If you’re choosing based only on aesthetic appearance the choice between the options above is entirely yours. However, in some situations you may be guided by lease or planning restrictions, in which case you should always refer to your local planning department for help.
Lantern roofs are often a smart choice if you’re hoping to achieve a large amount of glazing. Specifying single large glazing units can become expensive, so most skylights or flat roof windows have a limitation on their possible area – lantern roofs however can easily be specified easily up to 6m in length, due to their multiple glazing pane design.
Skylights and lantern roofs both offer excellent light ingress, but some studies have shown that lantern roofs can deliver more light due to their glazing angle, however the effects are marginal. Where lantern roofs do out-perform their rivals though is in head height – as due to their central rafter designs they’re able to beat flat roof skylights and most domed skylights for added height and drama.
The answer to which you should choose, as always, comes down to which you prefer for your home. But also consider the supplier or manufacturer, whichever you finally decide upon.
