Balcony Typologies

The research investigates how balconies function as dual architectural elements that integrate façade expression, environmental control, and residential usability in Parisian housing built between 2007 and 2020. The research combines field observation with graphical–morphological analysis and literature review to study 33 projects which resulted in seven balcony subtypes: symmetrical, asymmetrical, box-shaped, double-height, uniform continuous, variable continuous and hybrid systems. The different balcony subtypes show distinct performance characteristics because symmetrical and uniform continuous designs maintain façade unity and uniform shading patterns but asymmetrical and box-shaped and variable designs achieve flexibility through different projection depths and enclosure levels. The design of double-height balconies provides better ventilation and daylight exposure while hybrid systems unite personal design needs with shared architectural values. The research creates an integrated system which demonstrates balcony design interactions with climate control systems and user satisfaction metrics to validate their requirement for climate-friendly residential buildings.