bloomframe is a really neat window that transforms into a balcony with the touch of a button. I remember reading about it a couple years ago when it was a prototype. Now it's ready for the market and is currently available in The Netherlands. Created by Hofman Dujardin Architects this innovative product will enable city dwellers to increase their living space. Michiel Hofman, co-founder of the company, says that “The Bloomframe® balcony is playing an essential role in the positive evolution of our cities, encouraging us to re-think and improve interior space options. Bloomframe® helps us live better.” 
I can imagine designers and architects will have fun working with this. Its dimensions, colour and materials are all fully adaptable and can be custom-designed to complement the façade of new and existing buildings. 
The climate is milder there compared to Canada, so I don't know if it's applicable here yet but I could definitely use one! These balconies could also be great for little restaurants and coffee shops. I imagine it's only a matter of time before they become available in various countries. Bloomframe balconies completely change buildings and make them dynamic. Imagine an apartment or condo towers with several of these balconies all around it. They will never look the same. The buildings will constantly change shape. There's something very artistic about this. For some reason it also reminds me of the shape shifting building from Dynamic Architecture. Could this be the future of architecture?
photos : notcot, Hofman Dujardin Architects
The window balcony is neat. I am dubious about having a glass floor though - it doesn't seem practical enough. It isn't clear to me what happens to the side panels of the balcony.
ReplyDeleteVelux has a very similar product for sale in Canada today, and has had it for several years. The sloped skylight is hinged at the bottom. The top opens outward to form the vertical balcony face. Because a roof is sloped, the balcony effect is achieved while standing with feet on the indoor floor while the head and shoulders are outside with a good view due to the sloped roof. I recall in paris and the netherlands often seeing people with their whole head and shoulders stuck up through mansard roof skylights, usually having a smoke.
-Eric Darwin, WestSideAction.blogspot.com