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A Home That Has Regained Its Sense of Space: An Extension Featuring Flat Roof Windows
FAKRO flat roof windows make it possible to bring natural daylight into interiors where traditional glazing solutions are insufficient or difficult to implement. They are particularly effective in buildings located on plots with challenging conditions, where neighbouring properties limit design possibilities. One example is the extension of a detached house in Aberdeen, where the primary objective was to create a bright, spacious and open living area while maintaining the residents' privacy. In this case, flat roof windows proved to be an effective solution, providing daylight from above and helping to illuminate the interior.
When Constraints Become the Starting Point of a Design
Ian McGregor Architects specialises in residential design and home extensions. Every project begins with an assessment of the homeowners' needs and the identification of solutions that respond both to their expectations and to the opportunities and limitations of a specific site.
The main objective of the renovation of this detached house in Aberdeen was to transform the existing, poorly lit kitchen into a spacious living area filled with natural daylight. The homeowners wanted to create a comfortable space for the entire family that would offer greater freedom of use while maintaining privacy. Achieving this objective, however, was not straightforward. The house is located close to neighbouring properties, which limited the possibility of significantly increasing the amount of façade glazing.
As a result, the architects decided to demolish the existing kitchen and design a new extension in its place incorporating flat roof windows. These windows introduced natural daylight from above, effectively brightening the living space.
Natural Daylight Without Compromise
The decision to use FAKRO products was influenced by their technical performance, functionality and ease of installation. Four DEG P2 flat roof windows with double glazing were installed in the kitchen area.
These windows feature a P2 glazing unit with an internal laminated pane offering P2A safety performance. The window construction provides very good thermal insulation parameters, with a heat transfer coefficient of Uw = 0.92 W/m²K and Urc = 0.71 W/m²K for A = 4.0 m² in accordance with EN 1873:2014. These values help reduce heat loss during the winter season.
The DEG model is topped with a specially designed glazed segment consisting of an aluminium profile and a toughened glass pane. This glazed segment is factory-fitted to the window, helping to streamline installation and reduce fitting time on site.
Convenient Electric Operation
The windows used in this project are electrically operated, allowing them to be opened and closed conveniently without the need for direct access to the sash. Standard equipment for FAKRO flat roof windows also includes a power supply unit and a rain sensor, enhancing everyday convenience and helping protect the interior from unexpected rainfall.
When rain is detected, the sensor automatically sends a signal to close an open window, reducing the risk of water entering the room. This feature can be particularly useful when residents are away from home or unable to respond quickly to changing weather conditions.
A Space Tailored to the Residents' Needs
Information
Location: Aberdeen, Scotland
Architect: Ian McGregor Architects
Contractor: Eco Build Scotland
Photography: Niall Hastie Photography
