Glass Backyard Extension and Privacy

Does anyone have experience building a glass extension off the ground floor of a townhouse? Originally, we hoped to build a 10′ extension of the ground floor of our Clinton Hill townhouse. But DOB will only permit us to extend 6′. We learned that we can get the full 10′ extension if the remaining 4′ are glass – all walls and ceiling. We’re considering this option, but are concerned about privacy and the greenhouse effect (since it’s a south-facing wall). One of the rooms in the back will be a bathroom, the other room is a bedroom. I’d love suggestions about privacy/thermal glass options (no, not the one-way mirrored kind). It seems in this era there must be some high tech glass that allows us to see out, but won’t let anyone in the backyard see in. Am I dreaming? We’re also considering covering the outer bathroom wall and roof with wood slat cladding. Would this pass DOB inspection? Thank you for your suggestions and advice!

slavan1320

in General Discussion 8 years ago

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mw40784 | 8 years ago

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There are optional coatings for glass that can provide privacy from the exterior and help to reduce solar gain. I personally haven’t used them before, but it could be a nice solution for your project. Here’s one manufacturer:

http://glassed.vitroglazings.com/glasstopics/reflective_glass.aspx

Budget permitting, there are also walkable skylights that could be used for the roof/ceiling. This could allow for a terrace on top.

Wood veneers are allowed in certain circumstances, but your best bet is a product like Hardiplank Lap Siding.

I am very curious to the explanation of the 6’ foot extension + 4’ of glass. Are you encroaching on the rear yard setback? Does the glassed-in area count as habitable space?

Andy Urbany, RA
Dixon Projects

mw40784 | 8 years ago

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There are optional coatings for glass that can provide privacy from the exterior and help to reduce solar gain. I personally haven’t used them before, but it could be a nice solution for your project. Here’s one manufacturer:

http://glassed.vitroglazings.com/glasstopics/reflective_glass.aspx

Budget permitting, there are also walkable skylights that could be used for the roof/ceiling. This could allow for a terrace on top.

Wood veneers are allowed in certain circumstances, but your best bet is a product like Hardiplank Lap Siding.

I am very curious to the explanation of the 6’ foot extension + 4’ of glass. Are you encroaching on the rear yard setback? Does the glassed-in area count as habitable space?

Andy Urbany, RA
Dixon Projects

mw40784 | 8 years ago

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There are optional coatings for glass that can provide privacy from the exterior and help to reduce solar gain. I personally haven’t used them before, but it could be a nice solution for your project. Here’s one manufacturer:

http://glassed.vitroglazings.com/glasstopics/reflective_glass.aspx

Budget permitting, there are also walkable skylights that could be used for the roof/ceiling. This could allow for a terrace on top.

Wood veneers are allowed in certain circumstances, but your best bet is a product like Hardiplank Lap Siding.

I am very curious to the explanation of the 6’ foot extension + 4’ of glass. Are you encroaching on the rear yard setback? Does the glassed-in area count as habitable space?

Andy Urbany, RA
Dixon Projects

CarmenR | 8 years ago

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This is going to cost you a fortune, and is going to be a huge pain in the neck to keep warm and cool, even if you have great windows. We have really good windows and a TON of insulation, and our south-facing bedroom (which has 5 large windows because it’s kind of an odd shape) gets VERY warm even with blinds. I cannot imagine having an entire room made of windows. I think you should bite the bullet and just go with a 6ft extension.

eileengray | 8 years ago

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It’s best to consult an architect for zoning and building code and energy code issues as well for technical assistance such as glazing (there is glass that can be obscured) and heating & cooling such a unique space.