design
Reference Notes
BALCONIES IN MEDIUM AND HIGH DENSITY RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT
Open balconies, characterized by concrete slabs
projecting from perimeter walls and generally
having metal railings and infill panels (Figure 1),
are discouraged in medium and high density
residential development. Open balconies have
inherent problems in terms of useability,
maintenance and community design:
From an occupant useability perspective:
C the narrow depth and linear proportions
of a traditional balcony restrict its use;
C our northern climate limits the extended
use of the balcony over the seasons; and,
C the height and exposure of the balcony
can create a severe microclimate limiting
use to only clement weather.
Figure 1: Projecting Slab Balconies
Volume 0396
From a maintenance perspective:
C materials used on railings and infill panels
are often of minimal standard which
weather poorly resulting in a decrepit
appearance for the overall building.
From a community design perspective:
C the storage of bicycles, outdoor furniture
and the stringing of laundry lines can add
visual clutter to an otherwise well
integrated architectural elevation and a
perceived community character; and,
C standardized balcony features (e.g. metal
infill panels) do not reflect the individual
character of a building, or, at a larger
scale, the distinctness of a community.
June 1996
 design
Reference Notes
BALCONIES IN MEDIUM AND HIGH DENSITY RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT

Alternative Solutions for Balcony Design

Alternative balcony designs are encouraged which integrate with the built form and community character
more sympathetically while increasing the useability of the facility. The alternatives include:

Inset Balcony (Figure 2): balconies inset within
the perimeter wall of a building with one exposed
face to the elements. This alternative provides for
a more integrated and distinct design treatment
given that the overall architectural elements (i.e.
pattern of fenestration, principal building material,
massing) predominate rather than projecting
balconies of a standardized design and material.
From a useability perspective, inset balconies
provide for a more protected outdoor space with
greater comfort for a more extended period of
the year. Wherever possible, railing panels should
be opaque to minimize views of any items stored
on the balcony.
"French" Balcony (Figure 3): a balcony inset
within the perimeter wall of the building (often
having a minor projection from the exterior wall),a
protective railing and either hinged or sliding
doors. This design solution maintains the
architectural integrity of the building and with
careful attention to detailing can even enhance and
provide a distinct character for an otherwise
nondescript project. The useability of the entire
apartment unit is enhanced given that the sliding
doors open up the principal living space to the
exterior. Visual clutter is not an issue as there is no
outdoor storage space other than perhaps a
narrow shelf for planters.

Figure 2: Inset Balconies

Figure 3: “French Balconies”

Volume 0396 June 1996

 design
Reference Notes
BALCONIES IN MEDIUM AND HIGH DENSITY RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT

Alternative Solutions for Balcony Design

Fully Enclosed Sunroom (Figure 4): a small

room along the perimeter wall with extensive
glazing and sliding or hinged doors allowing the
space to be more useable for an extended period
of the year. As above, this solution generally
integrates well with the building exterior,
eliminates visual clutter given that any stored
items are behind enclosing walls/windows, and is
generally larger in size and proportioned to allow
greater useability than a standard apartment
balcony.

Figure 4: Enclosed Sunrooms

Other innovative concepts such as terraced balconies, roof decks, and combinations of
outdoor/indoor elements are also encouraged. It should be noted that some of the above design
alternatives may have implications in terms of the balcony space being included as part of the allowable
floor area calculation. Applicants should consult with the Building Division of the Planning and Building
Department in this regard.

Volume 0396 June 1996

 design
Reference Notes
BALCONIES IN MEDIUM AND HIGH DENSITY RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT

For additional information please contact the City of Mississauga Planning and Building Department
Development and Design Division,11th Floor, 300 City Centre Drive, Mississauga, Ontario L5B 3C1
Telephone: (905) 896-5511.

Volume 0396 June 1996