a direct living terrace at penthouse level sounds better than it measures. four feet wide means you're standing, not sitting, with city views over your shoulder and neighbors nowhere in sight. the western light is real, the privacy is genuine, the potential is theoretical. bring a planter and low expectations.

in terms of layout, this terrace is excellent, but as a raw space, it is void of personality and work will need to be put in to make it shine.

the views from this low-key, low-floor terrace are of old soho, the way it was years ago, not of the open air mall it has become.

five feet of width puts this squarely in bistro territory, which is exactly how it's been staged. a direct living terrace with empire state views and mature brick character, perfect for morning coffee or evening drinks for two. dinner party venue it is not, but the skyline does the heavy lifting.

this living level terrace might not have a view in a traditional sense, but peeking up an alley with fire escapes has its own new york charm

this terrace has the unique combination of views of the skyline of the entire city, and practicality. most terraces with panoramic views are too elevated to be practical, this one is not.

views are stunning from this terrace, the unknown is how the division with your neighboring terrace is handled.

a 700-square-foot footprint is deceptive when a four-foot width kills all furniture potential. reclaiming the space by removing the solarium is the only "outdoor lover's" move here. it’s the difference between a claustrophobic glass box and a legitimate living level terrace with actual room to breathe.

four hundred square feet of courtyard tucked behind a townhouse, with actual room for a proper dinner party. the brick walls and neighboring windows mean you're not exactly alone out here, but the enclosure creates a sheltered, private feel that upper terraces rarely manage. potted palms are doing the heavy lifting on atmosphere. a direct living setup that earns the name.

two terraces at perfect locations, the largest of the two being a direct living terrace, offering easy access when having a gathering, while the living level terrace is smaller and only accessible from the master, making it a perfect more private retreat.

the standout feature of this small but pleasant terrace is the ambiance that is created by the architectural characteristics of the building. from to color of the stonework to the heft of the posts, it all adds to the charm

three excellent outdoor spaces, the balcony off the living room is wide enough to hold a love seat or some angled loungers, and the direct roof it they place to dine with friends