The skylight effect: Is it worth having in your home?

 As Perth home builders, one of the most common questions we’re asked during the design phase is: “Are skylights worth the extra cost?”

And to put it simply, yes. Every single time.

We’ve built hundreds of homes across Perth and Western Australia, and not one client has ever regretted the decision to add skylights to their home. In fact, most say it’s one of their favourite features.

Pictured above: Before & After skylight installation for a custom home build in Warwick, Western Australia.

What makes skylights so valuable?

1. Natural light, where you need it most

Skylights are a great way to bring daylight into spaces that typically don’t receive much — think kitchens, bathrooms, hallways, or internal rooms. They make rooms feel larger, brighter, and more open.

2. Improved ventilation

Ventilated skylights (like those from Velux) can help release hot air and reduce the need for air conditioning. They’re especially useful in kitchens or bathrooms where moisture and heat build up.

3. Energy efficiency

By increasing natural light, skylights reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day — which can help cut down on energy usage and bills.

4. A wow factor

Whether it's a modern design feature above your kitchen island or a soft natural glow in your ensuite, skylights add a premium touch that elevates your interiors. It's guaranteed to always offer a talking point when a visitor comes to your home!

Worried about the additional costs, though?

Skylights don’t always have to be a major investment. There are a few smart ways to get the benefits without blowing the budget:

• Keep it simple. Choose an area with easy roof access to avoid structural changes. A hallway, laundry or flat roof section is a great place to start. Just ask us early in the process of your build and we can help guide you.

• Opt for fixed skylights. If ventilation isn’t essential, fixed models are more affordable than vented ones.

• Select a standard size. Custom skylights often come with a higher price tag. Off-the-shelf sizes can be just as effective and more cost-efficient. This is another area that we can help guide you when weighing up your options.

• Plan early. Adding skylights during the design or build stage avoids the expense and complexity of retrofitting later. It's beneficial to decide early on so that we can plan accordingly for your build.

• Be Strategic. If keeping costs down is a priority, it’s easy to get tempted by the idea of skylights in every room (we know the feels!) but one well-placed skylight can have just as much impact. Focus on the areas where you’ll get the most value. Think about the kitchen if It's going to be the heart of your home… where natural light can enhance the space for cooking, entertaining, and gathering. Or your ensuite or bathroom, where soft daylight can elevate your morning and evening rituals, making those everyday moments feel calm and little more luxurious.

Our final piece of advice?

Skylights may come at an additional cost, but they add far more value in the long run. In comfort, aesthetics, and long-term liveability. If you’re on the fence, we’ll help you design a solution that works for your layout and budget.

We’ve never had a client say they wished they didn’t add one.

Get in contact with us today to discuss your home building journey.