Architecture
Townhouse skylights: bright without the heat
A skylight brings natural light into deep, narrow townhouses. Put it in the wrong place, though, and it turns the whole house into an oven.
Townhouses in Vietnam are usually narrow and deep, leaving the middle of the house very dark. A skylight is the simplest way to bring in light and air. But if it isn't done well, direct sun pouring down will make the house even hotter.
Place it in the middle of the house
The best spot is usually the middle of the house, close to the staircase. Light travels down along the stairs and spreads evenly to the rooms on either side.
A cover with ventilation gaps
The top of the skylight should have a glass roof or translucent panels, with ventilation gaps on all four sides to let hot air escape. Louvers can be added to soften the midday sun.
Add plants and water
A large potted plant or a small water feature at the foot of the skylight makes the air cooler and the space easier on the eyes.
