sky high

Harnessing natural light is a goal for every home and the sophisticated skylights seen today are using modern tech and design to ace that objective

- Keith Flanagan

Ask any architect to describe their core objectives on a recent project, and one item almost guaranteed to make the cut is bringing in more natural light. And while there are many ways to harness the sun, many homeowners are turning their sights towards the ceiling with statement skylights - or even clerestory windows that channel light from above.

Compared to conventional windows, skylights can filter light into the home from new directions while creating a unique sense of openness throughout interiors, even increasing the amount of natural light your home receives throughout the day.

'As so much housing stock consists of terraced or semi-detached houses, relying solely on light from the front or rear elevation is not sufficient to achieve bright inviting spaces, therefore skylights are often the only option to improve levels of natural lighting,' explains Ester Corti, co-founder and director at London's Mitchell + Corti Architects.

Skylights are not new (you've heard of the Pantheon), but the skylights we see today are unlike those from decades ago. Updated technology (like built in shades) and sheer availability (like better readymade products) are just a handful of developments giving them rise.

'Skylight systems have become more affordable, and there are many companies offering off-the-shelf solutions with integrated blinds, electrical openings, rain sensors, and so on,' adds Ester. 'As building technology has advanced there's less fear that skylights will leak, which perhaps has also increased popularity.'