Outside the box

The benefit of balconies around the entire apartment is not always immediately obvious in this climate. We have airconditioning on all the time, and it is too hot to sit outside during the day. But at night, there are often great breezes, usually from the west, and during the low humidity months it is delightful to sit and enjoy the bright lights, big city views.

The other very important feature that the balconies provide is the protective shade from the sun, afforded by the overhang of the one upstairs, and the sense of security to anyone who suffers from vertigo. These elements seem to be missing from newer buildings being constructed, which have floor to ceiling glass, and no sun visor and a sheer drop, which makes for very hot rooms, or even higher electricity bills, and a certain amount of trepidation, even to someone who is unaffected by the phobia of looking out over great heights.