Mon 20 Apr 2009
Each Monday on the DesignQuotient™ blog, Beverly Hills Interior Designer DesignCoach™ James Swan answers readers’ questions. Post your design dilemma. DesignCoach™ can help you find the solution.
This week the DesignCoach discusses skylights.
Q. What are your thoughts on skylights? Set aside the usual concerns over installation and construction, we have a very good contractor. However, some have raised other issues about temperature, letting in too much of the outdoors, etc. I was thinking that since we’re on the East Coast it would be a great way to get more light into the house — yes, year-round. Some winters, like this year, make you feel like you might contract scurvy from the lack of sun and warmth. I saw some that have the blinds built into the windows between the panes of glass. You operate the opening and closing via a wireless switch. I think I’m right, what am I missing?
A. Skylights can be wonderful additions to the home. If the issues of installation are easily addressed (a good contractor is worth their weight in gold!) then the only question remaining is the amount of heat and light these graceful “holes” provide. I am always a bit cautious about skylights on west facing roofs. They can be heaven in the winter — but can be hell in the summer. Look carefully at how the placement of a skylight will interact with the movement of the sun in your sky. Log onto www.GoogleEarth.com where you can track the sun over your home. This can be helpful in making a final decision. You are also correct that there are windows that offer integrated shades. One can also install fabric or woven wood shades inside the frame of a skylight which accomplishes the same end result but can add to the overall beauty of a room in a way that the integrated product doesn’t. When function and beauty are both addressed the results can be very rewarding. Enjoy.
Photo: Want more natural light in your home? Skylights might be just the right solution for you. The skylights shown above use electronically controlled shades to adjust light levels and provide insulation when needed.
Let us know if we can help with your design dilemma. Send us your questions.
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