Winter gardens are the hot trend for London's new homes: covered sky-high balconies offer valuable year-round living spaces

Winter gardens are the fashionable accessory as architects create versatile indoor-outdoor spaces for year-round use.

At Aldgate Place bordering the Square Mile, high-rise flats have covered balconies with an upper section of glass that can be folded back during the summer months, or kept closed on rainy or windy days. Prices from £775,500. Call Barratt on 0844 358 3270.

Wardian London, two linked towers close to Canary Wharf, has apartments with private “sky gardens” as the terminology goes. These big outdoor spaces of up to 400sq ft are enclosed at each end and set back for wind protection, allowing year-round use. Prices from £577,500.

Buyers can also pay for bespoke design packages provided by Ballymore, the developer. This includes a personalised design, limestone paving, stepping stones, bronze-coated metal planters, all-weather furniture and a range of striking ferns and succulents. Call 0800 404 8855.