A young married couple Anatoly and Anna from Minsk said about their loggia:
– My wife and I came up with the idea of building a loggia a long time ago. I wanted to improve the loggia, insulate it, add functionality (“hides” for storing things), and create a small relaxation area.
It was necessary, if possible, to leave the maximum amount of free space and to make good use of the so-called “dead zones” of the loggia (the space to the left and right of the window in the loggia, as well as the space created under the window sill after installing the double-glazed windows).
Before starting to describe the process, I want to say that my way of solving this problem is not a dogma; on the Internet there are countless different options for insulating and finishing loggias and balconies that are worthy of attention and respect, so choose the one you like.
The main thing is that before starting work, you need to decide on the ultimate goal - the required degree of insulation and functional purpose.
So, in order:
1. First, a double-chamber plastic double-glazed window with 4 sliding frames was installed. We decided to install the package with sliding frames. Among the advantages - saving space inside the loggia, excellent visibility and access to fresh air, among the disadvantages - sliding windows are considered not the best heat insulators compared to swing types of frames.
The obvious advantage of sliding frames is the ability to change the configuration of the open space. Believe me! In the summer it’s a fairy tale.
3. If necessary, the walls and ceiling were leveled with plaster and primed.
4. The insulation of the floor and ceiling was carried out according to the following scheme: laying dry logs soaked in an antifungal mixture. Between them, extruded polystyrene foam 50 mm thick was attached to the adhesive polymer-mineral mixture for gluing the insulation boards (in addition to the glue, mounting dowels were used to attach the polystyrene foam boards to the ceiling). The joints between the plates were filled with special polyurethane adhesive foam (conventional mounting foams contain toluene, which dissolves polystyrene foam). Penofol was laid on top of the slabs (the seams between the sheets of penofol were glued with aluminum tape).
4.1. In the case of a floor, a subfloor is initially laid on the joists - a flooring made of plywood 18 mm thick (it is important that between the penofol and the plywood there is air gap 10 mm high). In our case, I laid a moisture-resistant class 32 laminate on top of the plywood.
4.2. To the ceiling wooden sheathing attached MDF panels, installed LED lights and installed a ceiling dryer.
5. The wall under the window and to the right of it was insulated with 30 mm thick polystyrene foam, which was then only plastered, puttyed and painted.
6. Under the 200 mm deep niche formed after installing the double-glazed window, I made a structure with sliding doors. MDF scraps from the ceiling were used for the doors; they were purchased aluminum profiles for the frame, guide rails and a roller system. Behind the sliding doors are hidden shelves on which all small things are stored.
7. At the wall on the right I assembled a side table with a folding top, the material of the side table is laminated chipboards, which were custom-made according to our drawings.
8. A wardrobe was installed in the space to the left of the window.
- Sliding wardrobe with installation – $350;
- Laminate, baseboard, underlay for laminate – about $90;
- Laminated chipboard (custom material for bedside tables and shelves under the window) – $100;
- Adhesive polymer-mineral mixture 50 kg – $20;
- Finishing putty 30 kg. – 15 dollars;
- MDF panels, acrylic paint, LED ceiling lights, socket, switch and other related little things - about $150.
Does your balcony need updating? There are many ways to make this place beautiful, cozy and comfortable.
What to arrange a balcony or loggia for
Well, what’s stopping you from decorating your balcony? After all, you will free up an extra 5-6 meters of free space. Many people don’t even imagine what benefits a balcony can bring! Of course, it all depends on its size and shape.
- It can be equipped as a personal office by placing a small computer table here. It won't take up much space, but you can work in silence at any time.
- You can triple the creative workshop. It requires a cabinet or cabinet and a table. All this will be compactly placed on any balcony, and you can do your favorite thing there, tinkering, repairing, embroidering, drawing, sculpting, etc.
- You can make a mini-greenhouse on the balcony; for this, of course, you will have to take care of appropriate heating and lighting, and then by choosing the right varieties, you can delight yourself with the harvest all year round.
- The balcony can be converted into a gym! To do this, you will need to put at least one exercise machine there and purchase basic sports equipment (a pair of dumbbells, a jump rope, an expander, a mat). You can install a VCR or player. And then you can calmly do gymnastics without disturbing anyone.
- From the loggia you can easily make a playroom for a child, of course, worrying about his safety in advance. Here you can store toys, install a small slide, a children's sports complex (turntables, rings, wall bars). In summer, on such a balcony for kids, you can install an inflatable pool.
- Many people set up a “winter garden” on the balcony; for this purpose, one wall is made mirrored, and shelves with shelves for flowers are installed on the side of such a wall. Such a winter garden will delight you at any time of the year.
- Recently, it has become fashionable to have a sauna on the balcony. We do not recommend that you do this yourself; it is better to contact specialists. To do this, you need to purchase a mini-sauna.
- If the balcony area allows, then you can make a dining room there. Place a table and a couple of chairs, several tables for dishes! You will, of course, prepare food in the kitchen, but you can also eat in fresh air, admiring the picturesque views on the balcony.
- What do you think of the bar counter with chairs? In the kitchen, such tables are already outdated, but on the balcony - just right!
- A place of rest and relaxation. Some people install a massage chair, others a full bed.
How to arrange a balcony or loggia
In general, if you have imagination and desire, by freeing up the balcony, you can do whatever you want there.
Naturally, whatever you decide to do, first of all you need to clear the balcony. See which things you really need and which are worth parting with. If possible, take the contents to the dacha.
The second point in arranging a balcony is its glazing. You can install ordinary wooden windows, Euro-windows or make frameless glazing. Glass can be made stained, tinted or regular. Thanks to glazing, the room will become warm and soundproof. To maintain the temperature, you can insulate the balcony inside or outside. For better effect We recommend laying insulation on the ceiling and floor.
You should definitely take care of heating the room. Of course, if finances allow you, you can have heated floors on the balcony.
You will also have to deal with covering the walls, ceiling and floor. This can be done using wood or plastic lining. As always, everything depends on your desire and financial capabilities! You can cover the walls with wallpaper, foam, paint the walls or apply plaster.
The ceiling can be made suspended, it can also be lined with clapboard or simply whitewashed.
Ceiling on a balcony or loggia
It is better to put a Euroboard on the floor; these are wooden plates made of different types of wood, on top of which you can put carpet, laminate, linoleum, or just throw a carpet.
How to renovate a balcony - ideas
With the arrival of spring, there is a desire to see a renewed space around you. And if you have been meaning to start arranging a balcony or loggia for a long time, then it’s time to start implementing your plans! Let's look at a few steps to create a cozy and comfortable space.
Walls on the balcony
Materials for interior finishing
Wooden lining is a popular and common material for interior decoration. It can be combined with other materials, tinted in an interesting color and not placed on all walls.
Reiki
Using vertical and horizontal slats, you can visually change the height and width of the space. When positioned vertically, the slats can serve as ceiling mounts and flower holders.
MDF panels
Using painted, laminated or natural wood veneered MDF panels, you can clad one or two end walls.
Paint finishing
Using colored paint, you can refresh a balcony or loggia if the wall covering does not need to be replaced. Bright colors and unexpected decisions will help make the balcony cozy.
Wallpaper
An insulated balcony can be finished with non-woven or vinyl wallpaper with bright unusual prints, suitable for small walls.
Finishing with soft panels
Using this material you can create a cozy, beautiful and comfortable place to relax.
Tiles with a small contrasting pattern are perfect for a small floor area and will highlight it beautifully.
Storage space
There are many options here. To visually shorten the length of the balcony, you can install tall cabinets closed type. You can store flowers, books, candlesticks and other decorative items on light open shelving. You can give preference to combined structures, on which various things can be harmoniously placed.
Shelves on the balcony
Curtains for a balcony or loggia, textiles
Roman blinds, translucent tulles, blinds are great solution for a glazed balcony or loggia.
Furniture items
Wicker furniture with soft bedding, fluffy blankets and decorative pillows create special coziness and comfort on the balcony. You can make a bright accent in the interior with the help of good soft chair bright colors. A soft seat can easily be made from a floor cabinet or storage cabinet by placing pillows or blankets on top.
Compact coffee tables They take up little space and can be used to conveniently place not only coffee and tea utensils, but also other items.
Decorative elements and lighting
To create an atmosphere of comfort in the interior, you need to decorate it with decorative elements: paintings, posters, pillows, blankets, candlesticks and flowers.
It will be great if light is installed on the loggia in advance - ceiling and wall lamps. There is also an outlet for connecting a laptop or charging a phone. You will also need an outlet on the balcony if you plan to turn on the garland.
How to arrange plants on the balcony
Landscaping your balcony is another way to update and enliven your space.
If you have planters, you can update them by applying metal paint to the surface from a can.
If caring for fresh flowers is burdensome or time-consuming for you, you can decorate the space of your balcony or loggia with artificial plants that look stunningly beautiful and very similar to real ones.
To decorate your outdoor balcony, you can use a wicker basket, which will turn into a unique rustic lawn for colorful flowers.
Updated textiles - pillows and blankets for the balcony
Each needlewoman can independently make an original tablecloth by applying a simple design with bright colors to it. You can also buy ready-made original textile products.
A variety of textures in the interior, blankets with large knitted patterns, fur bedspreads, linen curtains and tablecloths.
Combination different materials always looks advantageous. The combination of warm and cold tones allows you to create a harmonious color balance.
When updating a balcony or loggia, be guided by your preferences, pay attention to fashion trends and do not neglect useful tips experts. You will succeed! A balcony or loggia will become a favorite place where you can work, for example, at the computer and relax with your favorite book, knitting, watching a movie, or just enjoy admiring the surrounding landscapes from the balcony...
Bright ideas for a balcony
Dressing table on the balcony
Table on the balcony
Desk on the loggia
Bed on the balcony
Chair on the balcony - photo
Swing on the balcony
Coffee table on the balcony
Doors to the balcony
Sofa and bench for balcony
Bar table on the loggia
Well, now you can start making all your fantasies come true. What purposes do you use your balcony for? Write to us!
Balcony or loggia in standard apartments occupy from 1.5 to 6 m² of area. How to use these meters rationally and is it possible to attach them to an apartment?
Transforming a loggia into an additional room is especially important for apartments in “putinki”, but in the old building there are also many layouts with small kitchens, living rooms and bedrooms, in which not a single square meter is superfluous. Even a narrow loggia or small balcony Due to thoughtful ergonomics and competent renovation, they are transformed into a functional living area.Mossebo designers will help you find an inspiring idea to create additional room on the loggia.
To join or not to join
Is it possible to dismantle the windows and balcony door? This is the first question that arises before anyone who has decided to functionally use a loggia in their living space. By adding a loggia, you can increase the area of the kitchen, living room or bedroom. On the one hand, this is great idea to expand the footage of the room, on the other hand, it is an extremely labor-intensive process and long coordination with officials.
It is difficult to say how difficult the process of approving redevelopment will be, since much will depend on the series of the house, building codes and the features of the connection project. Redevelopment, which involves dismantling the window and balcony door, it will be easier to implement legally than completely joining the loggia to the room, in which the window sill block and sometimes the walls are demolished. Permission for redevelopment must be obtained from a government agency, for this you will need to agree on all the details of the project and formalize necessary documents at the housing inspection.
When the balcony is fully connected, supervisory authorities will be required to assess the degree of safety of dismantling the partitions, and will also monitor compliance with the standards for insulation and moisture insulation. Besides, new part The rooms will need to be connected to the heating system. A significant limitation in this case will be the ban on moving radiators onto the loggia, so that the room will be heated either by a heated floor system or an electric radiator.
Without approval for joining the loggia, redevelopment is considered illegal and may lead to litigation and problems with the resale of the apartment. Complaints to government bodies may come from neighbors or from the management company. The cause of claims, as a rule, is freezing or getting wet sections of the wall. In such cases, the court decides not only to compensate the injured party for damages, but also to restore the original layout of the apartment.
As renovation and interior design specialists, Mossebo recommends that customers abandon the idea of completely combining a balcony with a living area in favor of saving budget, time and nerves. In addition, the loggia has one significant advantage - the possibility of privacy. This is an important factor for small living space, especially for a studio apartment, as well as an important condition for organizing a comfortable recreation area, study, bedroom or gym - any standard loggia can turn into one of these rooms.
Loggia interior ideaswithout connecting to the room
Recreation area
A loggia is a sacred place that connects the living space with the outside world. Even if the view from the windows leaves much to be desired, direct access to natural light and fresh air is already a good enough reason to turn these square meters into a cozy oasis for a relaxing holiday.
If the premises require year-round operation, full insulation is indispensable, but a summer recreation area can be arranged even on an uninsulated loggia.
The style in which the interior of the loggia will be decorated does not have to be in harmony with the overall style of the apartment. Additional square meters can turn, for example, into a chill-out zone in an Indian or Moroccan style, while the rest of the apartment will be decorated in European style.
When arranging a relaxation area on the loggia, you can safely experiment with styles. In such a space, various finishing materials would be appropriate: wood, plastic panels, decorative plaster, wallpaper, textiles or brick walls. Depending on the chosen style, the room can be furnished with soft, wicker or wooden furniture; in addition, a soft area can be easily arranged directly on the floor of the loggia using decorative pillows, blankets and mattress. Additional comfort to the room can be provided by a small canopy or canopy over the soft area.
The space can also accommodate a storage area, which does not necessarily require the installation of bulky cabinets. It’s worth trying to get by with open shelves or hiding storage space, for example, under an extended window sill, which will also serve as a tabletop. An original interior solution will be a window sill equipped with a bar counter, which will optimally fit into the space in the popular loft style.
Whatever style the recreation area is decorated in, it will always come in handy ornamental plants, custom lamps, cozy textiles and heated floors, which will allow you to comfortably spend time on the loggia even in the cold months of the year.
Office
Good access to daylight and fresh air is important for both comfortable rest and productive work. Workplace, including desk And office chair, will successfully fit even into the smallest footage. This will also house hanging shelves or vertical book shelves. If the area of the loggia allows, part of the footage not used for the office can be used as a storage room or a mini-rest area can be placed here.
When arranging a study on the loggia, you should remember high-quality insulation and sound insulation. Insulated walls, floor and ceiling will allow the office to be used all year round without the need for heaters. In this case, it is also worth considering a lighting system for comfortable work at any time of the day.
When arranging a workplace on a loggia, preference should be given to neutral color scheme, setting up for productive work, and ergonomic geometry.
Kitchen and dining room
The loggia can become a continuation of the kitchen area in the apartment even without a unifying redevelopment. The main task of the room in this case is to unload the kitchen, freeing up several precious square meters. The loggia can be used to accommodate kitchen furniture And household appliances, which does not require water and steam removal. Here you can place a refrigerator, microwave oven, kettle, multicooker, hanging cabinets. Under the countertop or bar counter, either a window sill on the loggia or a window sill facing the room can be equipped.
Arranging the kitchen on the loggia, walls can be tiled ceramic tiles, cover with washable wallpaper, plastic panels or water-based paint. The style and color scheme of the interior in this case should become a logical continuation of the style of the main kitchen.
The loggia can also be transformed into a small dining room. If the size of the room allows you to place a dining set for two or three people, install folding table on the wall opposite the windows or get by with the same window sill, equipped with a tabletop or bar counter. The latter option will allow you to enjoy the view while eating.
Gym
If you don’t want to spoil the interior of your apartment with bulky exercise equipment, convert the loggia into your own gym. Good ventilation natural light and the opportunity to enjoy the view from the window will be created optimal conditions for training at home.
The footage of a typical loggia, as a rule, allows you to install here at least an exercise bike and treadmill. Dumbbells, weights, hoops and other sports equipment will also find a place here. On load-bearing wall you can place a gymnastic wall and a horizontal bar. For a small loggia or balcony, folding exercise machines that do not take up much space are suitable.
Loggia interior in this case, it assumes a minimalist design, which can be executed either in neutral colors or using bright colors.
Children's corner
One more interesting idea For functional loggia– arrangement of a children's play area.Insulation of the loggiaand a heated floor system in this case are absolutely necessary measures to create a comfortable and safe children's corner. A high-pile carpet for playing on the floor would also be a good idea. Such a room can accommodate a system for storing toys, a Swedish wall, an ergonomic folding table for board games and activities, as well as soft corner, which can be equipped with a canopy - the child will certainly appreciate such a secret hiding place.
You can also install on the loggia hanging swing and even arrange a mini-sandbox. Non-standard lighting, for example, multi-colored lanterns or fancy night lights, will create a special fairy-tale atmosphere when it gets dark.
In such a space there is room not only for a bed, but also for a well-thought-out storage system, dressing table, mirror and TV installations.
Since the footage of the room is small, when installingbedrooms on the loggiaIt is undesirable to get carried away with active prints, bright colors and dark tones that visually conceal the space. In order to make a small bedroom visually more spacious, light colors, natural shades, cream and pastel colors, as well as laconic furnishings are suitable.
How to make a cozy balcony is a question many apartment owners ask. There are many ideas that will allow you to create a space that is not only comfortable, but also cozy, and it does not matter whether a person has a house or an apartment. A balcony or loggia can become a place where you can retire, do what you love, relax or spend time with friends. It all depends on the desire and imagination of the apartment owner.
How to make a balcony cozy and comfortable
Almost always, various unnecessary things are taken out to the balcony and loggia and stored there. You need to get rid of them first. After maximizing the space, it will be possible to think through further design.
To create a full-fledged living space, you should carry out:
- Glazing. It can be made of luxurious windows made of durable wood, functional and wear-resistant PVC euro-windows. Panoramic glazing of balconies looks elegant and beautiful. If the side is south, a sun protection film will not hurt.
- Waterproofing. Protects the space from aggressive weather conditions.
- Insulation. The ideal option is to insulate all surfaces: floor, walls, ceiling. Suitable material– polystyrene foam.
For small balconies and loggias, folding tables and chairs that are attached to the bases of the walls with supports can be used as furniture accessories. It is also convenient to use built-in and retractable structures.
You can make furniture yourself from available materials. Old ones will do too wooden boxes, which can be covered with a blanket.
The result is a comfortable and beautiful bench. An ottoman can be made from old ones plastic bottles, which are covered with a cover. Opportunities to use old unnecessary things and make them into original accessories- so many. The main thing is to use maximum imagination, and then a beautiful, cozy balcony will delight its owner.
Cozy balcony (video)
Cozy winter garden on the balcony: do-it-yourself green corner
A winter garden can be made from a glazed, insulated balcony covered with clapboard. Thus, the space will be as close to nature as possible, and the room will look cozy. Many even use balconies as greenhouses, growing vegetables and fruits. In this case, containers for growing flowers can be built independently or purchased in specialized stores.
An unglazed balcony has its advantages. You can hang special flower pots, hanging shelves and tables on the railing.
Arrange flowers on these accessories. It will work out original design. Another option is to secure the shelves with flower pots on the side walls of a balcony or loggia.
A place to relax: a cozy oasis in your apartment
Making a relaxation corner out of a balcony is also not difficult. Moreover, you can create an interior in a minimalist style. A carpet on the floor and 5-8 small pillows are enough. It will be a great space where you can have tea with friends. A hookah will add sophistication to the interior.
On the balcony you can put only two wicker chairs and a small palm tree. Coziness and comfort in such an environment are guaranteed. Small balconies do not need to be filled with furniture.
To refresh the space of small balconies, just add a few bright touches.
The ideal option is to use textiles, for example, lay a colored rug on the floor, and put several colorful pillows on the chairs.
Bright details will help create a summer mood.
We create with our own hands a place for an ideal vacation. What will you need? The answer is simple - a rocking chair or a hammock. This is an ideal place for reading books or drinking tea. If you plan to make the balcony as a relaxation area, plastic or wicker furniture is perfect in this case. Forged benches and tables look good. But they have the only drawback - the expensive price.
Design ideas:
- Many people install electric barbecues on balconies and loggias (if space allows, of course). Even in case of bad weather, you can enjoy delicious baked vegetables, meat, and fish on the weekend.
- Some owners of large balconies prefer to make the space a dining room. But in this case, it is necessary that the balcony be decorated from the inside accordingly.
- You can make your balcony-dining room cozy with the help of original decorative elements - artificial vegetables and fruits, beautiful kitchen-themed panels.
Men often make their balconies a minibar. A hanging table, folding chairs, a small TV on the wall - everything you need to watch football match with friends and beer.
Balcony - study
Balconies and loggias are ideal places to create a cozy working area, where a person can work calmly in a quiet environment. It is not even necessary to purchase special furniture for this, computer tables. It is enough to make several shelves, and one main one, which will serve as a tabletop. The only condition- This additional heating, because in winter neither people nor equipment should be overcooled. Decorative elements on the walls will help create coziness on the balcony.
They can be decorated with flower pots, paintings or family photographs.
Moreover, you can make a study not only for adults, but also for children, if the child’s room has access to a balcony. Thus, it will be convenient for the child to do his homework under daylight and you can save space in the children's room, while increasing the play area.
Creative area on the loggia
Many people are interested in painting, beadwork, sewing, and sculpting. From the balcony you can make a small but cozy and multifunctional creative workshop. It is possible to create shelves on the sides of the balcony from old boards. They contain everything you need for needlework and creativity. Even an easel will fit and will not interfere in the future, because it can always be folded and set aside.
Filled sunlight a small balcony and fresh air will become inspiration for creating new masterpieces.
Created works - drawings, embroidered panels, paintings - will add comfort and coziness to the atmosphere.
Small gym: is it realistic?
Even on a small balcony you can install a wall bars, a fitness machine, make drawers and shelves for weights, barbells, jump ropes, boxing gloves and paws. It doesn’t matter whether it’s narrow or not. Even standard small balconies are suitable for sports. Thus, in the rooms under your feet all the sports equipment will not get in the way, but will be collected in one place. To make the gym seem more comfortable, you can put photos of famous athletes on the walls. Flowers are clearly not suitable for decorating a sports room.
Balconies and loggias, decorated in a minimalist style, are ideal places for meditation and yoga. A big plus of training on balconies is fresh air.
Create an additional one on the balcony usable area and making it cozy is not at all difficult. Moreover, this can be done without spending extra money. You should check the mezzanine, basement in the garage - that is, places where old things, objects, and accessories can be stored.
How to make a gym on the balcony (video)
As can be seen from the article, using maximum imagination, you can use them to build excellent decorating accessories that will create a cozy atmosphere on the balcony or loggia.
Design of a cozy balcony (interior photo)
Attention, TODAY only!
Do you still use your balcony to store old sleds, skis and other junk that perhaps no one will ever use? Given the constant rise in real estate prices, such use of the square meters you own can hardly be called rational. How about getting rid of everything unnecessary and turning a balcony used as a smoking room or a place for drying clothes into a potential new space for an office, a home workshop, a place for short meals or even a summer bedroom? No matter how large our homes are, there is always not enough space. We bring to your attention a selection of interesting design projects for arranging balconies and loggias with a wide variety of functional purpose.
Where to start?
Before you turn precious 2-5 square meters into a cozy corner that will become your pride, you need to develop detailed plan actions. First of all, you need to decide whether your work on improving the balcony or loggia will be decorative (the structure remains open and only the facade is sheathed with finishing material) or constructive (the balcony must be glazed and insulated). The choice will depend on your personal preferences and expectations. Someone lives in the south of our country and has a magnificent view of the sea, opening directly from the balcony. It is enough to refine such a structure and create a place for dining with a gorgeous view of the seascape. And someone doesn't glass balcony will be covered with snow most of the year and its improvement will require a considerable amount of action taken. But, first things first.
We design an open balcony
Having the opportunity to be in the fresh air without leaving your own home is a great idea for those who live in the southern part of our country. From the point of view of façade design open balcony, the owners don’t have many options. In addition to the traditional cladding of the fence, you can decorate the structure with original forging and living plants. It all depends on how the facade of your apartment building and whether you want to join the existing options for designing your own parapet or stand out from the general background.
In modern apartment buildings most often you can find a durable metal frame with inserts made of transparent, translucent or molded plastic all kinds of color solutions (as a rule, the tone is selected for a harmonious combination with the color of the building facade). To create an original image of an open balcony, you can use a forged frame created using individual order. In any case, before planning to reconstruct the appearance of an open balcony, find out whether the building has historical value and whether residents are allowed to design the parapets at their own discretion.
An excellent way to decorate a balcony in the case of open design may be the use of living plantings. In order to preserve as much as possible all the available internal space of the balcony for placing furniture, use the following devices for placing plants:
- flowers are located along the side of the railing;
- living decor is located at the base of the fence;
- at the end of the balcony you can use a cascade or stepped arrangement;
- for climbing plants ideal option there will be bars that are attached to the walls on both sides of the doors.
Obviously, the decorative approach to decorating a balcony is a seasonal event, designed for warm, dry weather. Therefore, all elements of the furniture should be mobile, light and preferably foldable. Choose compact garden furniture, which is not afraid of various types of influences - from moisture to sunburn. And be prepared for the fact that in case of strong wind and rain you will need to bring textile elements (pillows, removable seats, blankets, etc.) inside your home. In the design of a closed balcony there are much more design variations and functional content– let’s look at them in more detail.
General list of works for a closed balcony
So, if you decide to convert the external part of your home into an additional living space and have already decided on its functional purpose, then the following types of work await you:
- mandatory assessment of the condition of the balcony - slabs and fences;
- glazing of the structure;
- insulation, waterproofing with preliminary elimination of all cracks;
- in some cases, this is followed by dismantling the balcony block (depending on the reconstruction option);
- work on laying electrical systems;
- leveling (filling) of walls and floors (may be absent - it all depends on the types of finishing work);
- finishing;
- arrangement of furniture and accessories;
- decorating a new room.
Balcony glazing
There are two types of glazing: “cold and warm”. The so-called “cold” glazing is used if a balcony or loggia simply needs to be protected from moisture and dust, but there is no provision for organizing an additional room there to perform any functions. With this type of glazing, one of the following options for constructing transparent structures is usually used:
- “frameless” method - the barrier looks like a solid glass sheet. In fact, parts of the transparent wall can move along horizontal tracks to open and close windows;
- wooden swing doors;
- sliding or tilt-and-turn structures with a metal-plastic profile.
If you need to implement “warm” glazing, then the option of using plastic double glazed windows – best way creating high-quality heat and sound insulation. Very often in such cases, the technique of moving the frames 15-25 cm beyond the plane of the facade is used to slightly expand the area of the balcony. A feeling of spaciousness and a fairly wide window sill, which can be used as work surface– a great bonus for the owners.
From the point of view of decor and adding originality to the design of the balcony due to the glazing stage, you can use tinted glass, stained glass, products with laser engraving or photo printing. Depending on design solutions, such decor can be used either fragmentarily or for the entire surface of the protective glass barrier. Modern double-glazed windows can be made with any color scheme frames, imitate any type of wood. The original appearance of the glazing is the key to creating a non-trivial image of a balcony or loggia.
Installation of insulation and waterproofing
This stage of work must be approached with full responsibility - do not skimp on materials or specialist fees. Poor installation of thermal and waterproofing can subsequently negate everything finishing work, lead to damage to the furniture and ultimately return you to your original position with the need to redo the repair. Minor savings at this stage of work can result in significant reconstruction costs and loss of time.
Polystyrene foam is most often used as insulation for floors; polystyrene foam or technoplex is used for walls and ceilings. Any insulation is installed only after all cracks have been eliminated and processed. To create a vapor barrier, recently foamed polyethylene is most often used, which is laid with the shiny side inward. Next, it will be possible to install lathing on the surface to create a surface finish.
Most effective way insulation of the loggia - installation of the so-called “warm floor”. One of the most affordable ways to install the system is infrared film flooring. In such a room it will be really warm and comfortable at any time of the year. Temperature control modes will allow you to independently set the microclimate of the additional room.
Electrical installation work
The amount of wiring work will depend on the expected number of lighting sources and the ones used. household appliances on the balcony, the presence of " heated floors» and whether the loggia is being renovated in conjunction with the main renovation of the apartment or not. If the reconstruction affected only the balcony, then you can not complicate the process and limit yourself to a regular extension cord, having previously calculated the required cross-section taking into account the maximum load.
The number of light sources will directly depend on what you expect from the balcony or loggia. If this is a place for breakfast and rare evening romantic dinners overlooking the cityscape, then one lamp or built-in lighting will be enough. If the additional room will be used as an office, workshop or children's play area, then one light source will not be enough. The number of lamps is also influenced by the size of the balcony and its location relative to the cardinal directions.
Finishing work
Choice finishing materials directly depends on the general idea of using the auxiliary premises. But, regardless of how you will use the balcony or loggia (create a winter garden or install exercise equipment), there is a list of the most popular finishing options suitable for the special microclimate of the additional space:
- MDF panels;
- PVC finishing panels;
- Moisture-resistant plasterboard is perfect for eliminating unevenness and creating sheathing, niches and other structures;
- cork covering (creates excellent heat and sound insulation);
- decorative plaster;
- artificial stone;
- painting;
- combination various materials to create an original and durable coating.
The choice of material for creation flooring is influenced by the presence of a “warm floor” system, but in general, any modern raw material can be used:
- ceramic or stone tiles;
- floor board (parquet);
- laminate;
- linoleum;
- carpet
Speaking of choice color palette, then it is obvious that in a modest-sized room, light shades will look much more organic, allowing you to visually expand the space. But, on the other hand, if all your furniture and decor of the balcony (loggia) is made in light colors, then you can choose more colorful colors for the background.
Examples of using a balcony for various premises
Only at first glance it may seem that the limited space of the balcony significantly reduces the list possible options use of this additional space. The modern owner has not used this utilitarian room as a storage room for a long time, but arranges there an office, a workshop, a greenhouse, a children's area, a playroom for adults with billiards, a gym, a hookah lounge, a place for meals and even a bedroom.
In order to place a complete and functional environment on several square meters with a specific geometry, it is necessary to resort to various options design techniques. It's not just about visual extension space due to the use light finish, mirror, glossy and glass surfaces, but also the installation of compact furniture (usually custom-made custom sizes), maximum floor clearance - folding furniture, shelving and consoles that are attached to the walls.
A place for dining is one of the most popular options for using a balcony or loggia. If your balcony opens great view on the city landscape or, better yet, from the windows you can see the sunrise or sunset; it would be unforgivable not to take advantage of such a wonderful opportunity. The width of some loggias allows you to install a compact dining table, while in others you have to be content with a bar counter or a narrow console (most often an extension of the window sill). Installing a compact round (oval) table or folding panel can also be an effective technique.
Another popular solution is to organize a corner for reading and relaxation on a balcony or loggia. It’s logical to install shelving for your home library and create a comfortable place to read books in a light-filled room. Even if the balcony glazing has frames, there will still be enough natural light for comfortable seating. In this case, in addition to shelves with books, you will need to install a pair of comfortable armchairs or a compact sofa or ottoman.
In order to organize a modern office, you need very little usable space. It is precisely these modest dimensions that a balcony or loggia has. A small console can be used as a work surface (modern laptops or computer screens take up little space), a comfortable adjustable chair and a pair of hanging shelves for storing documents and office supplies.
One of the most popular options for organizing storage systems in balcony spaces is the installation of shelving. Even a shallow shelving unit, mounted from floor to ceiling, allows you to arrange a huge number of household items. At the same time, the structure does not look massive due to the absence of facades.
Built-in wardrobes are no less popular. But given that in a small area it is necessary to install a storage system from floor to ceiling, it is better to give preference to light wood species. It would not be amiss to use glass and mirror surfaces - they will help lighten the image of the cabinet.
Even a small space under the balcony window sill can be used rationally. Shallow shelves hidden behind sliding doors can accommodate a large number of necessary small items.
It is effective to use corner sofas as seating areas, under the seats of which there are spacious storage systems. For small-width balconies, you can use similar, but only linear models.
The balcony is an ideal place to use homemade household items. For example, from construction pallets you can design benches and sofas, tables and stands, shelving and other storage systems, even beds. Thus, you can not only save significantly, but also create a truly unique image of an additional room.
But in modern design projects there are also completely unusual options for using the available square meters. Gym, or rather a mini-room, laundry, Finnish sauna or a Russian steam room - far from it full list creative ideas. But it is important to understand that in order to organize many such original projects Not only will large resources be required, but also appropriate permits.
