Natural light has the power to transform the ambience of any space, making it more inviting, vibrant, and refreshing. Skylight and lantern windows are architectural features that harness the beauty and benefits of daylighting. In this article, we will explore the advantages and drawbacks of skylights and lantern windows, as well as delve into the best window dressings that complement these unique designs.
Skylight windows and roof lantern windows are both architectural features that bring natural light into a space from above through a glass expanse but they have distinct differences in terms of design, placement, and functionality.
Here are the key differences between skylight windows and roof lantern windows:
• Skylight: A skylight is usually a flat or window installed directly into the roof, generally flush with the roofline. Skylights are often rectangular or square but can be available in various shapes and can even be vented or fixed, depending on the model.
• Roof Lantern: A roof lantern is a three-dimensional, raised glass structure that sits on top of a flat roof, typically in a pitched, pyramid, or rectangular shape. It has a more prominent, architectural design, almost resembling a miniature glass conservatory on the roof. Roof lanterns have multiple panes and frames that create a unique, striking look.
Skylights and roof lanterns provide natural light in areas where it may otherwise be reduced, illuminating the interior spaces and reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day, which can help reduce energy consumption and reduce electricity bills.
As lantern windows are positioned higher than traditional windows, they capture more light, spreading it evenly throughout the room and they can create an illusion of higher ceilings, making spaces feel more spacious and grand.
Unlike conventional windows, both window types provide privacy as they are positioned on the roof, ceiling or upper walls, away from the line of sight of passersby.
Improperly installed or poorly insulated skylights may lead to excessive heat gain during summers and heat loss during winters, potentially impacting energy efficiency.
Direct sunlight can create glare and cause fading of furniture, flooring, and artwork if adequate shading is not provided. They can be difficult to clean, maintain and dress, especially when located in hard-to-reach areas.
Choosing the right window dressings for skylight and lantern windows is crucial for light control, dealing with glare and allowing easy operation, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
Because both types of window capture a lot of light, you need a blind that can deal with the challenges that can bring, turning them into solutions. Duette® blinds with their cellular shape trap warm air in the honeycomb-shaped pocket of the design, so they’re a great year-round choice.
You could choose specialist Pleated blinds with a coating that can repel or absorb the rays of the sun, making them highly adept at preventing any UV damage. This is ideal if your skylight window is next to a desk or precious furniture, and for roof lanterns situated above dining room tables etc.
If your skylight is in a bedroom loft extension, then you’ll probably want to consider a blind that offers some level of blackout. Blackout Roller blinds are an option, as are Dim Out Duette® blinds although neither will be a total blackout solution, as you’ll have some level of light seepage at the sides. Dim Out fabrics store internal and external heat so on really hot days you need to open the window to prevent the glass from getting excessively hot. All these options are available in a multitude of colours to match your décor, ensuring that your window dressings are as stylish as they are practical.
One popular option is motorised Duette® blinds, which are perfect for those hard-to-reach roof lantern windows. They offer seamless operation with the touch of a button, allowing you to control the amount of light entering your room without needing to climb up and manually adjust the blinds. You can also opt to go smart with these blinds. With the help of a smart hub, instead of just using a remote control, you can operate them with an app on your phone or tablet.
Skylight and lantern windows bring the beauty of natural light into our living and working spaces, transforming them into inviting and uplifting environments. While they offer numerous benefits, such as increased natural illumination and improved mood, it is essential to consider their drawbacks, including heat gain, glare, and maintenance requirements. By choosing the right roof lantern blind or skylight blinds, such as Roller blinds, electric blinds, cellular shades, or sheer curtains, you can enhance the functionality and aesthetics of these unique window designs, striking the perfect balance between light control, privacy, and style. So, let the sunshine in and embrace the transformative power of skylight and lantern windows to create bright and cheerful spaces that truly inspire.
