Some 1,400 metres of the Balcony 2 System Glass Balustrade (using Balcony Systems’ Aerofoil shaped handrail) were specified to create sweeping curved glass balconies on this impressive and prestigious development.
Balconies, and glass in particular, have become an important and appealing feature of buildings, particularly for apartment developments where they allow purchasers comfortable access to enjoy fresh air and surrounding views.
As an integral and aesthetic aspect of domestic architecture, their appearance also plays a key role in a property’s visual appeal, helping to secure sales. Consequently, modern balcony styles now favour glazed systems, rather than railings or spindles, to retain clear panoramic views of surrounding scenery.
Maximum glass and minimum uprights
“The main considerations were maximum glass and minimum uprights to keep the river views. Achieving smooth curves without the need for a faceted construction and the expanse of glass gives a ‘Mediterranean’ feel to the whole development, which works really well,”
Using low-maintenance materials, such as glass and aluminium, also has the added advantage of requiring almost no regular and costly maintenance to keep the structure looking as good as new.
Innovation and development in balcony design has resulted in a beautiful, yet cost-effective system available on the British market that replicates the look of structural glazing for both curved and straight balustrading solutions. As the Balcony system relies on the handrail to provide the required strength, in many cases the glass balustrades require no vertical supports to provide an uninterrupted view.
This was the key reason why the system was requested and specified for Trent Park by the client, built to the east of Nottingham city centre. Balcony Systems supplied the specialist balustrading solution for 146 luxury one to three-bedroomed apartments to take advantage of spectacular riverside views.
1,400 metres of straight and curved glass balconies
The result delivered the client’s vision for an aesthetically-driven balustrading solution that is as visually stunning as it is practical. Technical expertise and knowledge was essential at all stages of the project, from initial design concepts right through to overseeing installation of nearly 1,400 metres of straight and curved glass balconies.
Sweeping curved glass balconies follow the building’s rounded lines on the larger apartments, allowing for unobstructed views across the landscaped grounds and enhancing light through the full height windows.
The system’s versatility allowed for specialist adaptation to suit the fixings and edge installation. Waterproofing was also taken into account with the balcony installation interfacing with the cladding system.
The system is suitable for all types of applications, being compatible with timber, steel, stone, brick and concrete walls. As the toughened glass panels are held securely at the base and handrail, there are no clamps, clips or ‘lugs’ to spoil the clean lines.