Balconies in apartments have now been a key area in urban real estate markets in the post-COVID-19 period, as the notion of cross ventilation, open spaces, and wellness gained traction. A balcony is a (usually) small attachment to an upper floor, an enclosed extension. Balconies are not added to a building, they are built as part of the building. Balconies are integral part of the building construction which is designed by the competent consulting engineer and also supervised by the engineer. Today they are common features of modern real estate developments.

Balconies, patios and terraces have long been a feature of Kenyan Coastal real estate, while apartment balcony living is a relatively new idea that emerged from new modern homes. All home owners and renters desire to have a balcony to their homes in order to get a place where one would sit and relax at the end of a tough working day. That is why all new developments, especially apartments and condos in urban areas, have balconies are essential feature that marks a move towards this new way of thinking.

It is now a growing trend, a consideration for builders and a choice for buyers. Whenever space avails itself, one thinks of beautifying their house plan and making it look complete and adorable with a balcony. The balcony; therefore, is the must-have accessory for many urban homes today.

Considerations for Civil engineers
Balconies are either hung off of a building (wood frame) with hangars, or the deck floor is cantilevered out to form the balcony. The floor joists go completely along the building and are cantilevered over the top wall plate. These can be timber, or, in modern structures, steel. The ‘flooring’ is then attached to the joists with appropriate safety rails later.
Often the safety rails also act as an anchor by stretching from the floor level upwards to a fixture on the wall. Obviously, size and materials will dictate cost, but be sure to consult a few builders about the work, and ask to see their previous work. A poorly-installed balcony could easily damage your home, while a well-executed one has the potential to more than pay for itself in terms of the value it adds to your home. Civil engineer generally agree that the structural strength of the existing building is key especially for the cantilever kind of balcony. Cantilever construction allows for overhanging structures without external bracing, in contrast to constructions supported at both ends with loads applied between the supports. The building materials should be carefully selected. The purpose of the balcony is critical, some balconies are designed for beauty while others serve as part of the living room. It is paramount to know if they are to be cantilevered or supported by columns.

For one to add a balcony to their house in Kenya, they require permission from the local authorities especially if their balcony projects out from the building.

In this article, we want to focus on the benefits for home owners.
As we mentioned above, home owners and renters like the option of a balcony. A building with a balcony looks much more aesthetic as compared to a building without one. A building with a balcony simply looks much more spacious and huger. The idea of a home with a balcony is liberating. There are multiple benefits of having a balcony which directly affects your perception and health. An outdoor balcony can be a retreat for those who want to enjoy a secluded spot and the view from above. Many people like to dine on their balconies as well. It offers a good location for grilling outdoors, if there is ample clearance space from the building.

10 Benefits for Balconies for Home owners and Renters
There are several benefits of having an outdoor balcony, and one of the biggest advantages is the ability to maximize living space. Another benefit is that an outdoor balcony generally offers more privacy than a ground floor patio deck. Obviously, health benefits are underscored with increased air circulation and exposure to sunlight, et cetera. It’s also a good place to grow plants or a garden, as animals and rodents aren’t likely to invade the space. A balcony can also be a good place to relax and read a book or a magazine.

1. Maximize living space
Balconies provide maximum living space. They allow an extra area of space for people who don’t have a lot. This is very handy for people who live in apartment buildings or flats. You could get a poly dining set that can withstand the elements and during warmer months the balcony can provide valuable dining space without compromising living space indoors. An outdoor wraparound balcony can greatly expand a home’s living space. Many can be custom built to extend around the diameter of a house. This allows for maximum space to place outdoor furniture, plants, or accessories. Many people enjoy decorating their outdoor balconies to add sophistication and style to the exterior of their home.

2. Create personal outdoor space
The possibilities of what you can do in your balcony are endless. You can transform your apartment balcony into your private relaxation oasis. You can unleash your green thumb and start your own pocket garden, whether you grow ornamental or floral plants, or cultivate your own fruits and vegetables. You can turn it into a reading nook, a meditation spot, a fitness station, or simply a lounge for relaxation and socializing. Add some pillows and even a blanket for cooler weather, and you’ll have a spot for lazy days, quiet book reading and perhaps a little star gazing. Surely, the balcony the ideal place to relax and have a cup of tea with a newspaper in the morning. You can wake up early and sit on the balcony with a cup of tea and plan your day.
Even in the evenings with a nice cool breeze flowing, you can enjoy time playing with your kids or relaxing with your spouse on the balcony.

3. Take in the view
You can enjoy one of the main benefits of a balcony – the view. Balcony views are special because they provide an outlook on your environs from above. You may not have a stunning mountain vista or water lapping in a lake below, but there’s something unique about a balcony perspective even on apartments in a city like Nairobi. You see your surroundings and become a quiet observer rather than a participant in the scene.

4. Ample light and access to fresh air
It is easy access to fresh air in a city like Nairobi that is in the tropics. The health benefits of spending more time outdoors are huge, and most people are lucky enough to be able to have an array of plants, arrange them on their balconies and create an enjoyable garden at home to relax in. In fact, sometimes it can be very relaxing to stand on your balcony, observe the scenes in your surroundings and take in fresh air and boost up your health!

5. Grow plants
Having a balcony can help you endeavor your dreams. Did you think that you could never pursue your passion of farming? Use your balcony to create a make shift garden for yourselves. You may not grow herbs, fruits and vegetables but you can certainly grow plants for aesthetics.

While balconies are often relatively small, you may be able to grow your own urban garden. It’s a good idea to start small with a few plants, have a few successes (and learning-failures), and then, gradually add to your outdoor greenery.
Your plants not only add to your enjoyment on the balcony, but they also help bring the outdoors in. But before you dust off your green thumb, check with your landlord to see what’s allowed.

6. Host a party and hangout haven
A balcony is what you make of it. You can eat and drink outdoors, build your relaxation hangout, check on the weather or simply delight in the view. An outdoor balcony can be a retreat for those who want to enjoy a secluded spot and the view from above. Many people like to dine on their balconies as well. It offers a good location for grilling outdoors, if there is ample clearance space from the building.
You can amaze your friends and family with a cozy private space full of greenery and sparkly lights. Set up a barbecue and a bench to serve your food and drinks. Sit and gossip or simply skygaze, the opportunities are endless.

7. Enhance storage space and utility
Outdoor balconies are versatile. Although it isn’t the most conventional concept, a balcony can also be used for storage space. Some balconies include a custom-built shed or storage closet that can be very convenient when limited space is a concern.
A big balcony will allow you to store kids bicycle strollers and other miscellaneous stuff. While it is not recommended, some people construct a temporary store on the balcony.
Most apartments in Nairobi’s Eastlands do not have a store attached so many people get a temporary store made in the balcony.

8. Great for health
As compared to a regular window, a huge balcony will help allow a large amount of light into your living space. The entry of natural light can boost your productivity and also maintain freshness in your home. Sunlight also provides Vitamin D, so now you know where to spend your mornings.
Spending ample time outdoors has been known to benefit your immune system, improve eyesight, minimize stress, boost productivity and enhance your creative mind. You can spend your mornings and evenings chilling in your balcony… sip your chai, listen to music and simply escape from the world.

9. Add-on value for rental or resale
An apartment with a balcony will definitely be more expensive than an apartment without one. Modern and stylish balconies add aesthetic value and create an appeal to the façade. Any potential tenant or buyer would most likely love to have a balcony in their condo unit, so this feature adds on to the value of your property. If you want to resale or rent you will get a higher price. Therefore, you can possibly command a higher price should you decide to have it leased out or resold.

10. Work from home is easier
Last, but certainly not least, Covid-19 has caused a lot of people to work from home. Many people who are having troubles staying indoors the whole day. Always staying indoors affects mental health. Having a large balcony will allow you to work outdoors and will bring a change in the regular schedule. You can easily create an outdoor work station on your balcony!

Trust us it will work wonders for your productivity and mood.

Do you also enjoy the idea of moving into a home with a balcony? You can renovate your existing property and construct a balcony. You will also be able enhance the appearance of your balcony without the hassle of maintenance. To get in touch with us, drop in an email at info@herobgroups.co.ke, or call us at +254 (0) 202 131 222

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