balconi

Balconi is the plural form of balcone in Italian, but in English writing it is commonly used to refer to balconies in general. A balcony is a platform that projects from a building’s façade and is enclosed by a railing or parapet, usually accessed from an interior room. Balconies provide outdoor space, daylight, and ventilation, and they can contribute to a building’s façade with rhythm and ornament. They range from small projections above street level to wide, gallery-like spans.

Construction and types vary. Cantilever balconies protrude from the wall and rely on the structural slab for support. Balconies supported by brackets, corbels, or columns offer a different visual and load path. Some are enclosed with glass or metal screens, creating a sheltered space, while loggias are open or semi-enclosed galleries that are connected to the exterior but may not be fully projecting. In some architectural traditions, decorative ironwork railings and stone balustrades are prominent features.

Materials and design elements reflect climate, era, and style. Modern balconies often use concrete or steel with steel or glass railings, while traditional ones may feature wrought iron balustrades, timber decking, or stone parapets. Finishes range from painted surfaces to tile, marble, or other durable claddings, chosen for durability against weather and ease of maintenance.

History and cultural role vary by region. Balconies have been prominent in European urban architecture since the Renaissance and became a common street-facing feature in 18th to 19th-century cities, where they framed façades and provided social space. Today, balconies remain valued for light, air, and connection to the outdoors, while design and safety standards regulate their construction and upkeep.