What to do when the balcony door does not want to open?

The modern balcony has long ceased to be a platform for storing unnecessary or seasonal items. This is a space that, with a reasonable approach, can become a separate room in your apartment. And its format will be whatever you want.

Balcony decoration can be done in different styles. We will offer you interesting solutions in interior design, ideas for DIY decoration, original advice from designers, we will tell you how best to arrange an open balcony, combine it with a room, choose furniture, choose colors.

Ideas for beautiful DIY decoration

To decorate your balcony space tastefully, you need to choose an idea or concept and complement it with details. Modern design today is dominated by loft, minimalism, Provence, country, modern, Mediterranean or Oriental styles. If space allows, choose classics, colonial style, chalets.

Does this whole performance seem difficult and unrealistic to you? Of course, if your budget allows, you can use the services of a professional designer and finishers. But even if funds are not enough, the main thing is to choose a format and add a couple of stylish details to the interior.

Minimalism

Minimalism is characterized by compactness and details that do not overload the space. The tone is set by a spacious built-in wardrobe.

East style

The design of an oriental interior is relevant for a chill-out area or a converted bedroom. Mosaic and bright colors are used. A low podium bed and a couple of ottomans, fringed curtains, and sconces with lampshades would be appropriate.

Provence

Combines with utility rooms, dining areas, winter gardens, children's rooms and recreation areas. Walls in light colors, finely patterned wallpaper or pastel-painted paneling, paintings and drawings on the theme of original provincial towns.

Modern

Suitable for an office or bar. Smooth lines and a minimum of angles are important here. The materials used are wood, PVC, decorative plaster, stone, tiles or wallpaper.

Construction of houses

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An integral element of modern multi-storey buildings is a loggia or balcony. But, in accordance with the standards of modern aesthetics of high-rise buildings, it is not always allowed to glaze them, and, moreover, not everyone will prefer to carry out this activity on their own. In this regard, the question of repairing an open balcony often arises. Despite this, the fundamental concept of modern construction is the refusal to standardize urban buildings, and therefore, in modern houses one can find more and more buildings that are very different in their architectural features from traditional buildings. The structural elements of the buildings, and especially the balconies, also underwent certain changes that could not go unnoticed. The described changes affected not only urban multi-storey buildings, but also private houses, where the architectural features of buildings are more variable. In this regard, owners of private houses have more opportunities to equip a unique and truly original balcony design that will highlight each specific building. It should be noted that it is appropriate to arrange an open balcony in a private house only if it is characterized by the presence of at least two floors. Many will argue that balconies can also be located on the ground floor, but in this case such an extension is called an open terrace and has nothing in common with a balcony. As in urban multi-storey buildings, open balconies are built in accordance with basic norms and rules, therefore, it is inappropriate to say that in a private house less attention is paid to balcony elements, since they are also subject to high loads. Considering the relevance of the previously identified issue, in this article we will consider the main types of open balcony structures, the requirements that must be taken into account during their construction, as well as the features of their design and finishing.

Content

1. How to arrange a balcony in a private house: main types of structures
2. The main types of balconies in private houses and their features
3. Requirements for installation of the visor
4. Features of floor preparation on an open balcony
5. Wall decoration on an open balcony: basic materials
6. Original ideas for decorating an open balcony

How to arrange a balcony in a private house: main types of structures

In the process of arranging an open balcony, it is important to adhere to the basic architectural concept of the building and maintain harmony between the elements of the balcony and the overall appearance of the home. Thanks to the presence of this design, the functionality and attractiveness of the building facade, as well as the overall comfort in the house, significantly increases. There are two types of balcony structures:

• Beam-and-post balcony structures;
• Beam-cantilever balcony structures;

The construction of such structures involves the installation of load-bearing balcony beams into the crown of the log house, as well as the use of wooden or metal slopes, which are necessary to strengthen the cantilever part. The cross-section of the supporting beams of the cantilever part is selected in such a way that the possibility of the balcony collapsing during operation is completely excluded.

The main types of balconies in private houses and features of their installation

The most common option used in the construction of a private house is concrete balcony structures. What are their main design features?

Main features of concrete structures:

• Depth or reach is a standard design parameter, the value of which is 1 meter. Its implementation is carried out as follows: a reinforced concrete slab is clamped into one of the load-bearing walls of the house and welded to metal embedded parts, the role of which can be played by anchor bolts, metal profiles or plates. If you are building a house made of stone or brick, the slab is installed at the stage of raising the wall;
• In some cases, due to the massiveness of the balcony, it becomes necessary to install additional supporting elements, which, like an additional console, rest against previously prepared soil;
• Since a balcony in a private house is an open structure, it is necessary to take care of its ability to withstand the negative effects of environmental factors. Let's look at how to do this below;
• The installation of the balcony slab is carried out in such a way that its upper part is at least 10 cm below the threshold;
• The material for the balcony railing is metal elements made from steel profiles, and the height of the railing must be at least one meter. To secure the steel gratings, they are welded to metal embedded parts, which are an integral element of the balcony slab.
• However, concrete balconies are not the only option for arranging balcony elements. You can often find wooden balconies in private houses, but the requirements for them are no lower than those for concrete structures.

Main features of installation of open wooden balconies:

• Answering the question: “How to make an open balcony?”, we note that the basis of the structure is made up of cantilever beams that perform a load-bearing function and take on all the acting loads. They are made from timber with a cross-section of 100×200 mm and embedded in a load-bearing wall to a depth of at least 25 cm;
• The location of adjacent beams is carried out at a distance of 70-80 cm from each other. At the same time, they are carefully treated with an antiseptic solution and the areas located in the wall are waterproofed, for which roll waterproofing materials are used, one of which is roofing felt;
• After installing the cantilever beams, they begin to install other elements of the balcony, using only bolted elements and grooved joints and abandoning screws and nails;
• The enclosing element can act as a separate part and be mounted to vertical posts or constructed in parts, after which each element is installed separately;
• The final stage is the installation of wooden handrails, the ends of which must be recessed into the wall and covered with a protective varnish characterized by high frost resistance. The bolted elements are coated with paint.

Requirements for installation of the visor

• The canopy is an element that protects the balcony structure from precipitation and sunlight. It is often made of wood or metal;
• The dimensions of the canopy must exceed the dimensions of the balcony. So, the front part should be 10-20 cm larger, and the side should be 20-30 cm larger, while the tilt angle is 30-35 degrees. The canopy consists of several structural elements - two struts, rafters and longitudinal beams;
• Wooden boards measuring 150×30 mm are used as rafters. In most cases, they rest against the wall, where they are embedded in specially prepared grooves. The laying depth is 13-15 cm. It is necessary to remember the need to waterproof the ends embedded in the wall. In this case, the distance between the rafters is 50-60 cm. The grooves into which the ends of the rafters are inserted are sealed with concrete mortar, and the opposite ends are installed on struts, which are paired boards that are attached to vertical posts;
• To increase the strength of the structure, two cantilever beams are installed, one end attached to the wall and the other to the racks. For the manufacture of beams, timber measuring 150×50 mm is used;
• A sheathing made of slats or boards is laid on top of the rafters, after which the roofing material is installed on them. The junction of the wall and the roof must be sealed, which will prevent precipitation from penetrating under the roofing material.

Open balcony photo

Features of floor preparation on an open balcony

Due to the fact that an open balcony is constantly exposed to precipitation and sunlight, during its arrangement it is necessary to pay careful attention to the arrangement and finishing of the floor. For these purposes, it is necessary to choose specialized coatings that will prevent the influence of bad weather or excessive drying. The most optimal solution, from the point of view of specialists, is to use a concrete screed, on top of which the selected coating is laid. The most popular coatings for flooring on an open balcony are:

• Plastic materials;
• Ceramic tile;
• Linoleum;
• Terrace decking;
• Moisture resistant paint.

If you painted the floor on the balcony with paint specially designed for exterior use, you may not carry out repairs for the next 4 years. However, if you plan to thoroughly insulate your balcony, in this case it is recommended to give preference to other methods of protection that require increased resistance to moisture;

In accordance with the following option for arranging the floor, it can be covered with linoleum or laid with ceramic tiles, which will protect the concrete screed from the destructive effects of precipitation.

Ceramic tiles are one of the most optimal options for arranging the floor on an open balcony. Despite the fact that they are characterized by increased strength and resistance to external influences, when choosing a material it is important to pay attention to the following parameters:

• Indicators of the protective material, such as frost resistance and moisture absorption coefficient, since even for closed balconies, temperature changes can reach extreme values;
• It is important to pay attention to the integrity of the tile, as well as its quality characteristics, while choosing a material with a rough surface;
• It is important to consider the weight of the material to prevent excessive load on the balcony structure. There are lightweight samples of ceramic tiles that do not carry additional load on the balcony structure and at the same time increase its reliability.

Terrace decking is a material that in appearance resembles terrace board modules and is also used for arranging the floor on an open balcony. It is characterized by lightness, durability and high waterproofing characteristics, making it excellent for installation in open areas. Deck decking is made from rot-resistant hardwood or polymer composites. A distinctive feature of the material is its low specific weight, which does not create an increased load on the balcony structure.

Important! As for linoleum, which is sometimes used as flooring on an open balcony, experts do not recommend placing high hopes on it and abandoning its direct, more reliable competitors, such as terrace decking or porcelain stoneware. This is due to its low resistance to temperature changes. And, despite the fact that, on the one hand, the material is characterized by strength and durability, as well as ease of installation and subsequent maintenance, it is not recommended to be used as a floor covering on an open balcony, since poor-quality waterproofing can lead to its rotting.

Important! The interior decoration of an unglazed balcony differs from that of glazed structures, since they require the use of a variety of finishing and insulation options that are resistant to precipitation.

Wall decoration on an open balcony: basic materials

The decoration of the walls on the open balcony is also characterized by its own characteristics. For this purpose, it is necessary to use moisture-resistant materials that are characterized by resistance to pollution and a long service life, and will also ensure the resistance of the room to the influence of natural factors such as high humidity, drying out, and temperature changes.

Experts recommend using the following materials for finishing the walls of both an open balcony in a Khrushchev-era building and in a private house:

• Primer , which is used for the initial treatment of walls on the balcony. Experts recommend using primer mixtures whose structure allows them to penetrate deeply into the pores of the coating and increase its adhesive and strength characteristics of the surface. At the same time, it is important to select primer compositions taking into account the surface finish;
• Paints and varnishes , when choosing which it is necessary to take into account their resistance to abrasion. In this case, it is recommended to give preference to a weather-resistant coating, which is used for painting external surfaces;
• Plaster. If you decide to give preference to the specified finished material, choose decorative plaster, which contains special additional additives that prevent shrinkage and the formation of cracks on the treated surface;
• Ceramic tiles , if chosen, experts recommend giving preference to porcelain tiles, which are durable and highly frost-resistant, as well as resistant to precipitation;
• Lining or siding are ideal materials for arranging open areas, due to their resistance to temperature changes and precipitation. If we talk about materials for lathing, then for the manufacture of these elements it is recommended to abandon wooden slats and use metal elements treated with anti-corrosion compounds.

Original ideas for decorating an open balcony

When developing a design project for an open balcony, you can proceed in two ways:

• Choose a solution for decorating the balcony that is in harmony with the overall stylistic concept of the apartment, while maintaining the unity of style;
• Create an oasis that contrasts with the overall picture, which will not disrupt the overall interior concept and will decorate the interior of the main room.

Both a glazed and an open balcony, the design of which is the subject of this article, in the warm season is a full-fledged room that is regularly used by residents of an apartment or private house. In this regard, the decorative design of a balcony must be approached no less carefully than the decor of any other room. In the process of this, it is important to clearly define the functional purpose of the room, its stylistic solution and color scheme, which will generally determine the concept of this space. In most cases, an open balcony is used as a cozy corner for gatherings, where you can place wicker furniture and plant as many green plants as possible, which will ideally combine with the stylistic concept of Provence or country, as well as current eco-trends in the interior. So, let's look at the main stylistic trends used in decorating an open balcony with your own hands.

• Modern style , a characteristic feature of which is a combination of urban motifs and distinct notes of high-tech style and minimalism. It is based on the harmony of materials, shape and color. Distinctive features of the style are laconic decor and light pastel shades, diluted with bright color spots;

• High-tech is a style characterized by conciseness and restraint of design. An ultra-modern style concept is created using a combination of metal and plastic, an abundance of glossy surfaces, clear shapes and laconic lines. A distinctive feature of the style is coldness, which is expressed in restrained cold tones and clear lines of the interior. Contrasting colors of decor and accessories help to emphasize the originality and democracy of the style;

• Marine style , which, at first glance, is created by the presence of beach attributes, should convey the emotional state of endless relaxation and carelessness, as a result of which, to create it, a color scheme of white, blue and yellow shades is used, as well as light furniture with striped upholstery, which is part of a bright mosaic that conveys the mood and atmosphere of a maritime idyll;

• The classic style chosen for the design of the balcony retains its inherent luxury and solemnity, which are combined with calm, rigor and sophistication. Wood is mainly used in both interior decoration and furniture, although the use of bamboo or vinyl wallpaper, decorative plaster or stone, as well as wall paintings does not contradict the “modern” classics. Regarding the arrangement of lamps, various accessories and pieces of furniture, it is important to maintain symmetry;

• The country style in the interior is designed to recreate the atmosphere of rustic coziness and comfort, conducive to relaxation after work. At the same time, the interior of the balcony is dominated by natural materials that correspond to the eco-concept of style. The basis of the interior is created by wooden furniture and natural textiles - curtains, tablecloths, decorative napkins, and additional charm is given to it by lamps and lamps, as well as rugs, preferably handmade.

Ideas for decorating an open balcony:

Use of folding furniture . Due to the fact that in the summer an open balcony is used for friendly gatherings, its arrangement requires a large amount of furniture, the placement of which is often problematic in a small balcony space. In this case, folding furniture comes to the rescue: folding chairs that can be hung on the wall and removed at any time convenient for you, as well as lightweight folding tables made specifically for terraces and open balconies;

Corner for relaxation and reading . Even on the smallest balcony you can easily fit a comfortable chair or a cozy armchair on which you can place a warm blanket or soft toys. By decorating such a corner with an abundance of decorative greenery, you will ensure yourself a pleasant pastime with a cup of coffee or reading books;

Creating a vertical garden . If you are a lover of indoor plants, but there is sorely not enough space in your apartment for them, the best option for you would be a fashionable solution that involves creating a vertical garden that will turn any wall into a flower bed or bed. To create it, you will need special containers that you can purchase or make yourself;

Growing edible plants . In trays installed on window sills or railings, as well as flowerpots, you can grow not only cacti or flowers, but also edible plants, including various types of lettuce, chili peppers, parsley or dill. They are characterized by no less decorative appearance than indoor plants, and besides, they will delight you with a home harvest;

Creating a lounge area on the balcony . If desired, you can recreate an oriental-style seating area on the balcony without much expense, which implies the presence of soft pillows on the floor, which can be easily unfolded and removed in case of bad weather, and, moreover, can accommodate a large number of people. This setting will be appreciated by lovers of oriental-style tea ceremonies and hookah lovers;

Using a biofireplace. Compact biofireplaces can be easily moved from place to place; moreover, they do not require additional devices and do not produce smoke. By creating a corner of a live fire, you will not only warm up in the evening, but also recreate a cozy atmosphere of romance and home relaxation with your family.

How to design an open balcony

When designing open-type balconies and loggias, all its architectural and technical features are taken into account. This space lags without protection from the weather, and in the cold season it is not used at all. In decor, preference should be given to materials with good moisture- and frost-resistant properties. The chosen colors should not be afraid of the sun and snow. The floor should be laid with a concrete screed, and a coating should be chosen for it - moisture-resistant paint, ceramic tiles or terrace decking.

The walls can be designed as follows:

• plaster - only for this purpose choose a composition that protects against the appearance of cracks;
• laying porcelain tiles is an excellent option, including for exterior decoration;
• decorate with siding or clapboard - modern, practical and long-lasting.

A fur skin will look gorgeous - on one of the walls or on the floor. You will get a quite cozy balcony.

Another important nuance in the design of an open balcony is the organization of lighting. Holes for wires should be thought out in advance so as not to damage the finish. People often forget to turn off the lights on balconies, so just in case, it’s better to immediately buy energy-saving diode lamps.

Closed sconces or stylized street lamps look good.

Video on decorating an open balcony:

Idea 10: Use garden lights and garlands

You can create a magical holiday atmosphere in nature on the balcony. Hang a street lamp or a garland - and in the evenings it will become especially cozy here. By the way, you can use solar-powered garden lamps here (if your balcony faces south and is well lit during the day).

The most functional for a small balcony space would be to use wall lamps. Pay attention to the lamps with metal fittings from the Mebelion store.

Wall lamp Citilux From RUB 2,700 +7

Sconce Crystal Lux From RUB 9,800. +7

How to decorate a balcony

An insulated and glazed loggia can become a relaxation room, a multifunctional work office and an exotic winter garden. There are countless options! You can make beautiful balconies using different elements. At the same time, wall decoration plays an important role in the design. You can do the decoration yourself. Both beginners and those who are open to experimentation can do this.

We offer you several unusual and original options:

• Painting.

Monumental painting is today a trend in the design of balcony spaces. Within 5 years, this decor option has experienced a boom. Gracefully and artistically painted walls are considered a sign of good form and refined taste.

The most universal theme is landscape. One option is to demonstrate spatial perspective, which visually moves back or dissolves walls, creating the illusion of volume.

Monumental painting requires high-quality painting materials that are resistant to ultraviolet radiation, temperature changes and high humidity. The ideal choice is tempera paints. Standard façade and interior materials and color pastes are also suitable.

• Flocking.

The name comes from the word "floki", which means chips. As a finish, it is a colorful loose mixture consisting of particles of different formats, also differing in shape and color. This material does not form condensation, is moisture resistant, has excellent heat and sound insulation properties, and is pleasant to the touch.

The flocking technique consists of applying an adhesive mixture and throwing flocks onto the sticky surface. Chaotic adhesion creates a unique effect. The finishing layer is a protective composition.

• Application.

You can choose from a million different applique options in the design studio, or you can make it hand-made. Knitted items, fabric patterns, and paper stickers are also used.

Fabric, drapery, plaster, stencils - you can use any of the options for decoration. For a modern balcony, design plays an important role.

Repair work on the balcony

In order for the results of the work on decorating the balcony to be successful, you need to start with repairs. After choosing the functional focus, the necessary work is determined. In any case, the balcony should be insulated. This reduces heat loss from the adjacent room.

Floor insulation

Repair work should begin from the floors. When buying cement, you need to take into account the curvature of the floor; usually balconies are made with a slope. Before pouring, formwork is done on the outside so that the mixture does not leak out. To hide the unflattering appearance, you can attach a corrugated sheet to the outside.

Polystyrene or expanded clay is used to insulate the floor

Important! For a balcony without heating, you need to take frost-resistant cement so that the floor does not crack from winter frosts.

The flooring can be laid after the cement screed has completely dried

After pouring cement, you need to decide on the floor covering:

Ideally, you need a heated floor on your balcony if you want to use it comfortably all year round.

Wall and ceiling finishing

The principles of finishing for a balcony differ from other rooms. When choosing materials, you need to take into account the lack of heating. Well suited for finishing PVC panels. If funds allow, you can replace them with wood. The walls can also be decorated with decorative plaster or stone masonry. For well-insulated balconies, you can use wallpaper.

Wooden cladding is equally suitable for both warm and cold balconies

PVC panels look decent, but are afraid of frost

Before finishing the ceiling on the balcony, it is better to pre-insulate it. For insulation, foam plastic, foil-coated insulation, penoplex, or mineral wool are suitable. The insulated ceiling can be finished with the same material as the walls.

How to choose furniture

Furniture for the balcony is a separate direction in the interior. You can use the old one, but be selective in your choice: do not turn a beautiful space into clutter with antiques.

The following types of balcony furniture are distinguished:

• folding - these designs are good for small areas; you can organize a reading corner or a summer bedroom. If you put a table, you can place several folding chairs around - a great option for friendly gatherings;

• wicker - this furniture can enliven any interior, even on a very miniature balcony. These can be chests of drawers, tables, mini-sofas. Their production uses natural materials such as rattan, wicker, bamboo, without chemical treatment. Whatever the designs, their lightness and maneuverability will facilitate the process of cleaning and rearranging, and their softness and warmth will create comfort on the balcony;

• built-in - the best option for miniature and cozy loggias. This type of furniture is a great space saver while remaining comfortable and functional. Most often these are vertical products designed for storing things. Ideal for balconies with recesses and niches or non-standard shapes. The advantage of such furniture is the absence of back and side walls;

• modular, cabinet or upholstered - this type of furniture is chosen to give the room fullness. In any case, small dimensions are welcome;

• forged - stylish metal products harmonize well with flowers and plants. You can get a magnificent winter garden or a blooming greenhouse. This furniture is easy to care for and very durable.

Decor ideas

A balcony in any style will look especially impressive if you equip it with original lighting fixtures and design details.

Garden lamps installed around the perimeter are more suitable for open balconies. Solar panels are especially popular now. In addition, they will save you from wiring equipment.

Floral arrangements are traditional balcony decorations that make it stand out from the background of the entire house. As a living environment you can use:

• perennial or annual plants - for example, fragrant and incredibly spectacular marigolds;
• dwarf trees, bonsai - for example, fruit and hearth plants;
• climbing ones - these can be grapes or flowers that will protect from the sun and delight you with fruits.

You can place flowers as follows:

• in flower pots or pots mounted on the walls;
• in bird cages suspended from the ceiling;
• in flower boxes - there are options for external and internal placement.

There are a lot of ideas for decorating balconies. There is plenty to choose from!

Types of balcony structures

If we talk about the differences in the possible location of balconies, then we can distinguish four options:

1. Cantilever, which appears from the side as hanging in the air, received this name because it is attached using special consoles fixed in the wall. Instead of fastening consoles, which make it possible to equip a balcony up to 1.2 m wide, a solid cantilever slab can also be used, the edge of which is pinched between the floor elements (for this option, the width of the balcony should not exceed 1 meter. When building a balcony in a private house, it is necessary to take into account that the depth of attachment of consoles or slabs must be at least 0.4 m;
2. Attached, the slab is supported by beams fundamentally embedded in the soil on one side and pinched into the wall on the other. This allows you not to limit yourself to the width of the balcony slab. In addition, thanks to the supports, you can give the house a unique design, for example, by decorating them as columns. Please note that the construction of attached buildings is not designed for a height above the second floor, for safety reasons;
3. Attached is a structure where the slab rests on four supports, one end recessed into its own separate foundation. The advantage of such balconies is the possibility of constructing a balcony of any size, since it will not put a load on the main structure of the building. The most reliable option for adding a balcony to an already inhabited house, however, it has some features regarding the construction of an expansion joint (the junction of the common foundation of the house and the adjacent foundation). To ensure that when the foundation under the balcony shrinks, it does not destroy the main house foundation, so-called “ruffs” (metal rods with spikes on both sides) are used during construction. The foundations are connected with “ruffs”, and in the place of the connecting seam an elastic material, such as mineral wool or expanded polystyrene, is laid and sealed with sealant;
4. Built into the attic - this option cannot be used without reconstructing the roof if there is a desire to add an extension to the finished structure. As a rule, such premises are thought out at the general design stage.

Also read: Balcony railings in a country house, in a private house, in residential buildings

For construction, durable concrete or wooden structures are mainly used.

Interesting solutions in interior design

Hand-made products play an important role in creating a cozy and attractive space. You can diversify the design with different ideas:

• develop a unique author’s design that will reflect your worldview and habits - the presence of multiple details will give the space individuality;
• You can arrange decorative items in a certain order or according to Feng Shui yourself, using literature and the Internet, or invite a specialist.

You can decorate the balcony room with decorative candlesticks and ashtrays. Candlesticks in the form of half-liter jars painted in different shades, installed or hung on the walls, look great. Elements of garden design, vases, and decorative figurines will also enliven your interior.

Video on balcony design:

A lot of greenery and flowers are always a win-win option when decorating a loggia. Everyone dreams of making a beautiful balcony. For miniature spaces, vertical gardening is suitable, for complex shapes with sharp corners - elegant shelves or tubs with exotic plants, for open spaces - hanging structures with climbing compositions of ampelous flowers.

On a narrow balcony with complex geometry, compact furniture and a minimum of decorative elements look more appropriate, which, if properly arranged, will help straighten out the shape of the room.

An important role in the design is given to photo wallpapers, mirrors, and artistic painting of the main wall. All these elements will help change the geometry of the balcony, give it perspective and visually enlarge it.

Color palette in the interior

“The most important thing is the weather in the house,” the famous singer sings. But no, the most important thing is the right colors. Shades form the overall atmosphere and set the tone for the room. According to the laws of physics, a light surface reflects light waves, while a dark surface attracts and absorbs them. This should be taken into account when choosing a color palette. Intense and rich shades are suitable for the eastern and southern sides. If the windows face north, it is better to choose pastel and light colors.

The color scheme influences a person’s psycho-emotional mood: red - excites, blue - concentrates attention, yellow - tones, orange - quickly restores, light green - stimulates mental activity, purple - encourages creativity.

A competent combination of colors will change the room visually. To increase space, you need light colors. The following move will help to shorten a loggia that is too long - make the smaller wall darker than the rest.

Soft muted colors hide irregularities and defects of imperfect surfaces and make them less noticeable. A combination of several tones can achieve any visual effect:

• white is a universal background color, compatible with all RAL colors;
• orange goes well with green, but all colors should be at the same saturation level;
• the combination of pink and beige is relevant for zoning;
• the color of spices, tones of oriental spices such as turmeric and cardamom are suitable for exotic styles;
• blue is combined with rich blue and gray;
• wooden is combined with sand and brown.

When choosing a color, you should also take into account the surface texture. On a smooth surface the paint looks lighter, on a rough surface it looks darker, on a matte surface it looks warmer, on a polished surface it looks cooler.

Original advice from designers

• Space saving is facilitated by racks and shelves installed on different surfaces - the parapet and end surfaces.
• A protruding window sill can be used as a table or plant stand.
• The design of windows with a balcony should be in the same style as the entire room. Classic curtains will not work; short curtains are outdated. Austrian, roller or Roman blinds and horizontal blinds look fashionable, stylish and original. Vertical elements are not preferable as they will interfere with movement.

• To visually increase the height of ceilings, there is no better solution than a glossy stretch ceiling. To add coziness, on the contrary, ceilings in dark shades look better.
• Regardless of the area, it is not recommended to use large lamps or long cords.

Features of concrete extensions

The strength of this material makes it widely used, even for building a balcony in a private house with your own hands.

Let's consider the rules for its arrangement:

• The load-bearing elements are fastened to the wall using welding: in brick buildings with lintel reinforcement, in stone buildings - with pre-fixed anchors. If the strength of the walls raises doubts about their reliability, the structure is strengthened with additional consoles or additional supports are used, installed on the other edge of the slab;
• The overhang of the concrete base should not exceed 1-1.2 m, and its upper level should be located 0.1-0.15 m lower than the intended installation of the floor;
• Balcony railings are installed to a height of at least 1.1 m according to the safety requirements specified in SNiP, the door threshold is calculated at 0.1 m from the floor and about 0.2 m from the base of the slab;
• To prevent the open balcony on the second floor from being destroyed due to precipitation falling on it, it is necessary to slope the created floor 2 degrees lower towards the street to drain water. For closed areas, waterproofing of the balcony slab is mandatory.

Forged metal elements are very often used as fencing on concrete sites, which look very prestigious and at the same time are highly reliable. But, for such a fence, it is necessary to carry out a mandatory calculation of the slab for the load-bearing load, since the mass of forged fences is quite large.

How to restore a damaged slab?

If the owner has a desire to decorate his balcony with forged railings, but the base slab is damaged, then most likely it can be restored. This mainly applies to reinforced foundations.

To do this, it is necessary to remove the top layer, install the formwork and repair it by pouring a cement-sand screed. If the thickness is more than 5 cm, then it is better to use a reinforcing metal mesh in the screed.

Also, metal embedded parts are mounted into the screed, to which the elements of the forged parapet will subsequently be welded. When the cement screed has hardened, you can begin installing the fence. Builders recommend using adhesives in screeds.

How to place accents correctly

Every meter of the balcony is very important to create a harmonious interior. You need to manage the space wisely. Placing accents will help with this.

The simplicity and idyll of the village way of life will be emphasized by the country style. Brick or log walls, textured plaster with deliberate unevenness, whitewash, tiles and aged wood are suitable for creating a unique Russian character.

For the Mediterranean style, blue and blue colors, wooden and wicker furniture are relevant. Curls of forged parts will give the room a special flavor.

For an oriental style, you can decorate borders and window sills with mosaics, place a hookah and a low table, and place pillows or poufs on the floor.

Combining a balcony with a room

If you have the desire and opportunity to combine the loggia area with a room or kitchen, there will be a lot of possibilities and ideas for decorating the space. This can be done in a legal way in agreement with the relevant state supervision services.

When combined with a kitchen, a balcony can become an original place for eating and drinking tea. When combined with a living room, you can arrange an office for work or a secluded corner for relaxation on the balcony. Various options are used to refurbish and decorate a window with a balcony.

Canopies and awnings for balconies

To protect the space from precipitation and scorching sun rays, most homeowners attach canopies or awnings over their balcony areas, which are made from materials such as polycarbonate, ondulin, metal tiles, etc.

They can be installed following the example of single-pitch or gable roofs, using special brackets. The gable option is most suitable for corner balconies, since it is more reliable than a single-slope one in terms of resistance to wind loads or snow precipitation. The arched and dome type look stylish and modern, but this design will cost a little more.

You can learn more clearly how to make a balcony in a private house by watching the video provided for viewing.

An exclusive balcony can become the most striking decoration of your home, and a glazed area will help you create a useful space for relaxation, work or your favorite activity: sports, reading or just home gardening.

Photo design ideas

Any of the ideas deserves attention, but one cannot but agree with the opinion of the legendary French designer Andre Poux.