Clever skylight window turns your roof into a balcony

To the outside world this window may look just like a regular window, but it's a perfect example of clever, multi-functional design.

Why just have a window, when you could have a window that turns into a mini balcony?

The Cabrio Balcony designed by Danish window company Velux is a roof window or skylight that transforms into a balcony in literal seconds, and the video demonstrating that fact (above) has gone viral.

Image: Velux

The Danes are known for clever design and engineering, so it's no surprise that you can choose whether to operate the Cabrio as a traditional window, or expand it outwards - complete with railings - to allow more air and light into your attic space.

"The video perfectly demonstrates the benefits; you’re able to open the Cabrio balcony window up and essentially go outdoors. Whether you have city views or a picturesque landscape outside, it's the perfect way to incorporate a balcony into an attic or loft without major construction involved," says Stephen Parry of Velux Australia.

Featuring natural pine with a clear lacquer finish, there is a clear coating on the outer panes to keep windows cleaner for longer.

That's not all: the top pane can rotate 180 degrees and lock into place, so you can easily clean it. Genius.