Choosing Between Roof Lanterns and Skylights: Style, Size, and Function Explained
When it comes to enhancing the natural light in your home, roof lanterns and skylights are two of the most popular choices. Both can transform a living space, bring the outdoors in, and add value to your property. However, they each serve slightly different purposes and offer unique aesthetic and functional benefits. At Dunraven, we offer a range of both roof lanterns and skylights to suit every home, style, and budget. In this guide, we’ll explore what each option is, how they differ, and how to choose the right solution for your project.
What Is a Roof Lantern?
A roof lantern is a glazed structure installed on top of a flat or slightly pitched roof. Typically made with aluminium or uPVC frames and energy-efficient glass panels, roof lanterns are designed to maximise natural light in larger spaces such as open-plan kitchens, dining rooms, or conservatories. Unlike standard windows, roof lanterns often have multiple panes of glass arranged in a decorative frame, creating a striking visual feature from both the inside and the outside of your home.
Key benefits of roof lanterns include:
- Maximised daylight: The multi-panel design allows light to spread evenly across a room.
- Architectural appeal: Roof lanterns add a sense of height, space, and elegance.
- Customisable sizes and shapes: Available in square, rectangular, or even bespoke designs to suit your property.
Roof lanterns are ideal for homeowners looking for a statement feature while simultaneously increasing the natural light in large, central areas of their home.
What Is a Skylight?
A flat skylight is a window installed directly into a sloped roof. Unlike roof lanterns, skylights are usually a single pane of glass or a simple double-glazed unit, designed to allow natural light to enter smaller spaces such as bedrooms, bathrooms, or hallways. Skylights can be fixed or operable, with the latter offering ventilation and helping regulate indoor temperatures.
Key benefits of skylights include:
- Space efficiency: Perfect for rooms where installing a larger roof lantern may not be practical.
- Energy efficiency: Modern skylights are designed to reduce heat loss while letting in maximum daylight.
- Versatility: Available in a range of styles, from flat, tubular designs to larger, more dramatic versions for pitched roofs.
Skylights are often chosen for areas where functionality and simplicity are the priority, though they can also enhance a room’s visual appeal by creating an airy, open feeling.
Roof Lanterns vs Skylights: Key Differences
While both roof lanterns and skylights bring daylight into a home, there are several key differences to consider when deciding which option is right for you:
Design Impact
- Roof Lantern: Statement feature, decorative and grand
- Skylight: Sleek, minimalistic, unobtrusive
Installation Area
- Roof Lantern: Large open-plan rooms, conservatories
- Skylight: Smaller rooms or areas with limited roof space
Natural Light Spread
- Roof Lantern: Wide, evenly distributed
- Skylight: Focused, directional light
Ventilation Options
- Roof Lantern: Often fixed, some operable designs
- Skylight: Fixed or operable for airflow
Customisation
- Roof Lantern: High – bespoke shapes, sizes, colours
- Skylight: Moderate – standard or custom sizes
Both options are available in energy-efficient glass, high-quality frames, and a variety of finishes to complement your home. The choice often comes down to the size of your space, the style you prefer, and the functional requirements of the room.
Choosing the Right Option for Your Home
When deciding between a roof lantern and a skylight, it’s important to consider:
- Room size and function: Large central spaces benefit from roof lanterns, while smaller rooms or secondary spaces may be better suited to skylights.
- Design preference: Do you want a bold architectural feature or a subtle, functional addition?
- Ventilation needs: If airflow is important, operable skylights may be a better fit.
- Budget considerations: Roof lanterns tend to involve more complex installation and higher upfront costs, whereas skylights can often be a simpler, more economical solution.
At Dunraven, we work with homeowners to ensure the right solution is chosen for every project. Our team can provide guidance on style, size, and placement, ensuring maximum light, efficiency, and aesthetic appeal.
Conclusion
Both roof lanterns and skylights offer unique ways to enhance your home with natural light, improve energy efficiency, and add value. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, and the best choice depends on your space, style preferences, and functional requirements. Whether you’re looking for a striking, architectural feature or a sleek, practical solution, Dunraven provides expertly designed roof lanterns and skylights to meet every need. Get in touch with our expert team today to discuss your needs.
