Autor: Shadowxl
This single-family home with a garden conceals at the rear a solution that immediately draws attention: a glass terrace roof with a bespoke, non-standard shape.
Instead of a typical rectangular form, the design features chamfered edges that create a polygon aligned with the balcony line. The structure of the glass terrace enclosure adopts a polygonal shape, with straight walls meeting at various angles. This allows the panoramic glazing to open up views of the garden in multiple directions.
The polygonal glass bay adjoins directly to the red brick walls of the house, creating a striking contrast between traditional material and modern technology. This combination goes beyond aesthetics — it reflects a design philosophy where heritage meets innovation.
The structure is composed of slim, anthracite aluminium profiles, colour-coordinated with the roof and balustrades. The glass roof panels, supported by evenly spaced beams running perpendicular to the wall, maximise daylight while visually organising the ceiling. Particularly noteworthy is the seamless integration with the building structure: the beams are precisely fixed beneath the balcony, and the wall junction detailing is tight and carefully executed. A key advantage of the ShadowXL solution is the elimination of excessive structural supports. In addition, the drainage system is fully integrated within the frame, effectively preventing rainwater accumulation without introducing visually intrusive elements at the front.
The vertical glazing is designed as a frameless sliding system. The glass panels meet edge-to-edge, creating the impression of a single continuous surface and ensuring uninterrupted contact with the garden. The panels can be fully opened across the entire width, transforming the winter garden into a light and airy summer terrace. The lower track is flush with the paved floor, allowing for easy movement.
The interior of the winter garden has been designed with multiple usage scenarios in mind. In the brightest area, a round table with six woven chairs forms the natural centre of the dining zone. Adjacent to this is a lounge area with a sofa and a hanging chair — ideal for enjoying a coffee, reading, or simply taking in the garden view. On the opposite side, a relaxation zone with a jacuzzi has been arranged; a nearby exercise bike demonstrates that the space can also function as an area for physical activity.
The polygonal layout allows these functions to be intuitively separated without the need for additional partitions. Discreet spot lighting integrated into the roof beams creates a pleasant atmosphere after dark, eliminating the need for additional freestanding lighting.
From an aesthetic perspective, the entire design aligns with modern minimalism: anthracite profiles and clean glass surfaces create a cohesive material language, while the use of the same paving material both inside and outside ensures a seamless transition between the home and the garden. Even on overcast days, the glass ceiling provides exceptional brightness. A row of tall thuja trees beyond the glazing forms a green backdrop, acting as a natural screen — an added advantage when the glass walls are opened on warmer days.
The transparent walls and glass roof flood the interior with natural daylight, enhancing the sense of continuity between the house and the garden. From the outside, this bespoke terrace enclosure harmonises with the brick façade and carefully designed greenery — paved pathways guide the eye along the polygonal form, while hedges and planting create a refined setting for the glass architecture. The final result is a luxurious and harmonious space that combines contemporary detailing with a natural environment.
The uniqueness of this project lies in several key elements: a polygonal plan tailored to the bay rather than a standard rectangle; a frameless sliding glass wall system with a flush threshold; and precise integration with the balcony and building structure without excessive supports. The result is a panoramic winter garden of an unusual shape, which protects against rain and wind during colder days, and transforms into a light, open terrace during warmer seasons — thoughtfully designed both aesthetically and technically down to the smallest detail.
See also:
Modern terrace enclosure with a flat roof QubeXL – a private wellness and leisure zone