Wall Paper Windows at Q Club in Isla Verde- one of the few typologies expected to have windowless comfort.
Why have operable windows if you could have floor to ceiling glass panels that protect you from the heat, smell, and noise of the city? A new concerning trend – windowless comfort – is becoming popular in many tropical countries. People are not only now willing to live windowless, but this typology of city living is being seen as one of the most exclusive ways to dwell in the urban (and not so urban) parts of San Juan.
Why should this raise concern? In cities such as Toronto for example, this trend is somewhat adequate since the operable windows are closed most of the year due to the cold climate or half open during warmer months.
My room in Toronto. Average Outside Temperature in the Winter: 30 F
In Puerto Rico on the other hand, this imported trend is concerning since these glass panels usually have minimal or no existing shading systems and it converts interior spaces into what is commonly called “heated fishbowls”. In tropical climates, this type of buildings is not only eco-scary, but also uncomfortable if you choose not to turn on the air conditioner for as little as 30 minutes.
Apartment for Sale in Miramar with no operable windows in the living room, except for a sliding door to access the balcony.
When I visited this project featured above – the sales manager told me they chose to have minimal amount of windows since the space was built for air conditioning. She said the main reason for this was the heat (of course!), and the noise of the avenues surrounding the building. Then, when I asked for the average maintenance costs of these units, including the keeping of air conditioned common spaces 24/7, she said…well, the estimate is about $2,000 a month per apartment.
Now, that made me sweat, even when it was a comfortable 70 degrees inside that sunny apartment.
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