SF Outdoor Spaces Roundup #3: Skylights

For our final installment of our outdoor spaces roundup we turn to skylights (yesterday we did sunrooms, and before that patios). Now, we know a skylight isn't technically an outdoor space, but it's a great way to get a little sun and see the sky when other outdoor options are limited.

Our favorite so far is Alison and Joel's soaring Victorian skylight, opening over their hallway and front stairwell. We'd love to camp out under that window to the sky on a bright-yet-rainy day (hmm, we Northwesters wouldn't know anything about that, now would we?).

Danielle and Josh's Cottage in the Woods

Catherine and Robin's Earthy Modern Airie

House Call: Jill Bliss

Comments (6)

word of caution watch your artwork in these areas, I destroyed two rauschenberg prints even with the UV coating-DIES.

posted by LoriSF on June 12th 2008 at 1:34pm
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I love skylights because even w/out a view you can have sun. And everything looks better in natural light-IMHO.

posted by MoJonson on June 12th 2008 at 4:04pm
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can anyone who has skylights comment on any problems they've had with them? I've heard they are notorious for leaking or requiring maintenance, and I am currently looking at an apt in BKLYN with 2 of them. thanks!

posted by amt230 on June 13th 2008 at 5:00am
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As long as the skylight is installed properly with the correct flashing protection, there shouldn't be any problems. If there is water pooling around the window, then you are at risk for leaks.

If all else fails, ask to check to roof of your building and see if there is any evidence of leaks already.

posted by revolution9 on June 13th 2008 at 5:54am
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If you can't afford a sky light, think about installing a "solatube". We have one in our hallway and during the day we get great natural daylight. At night it turns into a regular hallway light via electricity. It's about $300.00 to have it installed.

posted by Doris loves art! on June 15th 2008 at 2:58pm
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amt,

I grew up in a house with 3 skylights and we never had problems with them. I recall we lost the largest one during a tornado when I was 10 or so, which is the only one my parents ever had to replace. My parents live in Kansas, so the tornado season is always a risk, only one broken in 30 years or so though, and no leaks or anything.

posted by Kalei on June 15th 2008 at 11:21pm
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