Often, not everyone will be able to give an answer to the question of what a French balcony looks like.

However, almost everyone saw him at least once.

Translated from French, the name literally sounds like "a door with a window." In fact, this is how it looks.

And with an ordinary door and window, a similar design differs in the presence of a forged lattice instead of a parapet.

Previously, all balconies were called the French balcony, which is a narrow protruding area for one person with a wrought iron parapet. Usually they carried the function of airing the apartment.

Let's consider modern French-type balconies in more detail, let's talk about their positive and negative qualities, as well as the nuances that need to be foreseen when installing such a balcony.

What are balconies of this type?

Let's first understand the appearance of these atypical designs.

Now French are mainly called balconies, glazed with panoramic windows from top to bottom with a transition to a small ledge with a fence in the form of a lattice, most often forged. Outwardly, such balconies have a slightly curved shape.

Such a structure does not carry certain tasks.

French balconies

Since the site is small, the balcony is not used as a storage room or for the purpose of arranging a living area. But on the other hand, such a balcony looks very original, and will decorate the building well.

And if you love indoor plants, then you are doubly led - here they can be placed in a huge amount, which will also decorate the building and allow you to enjoy a pleasant evening in this small greenhouse.

Positive and negative traits

Like all balconies, a French-style balcony has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Most often, its advantages are considered:

1) no additional costs are required for the installation of handrails, finishing work and strengthening work;

2) no external finishing of the balcony is required;

3) no insulation and inner lining of the balcony is required;

4) visual expansion of the balcony space with the achievement of its maximum illumination;

5) a panoramic window is created;

6) no need for welding during installation;

7) saving the budget when purchasing finishing materials;

8) a lot of design options.

But there are also disadvantages:

1) the design does not provide for the presence of a window sill;

2) reinforcement of the concrete slab is required;

3) additional ventilation is required in summer and additional heating in winter;

4) high cost;

5) the complexity of leaving, because wet cleaning of a large glass surface is necessary.

Parameters of French balconies

The main parameters are the width and height of the balcony, the presence of a mosquito net, drainage system and so on.

In addition, it is important to take into account the material from which the balcony is made, its quality, properties and color.

To reduce the weight of the balcony, aluminum profiles are most often used. True, they are more expensive than other options, and their thermal and sound insulation performance is much lower. One of the main characteristics of glazing is the number of sashes in the windows, depending on the measurements and the required final result.

Glazing doors are hinged (opening outward), deaf (not opening at all) and partially opening.

The choice depends on you and on the structure of the double-glazed windows. Also consider the finish of the facade on which the balcony will be installed and the installation height.

Variety of types

French-style balconies are found in different types.

More often than others, there is a balcony in the form of a glazed door with a fence outside or inside it. Another option is a balcony with a small concrete ledge, most often supported by a decorative cornice. This is the traditional option.

Balconies also differ in the way they are connected to the load-bearing wall.

Fastenings are point (with little use of metal parts), using a pipe profile and using a metal profile fixed directly to the bearing wall.

In any case, how your balcony will look is up to you. You can install additional handrails or a wrought iron parapet, or you can simply choose panoramic glazing in the entire wall.

French balcony installation

Installation of this type of balcony is not an easy process, so it is better to entrust it to specialists.

The installation process itself takes place in several steps.

If the installation occurs for the first time, then first of all you need to measure the installation site and inspect the finishing elements. The installation of such a balcony will take less time than the installation of a traditional balcony, especially since welding and finishing works are not required here.

To install a French balcony, you will have to install a reinforcing profile and reinforcement elements along with the metal-plastic structure. These balconies are securely fastened thanks to a special mounting technology.

In addition, you can convert an ordinary balcony into a French one.

To do this, you need to remove the concrete parapet or metal fence.

It is preferable to choose profiles made of aluminum, since they have sliding doors, which is very convenient.

True, such glazing is much more expensive than metal-plastic. Choose 2-chamber insulating glass units with energy-efficient glass to improve the thermal insulation of the room.

Moreover, there is a lot of glass in this design, so the balcony will need good insulation.

It is also possible to install balconies with partial glazing, in which glazing is installed at the top of the balcony, and sandwich panels at the bottom. This design does not require insulation and finishing.

It is better to choose double-glazed windows with maximum strength. This design is more practical and safe, especially if your family has children.

Glazing, transparent only from the inside, would be an excellent choice. It will perfectly hide everything that happens in the room from prying eyes.

French balconies are becoming more and more popular. If you like to admire the beautiful view directly from the apartment, then this type of balcony is just for you.

The French balcony will emphasize your sense of taste, add elegance and aesthetics to the apartment.

They are suitable even for private houses and perfectly decorate them.

So add a balcony with a wrought iron parapet to the facade, and then decorate it with a small flower garden and get a chic decor of the whole house, affordable for many and at a low cost.

Video - forged French balcony

Many people do not have the slightest idea of ​​what a French balcony is. However, almost everyone has seen such a structure at least once in their life. A French-style balcony is called a portfolio, which from the original language means a door and a window. This is exactly the type of design that has a similar design. Only from an ordinary door or window does it differ in the forged design of the lattice - the fence.

Previously, French balconies were called narrow protruding platforms with a wrought-iron fence, on which only one person could stand. Also, such structures served as a kind of ventilation for the room.

What is a French balcony and what is it for?

Today the French balcony is usually called panoramic windows from the ceiling to the floor, which have access to a small area with a lattice fence. From the side, the French balcony looks like a volumetric basket due to its curved shape.

Such a structure does not perform any essential functions. Due to the small size of the site, the balcony cannot be fully used for storing things or relaxing. In addition, airing the premises today is carried out in a completely different way. However, the balcony is a rather original decorative decoration of the building. And for lovers of indoor plants - this is just a godsend. Indeed, on such a balcony you can place a considerable number of flowerpots with flowers and other plants that can be an excellent decoration for the facade.

Buildings equipped with French balconies look very elegant, graceful and attractive. It is much more pleasant to admire the beautiful landscape outside the window from such a balcony.

Advantages and disadvantages of a French balcony

Like any design, a French balcony has its own advantages and a number of disadvantages. The main virtues are:

• Absence additional costs for the installation of a parapet, its subsequent finishing and strengthening.
• There is no need to sheathe the outer part of the balcony with siding or corrugated board.
• The French balcony does not require internal insulation and cladding.
• The design visually expands the space and fills the room with an additional stream of light.
• Creation exclusive panoramic window.
• Lack of welding during installation.
• Saving money on the purchase of materials for interior decoration.
• Many options for decorating.

TO disadvantages designs include:

• Lack of a window sill. Although this disadvantage is compensated by the absence of excess dust.
• The frame of the French balcony must be equipped amplifying elements.
• A room with a French balcony is required additionally ventilate hot summer, as the flow of direct sunlight into the huge panoramic windows is strong enough. Conversely, in the cold season, the room must be additionally heated.
• The installation price of such a structure is relatively high.
• Needs to be washed large area glass surface.

Technical characteristics of the French balcony

The technical characteristics include the parameters of the depth and width of the balcony, the presence of mosquito nets, drainage and other additional structural elements. The material of manufacture, its color and quality are also taken into account. If there is a need for lightweight construction, then you should definitely use an aluminum profile.

However, such an option is more expensive in cost and much worse in terms of heat and sound insulation properties than the metal-plastic option. The main characteristic is the number of window sashes, which depends on the area of ​​the balcony and its intended appearance.

The sash can be swing and open outward, deaf or partially open. It all depends on the wishes of the customer and the chosen design of the glass unit. It is equally important to consider the material of the facade to which the balcony is attached and the height of the installation.

French balcony views

There are several types of French balcony. The most straightforward is a balcony in the form of an ordinary glass door, which can have a fence both outside and inside the opening. A more complex design is a balcony with a small concrete ledge... As a rule, such a balcony from the bottom is adhered to by a decorative cornice. This option is considered to be classic.

The view of the balcony may differ depending on how it is attached to the facade of the building. Mounting can be point-like, which assumes minimal use metal elements... Also, the balcony can be fixed with a profile - a pipe. You can find glass enclosed in a metal profile, which is attached directly to the building.

The look of the French balcony completely depends on the wishes of the customer. It can have additional handrails and a forged railing, or it can simply be in the form of huge panoramic windows on the whole wall. The color of the window profile and glass unit has a great influence on the appearance of the structure. The profile can be plastic or wooden. And the glass is transparent, tinted or made to match the color of the building facade.

French balcony mounting technology

Installation of a French balcony is not an easy task. Therefore, it is better to entrust this work to professionals. Installation of the structure is carried out in several stages. If the balcony is being mounted for the first time, then first you need to take the necessary measurements and inspect the finishing elements. This design is installed much faster than traditional balcony, since it does not require welding and work on internal and external decoration. When installing a French balcony, a metal-plastic structure is reinforced with a profile and reinforcing elements. The balcony is securely reinforced from all sides due to a specific installation technology.

There is an option of converting an ordinary balcony into a French one. To do this, you first need to dismantle all concrete railings and cut down metal railings, if any. Then it is necessary to strengthen the concrete slab, on which they will subsequently be installed double-glazed windows made of metal-plastic or aluminum. The aluminum profile has some advantages due to the sliding opening system.

However, the cost of such a structure significantly exceeds option from metal-plastic. It is best to use double-glazed windows. For better thermal insulation of the room in which the French balcony is installed, it is better to use energy-saving glass. Since the structure is almost entirely made of glass, it is extremely necessary to additionally insulate it, otherwise it will be cold in such a room in winter.

Partial glazing can be done. For this, a double-glazed window is installed on the upper part of the balcony, and the lower part is mounted sandwich panels... This design does not require additional insulation and cladding. For glazing a French balcony, it is necessary to choose double-glazed windows of maximum strength. Of course, it is more practical and reliable to combine glass with sandwich plates. The design will relieve the fear of open space. This option is quite practical if there are children in the house.

It is very popular today to use glasses with one-sided transparency... They will help relieve the anxiety that people on the street will be able to see something indoors. Therefore, you can safely walk even in your underwear, without fear of being noticed.

French balconies are only gaining momentum in popularity. This is an excellent solution for those who want to enjoy the beauty of nature without leaving their home, or who do not have enough space in a small cramped apartment. The French balcony undoubtedly points to impeccable taste owner, his desire for grace and aesthetics. Owners of private houses can fully appreciate this design. The best decoration for the facade of a building is hard to come up with, especially if the balcony is equipped with graceful metal bars and filled with all kinds of flowers and plants. Such decoration is available to almost everyone and does not bear particularly high costs!

Photos of French balconies

French balconies are one of the most beautiful design ideas. A variety of flowers can be placed on the balcony decorated in this direction.

The overall composition will evoke enthusiastic glances from passers-by and bewitch. There are so many varieties of such beauty and the choice is yours.

What it is?

Few people know that a French balcony in their native language sounds like a "portfolio", which in translation means - a window and a door. The original appearance of this add-on was based on a small area that could only be one person. Many people wonder: what is a French balcony without understanding this construction term.

Nowadays, this terminology is used to characterize a panoramic window, the height of which is measured from floor to ceiling. In this case, the balcony is fenced with a wrought iron grating. Many people compare it to a basket because of its round shape. Artistic forging gives it unique beauty and elegance.

Nowadays, balconies or loggias with panoramic glazing from floor to ceiling are called French balconies.

The functionality of such a balcony is very small, because the dimensions do not allow you to store anything on it or just relax. Previously, this design was used for ventilation, but nowadays it acts as an addition to the exterior.

It has the only useful functionality for flower growers who plant flowers at home. You can display your entire collection on the French balcony, which will look very beautiful from the outside.

Many people have long acquired such an exclusive and delight the eyes of passers-by. This balcony will allow you to make the facade of the house original and charming.

Views

Balcony with a small ledge

The French are very aesthetic, but there are only two types of their products of this type. Traditionally, they are divided into the following types:

1. With a platform. There is a small ledge made of concrete. The balcony is very narrow. The width usually does not exceed 40 cm.
2. Without a platform. Standard construction of a glass door, which is enclosed by a metal fence. Quite beautiful and aesthetically pleasing. Such a scheme will allow you not to worry about the child, even with the door open.

Balcony modifications

French balcony is great for flowers

The French balconies have gone through many changes, but the design remains the same. Over time, small decorative elements were added to it, for example, a cornice with curtains made in the Roman style.

Many people deviate from tradition, as a result of which they glaze the entire balcony and attach it to the main room, thereby creating a unique view not only of the room, but also providing a stunning landscape from the window. Also, from this combination of free space, you can make a small library or a small greenhouse.

Connoisseurs of such an architectural novelty know a little secret that the French balcony is such a structure that presents the owner in the best possible light.

Each product is made unique due to artistic forging, and the flight of imagination in decorating the premises makes it possible to highlight your individuality among many other analogues.

Appearance

A lot depends on the first impression, which, in turn, depends on the appearance of the French balcony. Everything is based on the following nuances:

In general, everything depends on the person himself, on his desires and preferences. Shape, size, appearance, color - all this will reflect the inner world of a person and will enable observers to appreciate his efforts. And where else to embody your fantasies, if not in artistic forging? For information on how to make a French balcony for flowers, see this video:

Don't forget that originality is always in vogue. In order to make a unique French balcony, you should first draw up a sketch of the room and consult with experts about the application of your ideas.

French balcony, what is it? This is exactly the element that can complement the exterior and create harmony for the entire facade.

If you have the opportunity and desire, be sure to acquire such beauty, because by equipping a balcony or loggia in this style, you will not only complete the entire room from the outside, but also rationally plan its use for personal purposes.

The French balcony is the most fashionable, stylish and elegant decoration of the facades of private and apartment buildings in recent years. It can be found in many European countries. It embodies exquisite design, affordable price and impeccable workmanship. Despite all its indisputable merits, many people still have not heard and do not know about this amazingly beautiful architectural element. About him and everything that concerns him will be discussed in our article.

What is it and what advantages does it have?

Surely people who have never heard of such a balcony have seen it anyway. This type of French glazing in translation means - door to window. In fact, this is not a balcony in the usual sense of this concept, but a beautiful window railing.

Initially, this tiny platform, protruding from the window, which could only fit one person, was used as ventilation. Today, this name is understood as a miniature platform with a fence (most often of forged metal) for panoramic windows.

Forged fences can have different shapes, most often they are made in the form of a curved, convex basket.

The functional load that such a balcony performs is minimal, and it can no longer be called the main source of ventilation either. Now it is a magnificent, unusual beauty decoration for the facade.

In addition, such a platform, fence and railings can be used to create a winter garden or a small greenhouse. The house, decorated with French balconies with floral arrangements, looks very sophisticated and elegant.

Today, there are two main types of such balconies: traditional and modern. The first option is characterized by the complete absence of an observation deck, and the fence is located around the doorway. Some models allow for a minimum area of ​​about a step.

The modern version differs from the classic one in the absence of a parapet. Instead, the balcony space is fully glazed from ceiling to floor.

Advantages:

1. Significant savings in money on installation, additional reinforcement and finishing of the fence.
2. No need for external balcony finishing (corrugated board, metal or vinyl siding).
3. Saving on inner lining and insulation.
4. A good source of natural light.
5. The absence of insulation and inner lining does not reduce the useful area of ​​the structure.
6. Luxurious panoramic view, inaccessible to conventional models of balconies.
7. Fast and clean installation.
8. Excellent decorative properties.

Disadvantages:

1. Lack of a window sill.
2. The need for additional reinforcement of the frame.
3. In the cold season, such a balcony needs heating, and in the summer, additional ventilation.
4. Quite high installation cost.
5. Impractical (panoramic glazing needs frequent and thorough cleaning).

The French balcony can be fitted with additional accessories such as a mosquito net. Different materials are used for its manufacture, its cost will directly depend on this. The doors can be blind, open partially or completely. For decoration, forged metal, stained glass, frosted glass, mirror film or a combination of several materials can be used.

Views

A balcony without a platform is a very simple but elegant design with a glass balcony door and a metal railing on the outside. Ideal for opening a window, breathing fresh air or enjoying the beautiful view.

A balcony with a small area is a more complex constructive option. It implies the presence of a protruding concrete element. Such a balcony allows you to literally go one step outside the room and enjoy your morning coffee in the fresh air.

These are the main types of this architectural structure. They differ from each other not only in structural features and design, but also in the way they are attached to the building. Fastening can be point-like using a small amount of metal elements, using metal pipes or a profile.

The choice of the type of French balcony depends on the wishes of the customer. Someone just wants to decorate a window opening in an original way, someone will prefer a full-fledged structure with doors, a fence and railings.

The materials from which the window is made have a significant impact on the appearance of the finished product. The window profile can be made of wood, metal or plastic, and the glass can be chosen from transparent, frosted, tinted or colored.

The design of the balcony can also be very different. Someone likes strict classics and clear geometric lines, someone will like forged lattices with petals, curls and shells. The railing and railings can have a very different geometric shape, thickness, size, decor. For their manufacture, you can use standard options or use an individual customer's sketch.

A wrought-iron balcony is the most popular type of this type of architectural structure. Forged metal elements allow creating fragile and delicate compositions that perfectly set off the beauty of the balcony and emphasize its impeccable appearance. Metal is a very ductile and obedient material. This property is responsible for the widest range of forged products: from the simplest geometric elements to complex compositions.

A wrought-iron balcony can have a square, rectangular, round shape, be convex or concave, have railings and railings, be decorated with decor or remain austere and laconic.

As an ornament for creating decorative metal elements, plant patterns, flowers, fruits are most often used. Balconies with artificially aged or covered with gold leaf fences look even more stylish and impressive. Such models resemble balconies of ancient castles and palaces.

Decor and arrangement

The graceful and sophisticated form of French balconies is in itself a wonderful decorative addition to any facade. However, with the help of some additional elements and decorations, it can be further refined and improved. For example, using crosspieces - decorative or constructive window grilles. Black, golden, silver, snow-white spros can divide the window into regular geometric shapes (rhombuses, squares, rectangles) or create more complex and unusual compositions using semicircles, cells, honeycombs.

Using colored glass is another great way to make your balcony stand out. Tinted glass will help dim sunlight, while frosted glass will create a beautiful decorative effect. And multi-colored glass, laid out in an intricate ornament or picture, will give the balcony a well-groomed and expensive look. It is not for nothing that stained glass windows have been considered one of the most beautiful and expensive decorations in palaces and churches since ancient times.

It has long been known that it is the little things that give the image a complete and beautiful look. This applies to balcony fittings. It can be of gold or silver color, executed in an elegant, elegant form, decorated with decor.

Forged elements are a win-win option for decorating any kind of balcony. Small or large curls, flower buds, butterflies, sculptural compositions invariably attract the enthusiastic glances of others.

The design feature of the French balcony is panoramic glazing, that is, from floor to ceiling. Naturally, you need to think about how to hide the room from excessive light, as well as prying eyes. The best option for this is curtains, drapes or blinds.

When choosing a suitable option for curtains, you need to remember a few nuances:

• one of the advantages of panoramic glazing is the feeling of free space, so curtains or curtains should only enhance this effect. Materials for their manufacture should be light, light, transparent;
• functionality (blinds or curtains should quickly and easily cover and open the window if necessary);
• practicality in care (curtains should be easy to wash, clean or wash),

A French balcony implies a very small external space, which, no less than standard architectural structures, needs arrangement and decoration. Elements made of wood, forging, plastic can be used as external and internal decor. These can be original lanterns or elegant candlesticks. A small country umbrella or other structure in the form of a visor will help protect the balcony space from rain or the scorching rays of the sun.

Flowers are the best decoration for any balcony. Floral arrangements placed on the parapet, along the fence or climbing vines that adorn the entire balcony create a real "hedge" that will delight the eyes of the owners and those around them for several months a year.