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Unique design turns apartment window into a balcony

Mock-up of how the MoreSky window would work. (Aldana Ferrer Garcia)
Mock-up of how the MoreSky window would work. (Aldana Ferrer Garcia)

As ever-growing cities are becoming more densely populated, condo living has become the reality for many individuals and families alike. And while the lifestyle comes jam-packed with a variety of benefits, the lack of access to the outside world is often considered a major downside. But what if there was a transitional contraption that allowed a better connection between the indoors and outdoors?

Enter MoreSky. The combination window-balcony system, created by Brooklyn-based architect Aldana Ferrer Garcia, would allow those in small living spaces to gain additional area outside the apartment with a pop-up style mini balcony. The unique invention was designed with densely populated cities in mind – a way to connect with the outside elements through added natural light, more fresh air and a clear view of the sky above.

Cleverly designed as a retrofit project, the MoreSky hardware could be added to existing windows. Garcia even conceptualized MoreSky enclosures for three different types of windows: hopper, casement and awning.

It’s a seemingly simple and fairly practical idea, yet revolutionary at the same time. But don’t be misled by the term “balcony” – you won’t be setting up a barbeque or outdoor lounge chair with this invention. Think of it more as a cozy sitting nook or sunroom for one. That being said, it’s hard to imagine feeling “cozy” while floating on glass outside the walls of a high-rise condo unit on the 24th floor. (Unless the unnerving glass floor of Toronto’s CN Tower is the vibe you’re going for, of course.)

Feeling relaxed yet? (Flickr/Paul Williams)
Feeling relaxed yet? (Flickr/Paul Williams)

The idea was first exhibited and presented this past spring at the Brooklyn Fashion + Design Accelerator (BF+DA), a new initiative under the Pratt Institute in New York City. The BF+DA provides designers with the resources they need to successfully transform their ideas into businesses. Garcia was one of 22 up-and-coming Masters of Industrial Design (M.I.D.) degree candidates who presented at this year’s show, Fake ID, and went on to graduate from the Pratt Institute in May. To say there was buzz surrounding MoreSky would be an understatement.

While MoreSky isn’t in the market just yet, Garcia is actively seeking partners and investors in engineering, manufacturing and distribution. In other words, there’s no telling if we’ll be seeing MoreSky window systems for sale any time soon.

Looks like condo and apartment dwellers will have to wait for their unconventional room with a view a bit longer.