When it comes to enhancing spaces with natural light, roof lanterns are an ideal solution that adds a touch of elegance to a project. But what exactly is a roof lantern, and why are they becoming a popular choice for homeowners and businesses alike? Let’s take a closer look.

Understanding Roof Lanterns

A roof lantern is a glazed structure that allows natural light to flood into a room below, by being installed on a flat or low-pitched roof. Unlike flat rooflights, they have a pitched, eye-catching design which fits nicely with many architectural styles. Traditionally made with a combination of glass panes and a durable frame such as aluminium, roof lanterns offer a stunning focal point and improve the lighting and openness of any space.

Before planning to install a roof lantern on a flat roof extension, be sure to check planning permission and building regulations, to ensure your glass structure meets the relevant requirements.

Benefits of a Roof Lantern

1. Maximising Natural Light

Roof lanterns naturally invite daylight into a room, by opening up the ceiling space above. This is a fantastic solution for darker rooms, as this makes it a brighter, larger space that feels more inviting. The pitched design also elevates the space to allow for more light to flood in below.

2. Contemporary Aesthetic

A roof lantern installation adds a stylish feature to any home or commercial space. The design has the ability to transform rooms to a lighter, more open atmosphere. They are often used in modern architectural projects, particularly for ground floor extensions such as kitchens or living rooms. They are also a popular choice for areas where bringing the outside in is favourable, like a sunroom, pool room or conservatory space.

3. Energy Efficient

Modern roof lantern installation offers more than just visual benefits. Thanks to the advances in modern glazing technology, roof lanterns are manufactured to help regulate indoor temperatures. In turn, reducing the need for additional heating. Their durable aluminium frame has a thermally broken profile, encouraging ventilation and keeps spaces warm in winter and cool in summer. This makes them well known for their energy efficient benefits, enabling them to reduce excess heating costs.

4. Enhances Property Value

A well designed roof lantern can be a potential selling point for properties. Their aesthetic appearance and impressive performance can increase kerb appeal by transforming living spaces. Roof lanterns give the illusion of bigger, more open spaces, making a property more attractive to potential buyers. If you’re looking for a way to improve the lighting of you space, and make it more desirable, a roof lantern is sure to be a great investment.

5. Creates an Illusion of Height

The design of roof lanterns create a raised structure, adding vertical depth to a ceiling. This additional height gives the illusion of extra space, combined with flooding a room with lighting, which also makes a space appear larger. In the modern world, space is a sought-after part of living, and this is a great way to optimise your current space where possible. However, depending on your property and the height of your roof lantern, you may require planning permission before installing.

Where Are Roof Lanterns Used?

Roof lanterns are a popular choice for a variety of projects. Whether it be residential or commercial, there are many possibilities for it’s use. Let’s explore the potential places you can add a roof lantern:

• Kitchen Extensions- As roof lanterns need to be installed on flat roofs (or low pitched roofs), ground floor kitchen extensions are a common space to fit a roof lantern. By placing a roof lantern above a kitchen on existing flat roofs, it brings lots of daylight into the space, for an airy cooking and dining area. This is also good for optimising space, making it feel larger, which is perfect for entertaining guests.
• Orangeries & Conservatories- These living spaces are typically known for their bright, airy atmosphere. By adding a roof window to these spaces, you immediately enhance the natural light, while maintaining insulation.
• Commercial Spaces- Roof lanterns are also commonly seen in some commercial spaces such as restaurants, offices and retail spaces to create an open, inviting atmosphere. This is perfect for sunny spots like garden centers, restaurants and cafe’s where it can make the room seem more spacious.

For more inspiration on where a roof lantern can fit into your home, explore our gallery!

Choose the Right Roof Lantern

At Lantern Superstore, we supply high-quality roof lanterns from reputable manufacturers, ensuring both durability and stylish design. Whether you’re looking for a traditional or modern aesthetic, our vast range of design and panel options cater to various specifications. We also offer a range of sizes, suitable to replace an existing roof lantern, or for bespoke sizings. Our customisable features such as design and self cleaning glass, also means there’s something for everyone. Find out more about roof lanterns here!

If you’re considering a roof lantern, or a rooflight, for your next project, explore our online shop, where you’ll find a wide range of high-quality roof products. Each unique with their design, style, colours and glazing options, our products can cater for all architectural styles. Wondering how much do roof lanterns cost? Choose your ideal roof lantern or flat roof light, select your size, accept the quote and sit back while we deliver straight to your door! Discover more with made to measure or stock sizes!