Glass Juliet Balconies. Juliette Balconies

Balcony's sophisticated balustrading solutions offer an inspirational alternative to conventional structural glazing systems. At around a third to half the cost, the proven system meets all the challenges of beauty, safety and value to retain a clear panoramic scenic outlook.

Strong and simple to install, the maintenance-free system allows greater freedom of design to enhance all property styles as a more aesthetic alternative to bars or railings. It is a uniquely different solution that does not require structural glass or posts as the aluminium hand-railing provides the required strength and support.

Commenting on the Balcony product, Unicoin's Construction Director Mike Taaffe says: "It looks good and complements the style of the building's exterior. Balconies are always an appealing feature as they add another dimension to the accommodation. The use of glass has the added advantages of retaining views and allowing more light into the rooms.

"As a balustrading solution, we're very pleased with the overall effect and a system we would consider using again in the future," he adds.

Sales Director for Unicoin Homes Group, Simon Sturt comments: "As well as enhancing the value and saleability of the apartments, the glass balconies also make them more attractive for the purchaser."

All external and Juliette balconies use 6063 T5 extruded aluminium balustrade, available in bronze, silver satin or any RAL colour finishes.

A shortage of homes is keeping Jersey's builders busy, with some 400 new apartments a year being built - many on reclaimed or previously-developed land - to meet demand. Changes in the hotel industry mean a number of hotels are being converted into luxury apartments, many with large balconies.

For example, the former Seacrest Hotel site at St Brelade has been transformed into eight apartments with glass balconies measuring up to 20 metres by 10 metres. As well as retaining spectacular sea views, the clear glass panels also offer protection from sea breezes.

As inherently strong materials, glass and aluminium open up exciting creative design possibilities for straight and curved glass balconies, with minimal need for vertical or corner posts.

The Balcony system allows for greater distancing between the vertical uprights than other systems," explains Tom. "So for an eight-metre wide balcony, only three posts would be needed - compared to six or more posts with other systems - enabling the beauty of the glass to shine through."

Handrails are available in a choice of finishes to suit property styles and colour schemes; powder-coated white or anodized silver, bronze or 'Royal Chrome', which replicates the look of stainless steel, but without the discolouration problems.

Tom concludes: "Balcony is a very responsive and reactive company with an original, yet practical product that really appeals to the Jersey market. The company's commitment to excellent customer service enables us to offer the same to our discerning customers."

According to Renaissance Living, the elegance and simplicity of Balcony's "Balconette" Juliette Balcony system provides the secure 1.1 metre high balustrade to satisfy Building Regulations, but without any 'visually intrusive' bars and "at very reasonable comparative cost."

The company adds: "Balcony's systems have enabled us to make our original vision a reality - particularly as they occupy such highly visible positions, making them a key factor in the overall appearance of the development."

Balcony also provided the technical advice and design criteria for curved balconies and curved sliding patio door access for two large penthouse apartments. "Having discussed the technical aspects with Balcony and learned about the curved sliding door system, which again was very reasonably priced, we had our solution," explains Dave Higgins, Projects Director at Wiggett Construction. "Up to then, we had not been able to find an answer to the structural curves in glass/aluminium on the British market."

Curved glass balustrading supplied by Balcony Systems also fulfilled the safety requirements for a large opening with curved ends in the first floor of the communal area, giving a visual interlink with ground floor lounge below.

"Minimum visual interference, minimum structural supports and curved glass were again the defining factors. Balcony's solution is both aesthetically satisfying and achieved considerable economies on other quoted systems - none of which could deal with the curves. Balcony's installation teams also integrated well with the contract programme and we are extremely satisfied with the company's contribution to this successful project," adds Dave.

"Balcony also advised us on some of the technical aspects and the whole system was very straightforward to install. The result is visually stunning. With the added benefit of no maintenance, the balustrading fits perfectly with our philosophy to deliver quality homes that offer the ability to 'lock and go' with confidence," says Tim.

From a developer's point of view, Tim highlights the significant advantage of fixing the glass panels from the inside. If a panel should need replacing in the future, this can be done easily and safely from the balcony itself, rather than hiring costly and time-consuming scaffolding or 'cherry pickers'.

Tim adds: "Recent changes to the Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2007 put the onus on builders and designers to incorporate greater health and safety considerations into what they build.

"The Balcony system addresses the long-term practicalities and maintenance issues to ensure compliance with the regulations, providing peace of mind for all from the outset. This is a real plus, as no one wants to go back to a job if things go wrong!"

Comprising a galvanised steel structure supporting timber floor joists and decking, the £6,000 balcony was constructed in just four days. A 'lightweight' solution with a thin profile, as opposed to traditional bulky brick pillars, was chosen to preserve light to the new master bedroom below.

John and the carpenter installed the balcony balustrade in a single day. "Installation was very straightforward, even for two 'inexperienced novices', but the results are wonderful," enthuses John.

At around a third to half the cost of structural glazing, the Balcony balustrading system is a cost-effective and aesthetic alternative. Instead of posts and structural glass, the aluminium hand-railing provides all the required strength and support, meeting all the relevant Building Regulations.

"With easy access from the kitchen, it is just as easy to serve a meal outside as it is inside," concludes Julie. "The balcony has utterly changed the way we use our house, as well as giving us a completely new perspective on the garden. Drinks on the balcony, watching the sunset has now become a standard feature of our life."

"The secure balustrading structure meant it easily withstood the worst of the January storms when wind speeds gusted up to 100mph! The system is ideal for a coastal environment as being aluminium and glass, no painting is required. And of course, we have a much clearer view of the sea."

Clive added: "We are really delighted. I think we have the best balconies in the area. The simplicity of the system is its beauty."

For example, the former Seacrest Hotel site at St Brelade has been transformed into eight apartments with glass balconies measuring up to 20 metres by 10 metres. As well as retaining spectacular sea views, the clear glass panels also offer protection from sea breezes.

As inherently strong materials, glass and aluminium open up exciting creative design possibilities for straight and curved glass balconies, with minimal need for vertical or corner posts.

The Balcony system allows for greater distancing between the vertical uprights than other systems," explains Tom. "So for an eight-metre wide balcony, only three posts would be needed - compared to six or more posts with other systems - enabling the beauty of the glass to shine through."

Handrails are available in a choice of finishes to suit property styles and colour schemes; powder-coated white or anodized silver, bronze or 'Royal Chrome', which replicates the look of stainless steel, but without the discolouration problems.

Tom concludes: "Balcony is a very responsive and reactive company with an original, yet practical product that really appeals to the Jersey market. The company's commitment to excellent customer service enables us to offer the same to our discerning customers."

BALCONY SOLUTION FOR IRISH MARKET

Balustrading specialist Balcony Systems Ltd has successfully launched its no-maintenance, affordable glass and aluminium balcony solutions to the Irish market with the appointment of Northern Ireland-based Senator Windows as its sole distributor for the island.

"Balcony's support is second-to-none, so nothing is ever a problem," continues Gordon. "Feedback from clients on the product has been fantastic; everyone loves it. Instead of looking at the balcony, they can see through it and, of course, that is a big bonus for enjoyment of the scenery."

Looking to the future, Gordon predicts refurbishment of existing balconies will be a growing market, particularly around the popular resort areas of Portrush, Portmore and Portstewart where the balustrading materials on some recently-built holiday homes and apartments are already succumbing to the demanding marine environment.

"Many painted and galvanised steel Juliette balconies, which were installed around four years ago, are already showing signs of corrosion and in need of serious maintenance," explains Gordon. "The beauty of the Balcony system is that it is easy to install and only requires an occasional wipe clean to keep it looking good for years to come."

Developers PRH Construction chose the Balcony system for its clean lines and corrosion-resistance. It was installed on the last 11 apartments recently completed at Portmore, near Portrush. The complex of over 80 apartments stands just yards from the sea. Managing Director Raymond Henry says owners of earlier steel balconies, which have suffered discolouration and corrosion, have already expressed an interest in the smart new ones.

"Being glass and aluminium, the Balcony system is well-suited for its purpose and we're very pleased with it. Indeed, we're planning to use it on our next development nearby," he adds.

Complementing the doors are curved windows to two bedrooms above, again following the wall's curving line. Completing the theme is a curved glass balcony off the master bedroom. No-maintenance clear glass keeps the harbour views beyond.

The contemporary interpretation of original 1930s styling, seen in some of the neighbouring homes in the area, also features a dramatic curved glass entrance and hallway that spans the full two-storey height of the house. This 'entrance drum' comprises a quarter-circle of curved glass curtain walling, also supplied by Balcony Systems. All the low-maintenance extruded aluminium polyester powder-coated profiles are finished in a RAL 7000 shade of grey.

Homeowner and property developer, Nigel Slydell says: "The Balcony system attracted my interest because it is the only one in the UK that could supply exactly what I was looking for. It has certainly exceeded my expectations in delivering the aesthetics for the house. In addition, the curved glass provides some really interesting reflections of the outside scenery that change with the varying light levels."

Achieving smooth curves, rather than using a 'traditional' alternative such as a faceted design, was a crucial factor in the specification of the Balcony system, according to architect Jeffrey Douglas, of Jeffrey Douglas Chartered Architect.

"Curved glass is a major feature of this stunning house and what the Balcony system has brought is absolutely key to the overall design and aesthetics. Before we discovered Balcony, we were unable to find anything comparable on the UK market. We are absolutely delighted with the result," says Jeffrey.

"Curved glass doors and windows lend a much more refined and elegant appearance as they follow the flowing lines of the southern elevation and entrance. The effect would not have been the same using a faceted method," he adds.

The Balcony Visio Glide 100 system with curved glazed units was specified for the doors. It is manufactured to exacting tolerances for straightforward installation, durability and ease of use.

Balcony's technologically-advanced, yet affordable patio door system suits curved openings of virtually any size and radius, making it ideal for newbuild and renovation projects. Available in any colour, the system allows for configurations of two, three, four and six panels in various sliding and fixed combinations, offering myriad creative opportunities.

Balcony also offers full technical advice and a back-up service, along with a step-by-step installation guide on the website at www.balconette.co.uk

Email: enquiries@balconette.co.uk

Tel: 01342 410411

Fax: 01342 410412

In the middle of 2010 Balcony Systems launched a new added benefit to its range of products - a nano coating that is silica based and is factory applied. This application creates a sort of "self-cleaning" coating on the glass that makes the glass super smooth and water repellant.

Hundreds of clients have already enjoyed the benefit of this product applied to their order. Balcony regularly contacts customers to get after sales feedback and make sure the client is satisfied with what they have purchased. We are receiving 100% positive feedback on the coating and here are just a few comments:

"By modifying two standard upstairs windows in our 1990s home to create French Doors with glass Juliette balconies, we can take full advantage of glorious countryside views. Whether standing or seated our field of vision now extends from our garden below through to the distant horizon and the sky. This has improved the look and our use of the house tremendously, particularly as our principal reception rooms are on the first floor. We are very pleased with the Balcony System and absolutely delighted with how the new full length windows with their glass Juliette balconies have worked out. We were hoping that the balconies' aluminium top members would not appear obtrusive and any concerns have proved unfounded.

"The self-cleaning glass is a bonus - when a passing bird left a deposit, it was easier to wipe down afterwards! As we were originally planning to have a wrought iron balcony, having seen the excellent result in glass we're very glad we went down that route."

Mr. N.S. Droxford, Hampshire

"The self-cleaning glass does stay very clean. In the four months since the Juliette balcony was installed, I've not had to clean it. This glass was added half-way through the ordering process and I'm glad I've got it.

Living in a woodland situation, the air tends to be damper so the special coating on the glass that makes it resist water will certainly reduce maintenance to keep the balcony looking good."

Mr. P.M. Taunton, Somerset

"We're very happy with and have no complaints at all. We've had a lot of work done on the house and, despite this, the Juliette balcony with self-cleaning glass is keeping very clean."

Mr. N.D. Blaenau Gwent

"Self-cleaning glass was part of the specification for the Juliette balconies, so the fact we were able to source such a product was key for us. They will be installed on new apartments in the early part of 2011."

Mr. C.B. Tyne and Wear

The introduction of a self-cleaning glass coating option is proving popular with Juliette balcony and balustrading customers, especially for those living in coastal or city environments.

This maintenance-reducing benefit was the key reason why Mr. and Mrs. Jones chose the Balcony Systems Juliette balcony for their new-build home at Harlech, North Wales.

"The self-cleaning glass definitely influenced our choice of balustrading as our house is in an elevated position overlooking the sea," comments Rhian. "It's very windy so we often get fine salty and grainy deposits carried in the air. This glass certainly helps to reduce the amount of cleaning we have to do - leaving us more time to enjoy the view."

She adds: "Not only does the Juliette balcony look great from the inside and outside, it's easy to look after too."

"Overall we are very pleases with the results and the market reactions with this introduction" says Mr. Effi Wolff, Managing Director of Balcony Systems. "We believe in always pushing forward and improving our service and products; the introduction of the self-cleaning coating is a substantial milestone in the market of glass railings and glass doors"

The coating is available on every one of Balcony Systems' products - namely custom glass balustrades, glass Juliet balconies and curved sliding patio doors and is applied to both sides of the glass.

Balcony Systems' self-cleaning glass balustrade keeps canal views.

When a Cheshire householder added a wraparound terrace to her canalside home, she turned to Balcony Systems for the low-maintenance 39-metre curved and straight glass balustrading solution to keep the views.

"I wanted the beautiful look of glass balustrading and to keep any cleaning chores to an absolute minimum," explained Lynda. "I had heard about self-cleaning glass technology and that's why I specified Balcony's self-cleaning coated glass.
"It really does work; I simply hose it down regularly and any dirt just washes off the glass and greatly reduces maintenance. Clear glass was important for me, as I wanted to retain views of the narrowboats on the Cheshire Ring canal system from the terrace. The balustrading looks excellent and I am very pleased with it," she added.

The couple's architect, Mark Kingsley, of Mark Kingsley Architects Ltd, worked closely with Balcony's design team to create the complex dimensions, sharp angles and watertight specifications for the balustrade, which follows the contours of garages underneath the terrace.

Mark, who also assisted with the concept design of the dwelling, commented: "The balcony arrangement was complex due to its irregular geometric shape. However, the resultant installation through design development with Balcony Systems was spot on. The end result has been well received and is elegant."

Tanya added: ""Balcony Systems worked exceptionally well in delivering a complicated design for a competitive price and the balcony looks fabulous. It's the perfect place with shelter from the wind from which to enjoy cream teas - and the splendid view!"

Designed by Jersey-based Naish Waddington architects and built by AC Mauger Construction, Chateau Valeuse took third place in the 'Best Large-Scale Development' category at the 2011 Jersey Design Awards.

For Naish Waddington, clear glass balustrading was a key design element. 'The strong semi-circular balconies are sculptural, dramatic and functional. The horizontality of the South Elevation is emphasised by the continuation of these balconies which span towards the central element. Chateau Valeuse is a calm, refined, modernist building, set within a landscape that evokes its seaside setting'.

Project Architect Bruno Francisco commented: "Balcony Systems was able to provide a cost-effective frameless curved balustrading solution to ensure uninterrupted sea views. We were able to achieve this with semi-circular projecting balconies using the handrail as the structural tie without the need for vertical intermediate posts"

Managing Director of Balcony Systems, Effi Wolff said: "As this impressive project shows, curved or straight panels, or a combination of both, can deliver the architect's vision for an aesthetically-driven balustrading solution that is as visually stunning as it is practical."

Balcony Systems is a specialist in sophisticated glass and aluminium balustrading solutions and stunning curved patio doors, supplying straight or curved external and Juliet balconies to exact client specifications.

From single balustrades to multi-apartment developments, the company works with architects, designers and specifiers to deliver the most cost-effective, stylish and durable balustrade solution.

Two further straight external glass balconies provide additional outdoor space while keeping clear views to the grounds from the master bedroom and a first-floor office.

David Groucott, Director of Suffolk-based developers Encompass Project Management Ltd selected Balcony Systems for their ability to supply the required glazed elements that met the demands of the building's unusual and contemporary design.

He said: "Not only do the Balcony products work extremely well on this highly-individual property; they also deliver the required design criteria very cost-effectively making them excellent value for money. The curved patio doors from the pool room, in particular, make a statement that adds to the overall impact and enjoyment of living in this home for the client and his family."

Louise Knight of LSI Architects commented: "It's the first time we had worked with Balcony Systems and they delivered to the required timescales as well as produced additional items, such as extra handrails, at the client's request. This is a project to be proud of and we will include them in future quotations."

Completed in 2012, the new property replaced an original 1940s house on the site and took two years to build. It was developed on sustainable design principles to achieve Code for Sustainable Homes Level 4 and incorporates a ground source heating system to provide heating and hot water for the building and pool.

Balcony Systems is a specialist in sophisticated glass and aluminium balustrading solutions and stunning curved patio doors. Straight or curved external and Juliet balconies are supplied to exact client specifications - from single balustrades to multi-apartment developments - delivering a cost-effective, stylish and durable balustrade solution

The couple selected Balcony's products as they offered an affordable balcony system that would complement the curves on the rest of the property. Balcony Systems, one of the UK's leading glass balustrading specialists, was also the only company they found that could offer a good quality curved glass solution for both their balcony and patio door needs.

"Their solutions and the minimal posts provided a clean, continuous flow of glass and allowed us to maximise the sea views. We didn't want anything blocking the fabulous views,"

The owner added: "Balcony's products have brought our paper design of curved glass alive and the company has been helpful after the installation. Without these products, we would have ended up with dull flat runs of glass. Balcony has allowed us to realise our design dreams - and everybody loves a curve!"

The curved patio doors and balustrading elements were installed by Chris Wedgwood, Managing Director of Jurby-based Hamilton Project Management Ltd and incorporated as part of extensive remodelling to the substantial 920s building, perched on a steep site in Tower Road.

Five years of construction work included rebuilding and extending the southern elevation and roofing over what was an outdoor swimming pool.

Following the shape of a second lower terrace next to the swimming pool are nearly 40 metres of Balcony's curved and straight balustrading, topped with an anodised silver handrail. Above this terrace, three glass Juliet balconies supplied by Balcony Systems maintain clear views from guest rooms on two upper floors.

Having holidayed on the Isle of Man for many years, the couple moved there from the UK in 2006 having fallen in love with The Arches' spectacular coastal location. The B&B opened for business in 2011.

Philip, from Liverpool, explained: "The incredible views inspired all the glass as the whole point was to maximise the pleasure from them. It's unusual to have 180 degrees of such splendour - and the curved patio door from Balcony Systems really does it justice. Everyone is stunned when they see it and it adds so much to the value and enjoyment of the property.

He added: "As the house is located near to the sea, that's great for the views but a real challenge to the materials used to enable us to enjoy them to the full. After four or five years of installation, the finishes on our Balcony products are like new.

"The curved patio door performs well; it's thermally-efficient, air and watertight, even during the wild weather we get sometimes. It's so central to what we wanted to achieve. There's no product like it and it really brings the outside in!"

Project architect John Cryer, of Marshall Cryer Architects said an initial triangular design for the lounge was adapted into a more space-efficient curve after consultation with Balcony Systems.

He said: "The curved door is a remarkable product, making the most of the space and views while turning an ordinary room into something much better. This site is so suited to this product. So many sites on the island have good views that would benefit from products like those from Balcony Systems. I would definitely use their products again."

According to Chris Wedgwood, it's the combination of Balcony's three different products that work really well at The Arches. "The curved patio door undoubtedly gives the house its 'Wow' factor and makes the most of the views. The structural glass balustrade is a fantastic answer for uninterrupted views. They're all good quality, well-thought out products."

Balcony Systems is a specialist in sophisticated glass and aluminium balustrading solutions and stunning curved patio doors, supplying straight or curved external and Juliet balconies to exact client specifications.