Why the Open Roof Became a Design Icon in 2020
Introduction
In a year like no other, 2020 reshaped how we live — and more importantly, how we experience our homes. With people spending more time indoors than ever before, the open roof emerged as a surprisingly powerful design feature. More than just an architectural element, it became a much-needed connection to the outside world: fresh air, natural light, and a renewed sense of freedom.
A Shift in the Way We Build
The open roof wasn’t a new concept, but in 2020, it gained new meaning. It became a symbol of comfort, flexibility, and human connection. People started to appreciate how something as simple as removing the ceiling could transform a space.
The idea wasn’t about just opening up the top — it was about rethinking the boundaries of the home. Small spaces suddenly felt larger, more breathable, and more alive.
How 2020 Changed Our Relationship with Space
As remote work and lockdowns became the norm, so did the need for natural, soothing environments. Open roofs offered more than ventilation; they created emotional relief. The line between indoors and outdoors started to blur, and homes began to feel less like boxes and more like breathing spaces.
Key benefits that came with open-roof designs:
- Rooftops became places to relax, work, or even grow plants.
- Natural airflow reduced dependence on artificial cooling.
- Direct exposure to sky and light improved mental wellbeing.
What the Numbers Say
Open spaces had a tangible impact on how people felt. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Design Feature | % of Users Who Felt Improved Comfort |
|---|---|
| Living room with open roof | 78% |
| Open balcony | 65% |
| Floor-to-ceiling windows | 72% |
| Fully enclosed rooms | Only 22% |
Simplicity and Light: A Design Recipe That Caught On
Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest helped spread the appeal. Just one photo of a minimal, light-filled space could spark hundreds of new ideas. The open-roof concept turned from a design trend into a lifestyle preference — calm, airy, and deeply human.
Post-2020: A Fading Trend or a New Standard?
While the popularity may have surged due to a global crisis, the open-roof idea has staying power. It’s aligned with sustainable design values — reducing energy use, enhancing passive ventilation, and reconnecting architecture with nature.
✦ ArchUp Editorial Insight
This article examines the architectural rise of the open roof during 2020, highlighting its spatial transformation from a design detail to a functional lifestyle element. The images portray fluid indoor-outdoor transitions, where wood, glass, and light merge to create breathable, emotionally responsive spaces. Yet, while the visual concept promotes well-being, the article overlooks the long-term adaptability of such features in dense urban settings. How might these open formats function in climates of extreme heat or pollution? Still, the piece succeeds in capturing a pandemic-era design shift that sparked global rethinking of spatial openness and sustainable home comfort.
Explore the Latest Architecture Exhibitions & Conferences
ArchUp offers daily updates on top global architectural exhibitions, design conferences, and professional art and design forums.
Follow key architecture competitions, check official results, and stay informed through the latest architectural news worldwide.
ArchUp is your encyclopedic hub for discovering events and design-driven opportunities across the globe.
