A bit of history; the glass roof through time

For centuries, indoor skylights have made their mark on the world of architecture and design, creating spaces that are both functional and aesthetically captivating. The history of these architectural elements dates back to ancient times, when Romans and Egyptians already used glass to create translucent openings in their buildings, allowing natural light to enter their interiors.

It was during the medieval period, in Europe, that indoor skylights took on a new dimension. Gothic glass masters perfected the art of creating stained glass windows for churches and cathedrals. These colorful stained-glass windows, often used to illustrate biblical scenes, were true luminous works of art, using daylight to project a vibrant color palette into sacred spaces.

Over time, this artistic approach to glass has evolved to suit different architectural styles. The Renaissance era saw the introduction of more elegant skylights in royal homes and noble residences. The use of lead to divide glass into panels made it possible to create more complex compositions, with floral and geometric patterns. The windows thus became elements of ornamentation and distinction in interiors.

The 19th century brought the rise of industrial architecture and the Art Nouveau movement, highlighting the connection between art and nature. Skylights, which are more similar to what we know today, have been integrated into public spaces such as train stations and department stores.

Today, indoor skylights remain prized for their distinctive architectural character. They embody a symbiosis between functionality, allowing light to circulate while offering delimited vocations in space. Their use extends beyond traditional homes, integrating workspaces, industrial lofts, trendy cafes, and contemporary hotels.

What makes indoor skylights so coveted is their ability to blend harmoniously with various types of architecture. Their adaptability comes from their versatile nature: they can blend discreetly into a minimalist decor using clean lines and contemporary materials, or they can add a touch of character to an industrial environment by combining popular materials such as metal and glass.

Indoor skylights continue to fascinate with their rich history and their ability to transcend eras and architectural styles. By blending light, art, and function, they evoke the essence of architecture, connecting the past to the present while offering a brilliant glimpse into the future.

October 4 2023