Balkony

Balkony (Polish for balconies) are architectural projections from a building’s façade, typically accessed from an interior room and enclosed by a railing or balustrade. They provide outdoor space in urban environments and are common in many regions around Europe.

Most balconies are cantilevered, meaning they are supported by the building structure without external columns, though some are supported by brackets or posts. They are usually attached to a floor slab and protected by a parapet or railing to ensure safety. Typical dimensions vary, but depths around 0.8 to 1.5 meters and railing heights near 1 to 1.1 meters are common to meet safety standards.

Materials for balkony include reinforced concrete, steel, aluminum, and sometimes wood or composite materials. Railings may be metal, glass, or a combination, chosen for durability, weather resistance, and aesthetics. Balconies may be open to the outside or partially enclosed by glazing or screens, and some locales distinguish between fully open balconies and enclosed or winterized variants.

Safety and maintenance considerations are guided by local building codes and weather conditions. Balconies must support expected loads, including snow in colder climates, and require regular inspection for corrosion, water intrusion, and deck wear. Maintenance tasks often include cleaning, sealing, repainting, and ensuring drainage is unobstructed.

In urban design, balkony contribute to microclimates, ventilation, and social life by offering private outdoor space. They are particularly prominent on mid- to late-20th-century residential blocks in many European cities and remain a common feature in contemporary housing as well.