A glass-enclosed space from which to enjoy the sun, moon and sky—no matter the time of year or weather

When it comes to New York City apartment amenities, outdoor space—think balcony, terrace, backyard—ranks pretty highly. That said, it comes at a pretty big cost, especially considering that these spaces can only be enjoyed in the warmer months and when the weather is good. Solariums, like those shown here, offer the best of both worlds: access to the great outdoors and shelter from the elements—all year round!

The glass-enclosed solarium atop top this tri-level penthouse at 52 East End Avenue (on the market for $3.5 million) has soaring ceilings, sliding doors, and easy access to the generously sized roof deck beyond.

The sunroom of this triplex penthouse at 126 North Street in Williamsburg (for rent at $8,500/month) effectively extends the living/dining room into an even larger common space overlooking the patio garden.

Cook under the sun or stars from the glass-ceilinged and -walled kitchen of this 1,500-square-foot, two-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath penthouse at 12 West 68^th Street (renting at $8,500/month).

Connecting the living/dining room and the garden of this three-bedroom duplex at 116 West 76^th Street (listed at $3.350 million) is an 8-by-13-foot solarium that can be used as an office, a den…or even a nursery.

The top floor of this Upper West Side brownstone at 37 West 87^th Street (for rent at $32,000/month) features a solarium with vaulted ceilings, custom retractable shades, a wet bar, dishwasher, full bath—and easy access the home’s 300-square-foot rooftop patio.