Timber Roof Lanterns: A Design and Specification Guide

• 2 November 2026|
• News

A well-specified roof lantern can transform a flat-roofed extension, flooding a kitchen, living space or hallway with natural light while adding real character to a building. But for architects, developers and housebuilders working on new builds, conservation projects or larger extensions, getting the specification right matters just as much as the design.

This guide covers everything you need to know about timber roof lanterns, from glazing options and structural considerations to when a lantern roof is the better choice over an orangery extension.

The challenges of developing new builds in regulated areas

Building within a conservation area, or close to listed buildings, brings a specific set of challenges. Planning officers scrutinise materials, proportions and finishes closely, and this is particularly true for roofline features such as skylights, flat rooflights and roof lanterns.

Common challenges include:

• Material restrictions. UPVC is frequently rejected outright in sensitive settings, with timber or timber-aluminium composite specified instead.
• Sightline and proportion rules. Glazing bars, rafter depths and overall pyramid shape need to reflect the character of the surrounding streetscape.
• Thermal performance requirements. Even heritage-sensitive projects must meet current Building Regulations for thermal insulation and energy efficiency.
• Colour and finish approval. Planning authorities often specify approved colour palettes, which need to be matched precisely.

Getting this wrong can mean delays, resubmissions or costly remedial work. This is why architects and developers increasingly work with specialist manufacturers rather than generic aluminium roof lantern suppliers.

Lomax + Wood: expert suppliers of timber roof lanterns

Lomax + Wood has a long history in timber window and door manufacturing, with roots going back to 1994 under the Ambass-A-Door brand. Chris Wood, previously of Mumford & Wood, took full ownership in 2014 and has since broadened the product range considerably, including the introduction of triple glazing, aluminium composite options and aluminium-clad timber flush casement windows.

Our in-house design team has completed roof lantern projects in some of the UK’s most sensitive settings, including a bespoke installation for the Zetter Hotel within Clerkenwell Green Conservation Area in London. That project required close attention to proportions, finish and glazing specification, finished to a bespoke Farrow & Ball colour approved for the setting.

This experience means our expert team understands what planning departments expect, and how to specify a timber roof lantern that satisfies both aesthetic requirements and modern performance standards.

Timber roof lantern options available

Lomax + Wood offers a wide range of sizes and configurations to suit residential homes, hotels and commercial developments alike:

• Bespoke timber roof lanterns, made to order in any shape or size, including single and multi-part designs.

Roof lanterns: why choose timber?

For premium projects ranging from new builds to conservation area projects, a timber roof lantern often ticks every box that UPVC or standard aluminium roof lanterns cannot:

1. Authentic proportions. Timber allows for the slimmer sightlines and traditional detailing – perfect for flooding interiors with light and providing authenticity planning officers expect when working in conservation areas.
2. Long-term durability. Engineered timber offers excellent longevity when properly finished and maintained.
3. Flexible colour options. Any RAL or heritage paint colour can be matched, including bespoke shades.
4. Proven thermal performance. Double or triple glazing options, combined with timber’s natural thermal insulation properties, help meet Building Regulations comfortably.
5. Bespoke – curved rafters, special moulds and decoative options

Benefits of Lomax + Wood’s timber roof lanterns

• Bespoke design options tailored to exact architectural drawings
• Double or triple glazing, including self-cleaning and solar-control glass
• Improved energy bills through better thermal performance
• Ventilation options via top-hung opening casements
• Peace of mind through FSC® or PEFC certified, traceable timber
• Suitable for residential homes, hotels and commercial developments across the UK

Frequently asked questions

Are timber roof lanterns more expensive than aluminium roof lanterns?

Timber roof lanterns typically cost more upfront than standard aluminium, but offer better thermal performance and a more traditional appearance, which is often especially valued for conservation approval.

Can a timber roof lantern achieve the same weather resistance as aluminium?

Yes, when properly specified with quality glazing seals and finished correctly, timber roof lanterns offer excellent weather resistance and durability.

Do roof lanterns work on modern extensions as well as period properties?

Yes, timber roof lanterns suit both heritage and contemporary design projects, with finish and glazing specification adjusted to suit the setting.

In a nutshell:

Timber roof lanterns bring natural light into flat-roofed extensions. Lomax + Wood specifies each roof lantern to order, using FSC® or PEFC certified timber, with glazing and finish options tailored to the project.

Get in touch for bespoke timber roof lanterns

Planning a project that needs a timber roof lantern or window specification you can rely on? Contact Lomax + Wood today for a free quote or to discuss your requirements with our expert team.

Get in touch via our online contact form or call us on 01277 353857.