design.

Making the Right Choice

When deciding between a roof lantern and a skylight, consider the following factors:

• Room Size and Layout: Larger rooms benefit more from the expansive light distribution of roof lanterns, while smaller spaces may find skylights more practical.
• Aesthetics: If you want to make a bold architectural statement, a roof lantern is the way to go. For a sleek, modern look, skylights are ideal.
• Budget: Roof lanterns generally cost more due to their size and complexity. Skylights can be a more budget-friendly option.
• Ventilation Needs: If ventilation is a priority, operable skylights are a practical solution.

Conclusion

Both roof lanterns and skylights are excellent choices for bringing natural light into your home. Your decision should be guided by the specific needs of your space, your design preferences, and your budget. For kitchens and orangeries, both options can significantly enhance the ambiance, making these areas brighter and more enjoyable. Whether you opt for the dramatic impact of a roof lantern or the sleek functionality of skylights, you’ll be investing in a feature that adds value and beauty to your home.

 

Take a look at our roof lantern  or sky lights