CLASSIC

The first structure that used skylights was the Pantheon in ancient Rome and they have continued to be used in some form since. In the 1970s, practical use started in industrial structures and then went on to homes. They have been perfected to avoid leaking. Skylights are here to stay as they bring light and air to spaces. It is a must to have them installed correctly. Linda

K. Kusmer, interior design consultant

Skylights are useful at bringing in some natural light when it’s just unavailable in a space. They have come a LONG way in regards to construction and insulation. They’ve been around quite a while, so they are classic - but the placement has to be right to really reap the benefit! Anne

Marie Boedges, Anne Marie Design Studio, LLC

We use skylights as more of a functional solution rather than a trend. Skylights are a great way to bring natural light into a windowless or dark room. My favorite places to use them are in kitchens, hallways and closets. They make spaces feel larger, while using less electricity. Most people shy away from them because of the folklore of leaking. It’s true in the past, poorly installed skylights may have leaked, but today when properly installed skylights not only can look appealing but are quite sustainable. Sun tunnels are another option for introducing natural light into your home and are less costly to install. Keep in mind that you are cutting into the roof of your home so it’s best to leave this task to a professional, but my feeling is that they are classic.

Joni Spear, Joni Spear Interior Design

Skylights are a classic means to bring natural light into a space. They transform the look and feel of a space when other means may not be available.

Jim Bulejski, Jim Bulejski Architects

I think skylights will always be here to stay. They are a good solution for interior spaces that lack natural light. Placement or shades are important to allow you to block the sun where needed. They can either be subtle to provide light or a statement feature.

Keith Gegg, Gegg Design & Cabinetry

Natural light is always a good idea and skylights are a great way to open a space from above. Skylights let natural light in, add a sense of drama and add a connection to nature. Skylights can be fixed or vented, and they make a statement in just about any space. They work well in a variety of residential spaces such as dark corners, bathroom areas, kitchens, exercise rooms or stairways. Famous skylights are located all over the world: the Pantheon in Rome, the Guggenheim Museum in New York and Le Louvre Museum in Paris. Skylights are a connection to the space above and will remain a classic design element.

Barbara Collins AKBD, Allied ASID, Barbara Collins Interior Design