A balcony adds character, and functionality to any home. They offer a place to relax, entertain or simply enjoy the view. Choosing the right balcony can be difficult and requires careful consideration of a number of factors to ensure it meets regulations whilst also complimenting your home’s architecture. In this guide we will go through some helpful tips on how to choose the right balcony for your home.
Understanding Balcony Types
1. Juliet Balcony
A Juliet balcony is a small balcony or railing that is installed outside of a window or pair of doors. They create an elegant barrier, but do not have any external floor space. This type of balcony is ideal for homes that have limited space or for those who want to maximise their view without a full balcony installation.
Ideal For:
- Urban apartments with space constraints.
- Enhancing the aesthetics of large windows or French doors.
2. Cantilevered Balcony
A cantilevered balcony is a type that projects outwards from the building, but has no support from below. These balconies can be structurally challenging, but they offer a modern and sleek design without unobstructed space beneath.
Ideal For:
- Homes with a minimalist design.
- Buildings where you want the balcony to appear as a seamless extension of the interior.
3. Stacked Balcony
Stacked balconies are very common in multi-story buildings. Each balcony is directly above another and is supported by pillars or columns. These balconies are much easier to install structurally as well as provide a uniform look over multiple floors.
Ideal For:
- Multi-story homes or apartment complexes.
- Ensuring uniformity and ease of balcony installation.
Key Considerations
1. Purpose
Before you decide on the type of balcony to choose, you should first consider what you want to use the balcony for. Are you looking for a space to entertain? A quiet spot to relax? or are you wanting to simply bring more light and air into your space? Having an intended purpose will offer influence to the size, design and materials to use with your installation.
2. Size and Space
The size of a balcony will greatly depend on the available space and how you plan to use it. Small balconies are perfect for a small chair and table, while larger spaces can offer more space, furniture and functionality. It’s important to ensure that your balcony is in proportion to the building.
3. Material Selection
The material of the balcony not only affects the aesthetic of a balcony, it also affects the durability and maintenance needed. Some common materials include:
- Wood: Offers a warm, natural look but requires regular maintenance.
- Steel: Durable and strong, ideal for modern designs but can be prone to rust.
- Glass: Provides unobstructed views and a sleek appearance but needs regular cleaning.
- Concrete: Strong and durable, suitable for heavy use but can be less visually appealing.
- Aluminium: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and low-maintenance, making it ideal for various climates and modern designs. It’s also highly versatile and can be powder-coated in various colours to match your aesthetic.
5. Safety Regulations
All balconies must comply with local building codes and safety regulations. They are there to help with a range of areas such as minimum height of balustrades, load bearing capacity as well as many other structural elements. It is essential that the balcony meets all legal requirements to avoid issues during or after the construction.
Design and Aesthetics
1. Integration with Home Architecture
A balcony should not only be functional, it should complement your existing home’s architecture. For example, a sleek, modern balcony might not be the best option for a traditional home. It is important to consider the style, colour, and materials of your property when choosing a balcony design to ensure that it blends well with the overall aesthetic.
2. Colour and Finishes
The appearance of a balcony can be greatly influenced by the colour and materials used. It is always best to opt for weather-resistant materials that match your home. A good example of this is a matte black finish with a modern aluminium balcony, or a natural wood finish for a more rustic design.
3. Furniture and Décor
There is nothing worse than having a beautiful balcony, and then realising that the furniture you purchased takes up all of the space. Measure your floor space and then make a conscious decision on the size and style of furniture. Lightweight and weather resistant furniture is the best option, while larger balconies can accommodate substantial size pieces. If you want to add more personality and character to your balcony, having outdoor rugs, cushions and plants are a great way to do this.
4. Lighting
Lighting can also transform your balcony and create different atmospheres, whilst also enabling you to use the balcony of an evening. Ambient lighting such as string lights or lanterns offer a warm and inviting glow. Task lighting such as wall fixtures can provide better illumination if you are wanting to read or dine on your balcony.
Sustainability
Sustainability is a huge part of life now and it’s important to be conscious of the materials we use and how we can help improve our environment. Here are some areas that can help.
1. Eco-Friendly Materials
When deciding on materials, look for those that are eco friendly and sustainable. A great example of this is reclaimed wood, recycled metal and low emission paints as they can reduce the environmental impact of the balcony installation.
2. Green Balconies
Plants not only add beauty to your exterior space, but it also promotes sustainability. Vertical gardens, climbing vines and potted plants create a type of oasis that improves air quality and provides shade if required.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect balcony for your home involves a mix of functionality. Aesthetics and practicality. Considering the materials, size and integration with your properties design can help to create a stunning and useful outdoor space. Adhere to regulations and consider maintenance and you will have your dream balcony that will stand the test of time.