Issue 46 April 25 web - Flipbook - Page 42
The Timeless Elegance
and Practicality of
Octagon Rooflights
Few architectural features offer the elegance and versatility of the octagonal rooflight. Found in both
heritage and contemporary buildings, octagonal and polysided rooflights enhance interior spaces with
their striking geometry while also providing practical benefits. They serve as both a source of natural
light and an architectural focal point, adding grandeur to any room beneath and seamlessly integrating
with the surrounding design.
Rooted in architectural tradition, octagonal rooflights
have been used for centuries to elevate spaces with
abundant natural light. Their symmetrical geometry lends
an air of classical sophistication, and their multiple facets
create dynamic light patterns that change with the
shifting angles of the sun. This interplay of light transforms
a space, making the rooflight as much a feature of the
interior as the exterior, while connecting the inside with
the outdoors.
A Historical Perspective on Lantern and Octagon
Rooflights
The use of roof lanterns, including octagonal designs, has
a long history in British architecture. Emerging in the 18th
and 19th centuries, roof lanterns were initially introduced
to bring daylight into dark, interior spaces like atriums,
stairwells, and galleries. These lanterns allowed for
panoramic views of the sky while maximising natural
light. Over time, creative influences led to the development of various shapes, culminating in the distinctive
octagonal rooflight.
Below, Octagon Rooflight by The Rooflight Co.
In many heritage properties, roof lanterns have been
central to the experience of the spaces beneath. Their position, often at the centre of a room, served both practical
and aesthetic purposes by illuminating spaces that might
otherwise rely heavily on artificial lighting. Today, many
historic buildings, including country estates and townhouses, still feature these iconic roof lanterns. The octagonal shape, with its distinctive facets and symmetry, was
especially popular in grand, high-ceilinged rooms such as
entrance halls and galleries.
Even now, octagonal rooflights continue to be a prevalent
choice in the conservation of historic properties, respecting the original architectural vision while offering a perfect
blend of form and function.
The Architectural and Spatial Benefits
The key benefit of an octagonal rooflight is its ability to
distribute light evenly throughout a room. The geometry
