STRUCTURAL SOLUTION FOR JULIET BALCONY INSTALLATION IN LAKE DISTRICT
4.5 METRE JULIET BALCONY
OVERVIEW
A private client in the Lake District, commissioned a large detached new build property with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The property’s architectural design included a Juliet balcony, intended to enhance the aesthetic appeal and maximise the breathtaking sea views. However, the location of the property in a high wind-loading area, combined with the design requirements for an expansive glass panel, posed significant structural challenges. The glass for the Juliet balcony was exceptionally thick and heavy too, due to the need for triple lamination, with a span of a whopping 4.5 metres and a total weight of 300 kilos.
CHALLENGE
The primary challenge was the installation of such a large Juliet balcony in an exposed location with high wind loading. The glass required for the balcony was not only heavy, but also exceptionally thick to withstand the environmental conditions. The building’s existing structure, comprising timber and block facing, had not been originally designed to support the weight and structural demands of a Juliet balcony of this magnitude. Ensuring the structural integrity of the building while complying with stringent building regulations was a critical concern.
SOLUTION
To address the challenges, 360 GSS, in collaboration with specialist engineers and architects, developed a bespoke structural solution. This involved designing and integrating structural steel channels into the wall cavity of the building. The steel channels were meticulously calculated to effectively transfer the substantial loads from the heavy glass panels into the surrounding building structure. The solution was crafted to not only meet, but exceed building regulation standards, ensuring the long-term security and stability of the Juliet balcony under all conditions, including the harsh weather typical of a Lake District home by the sea. The solution was further validated by a comprehensive structural report and detailed calculations by 360 GSS’s structural engineers, ensuring that every aspect of the design adhered to the required safety and compliance standards. The collaborative effort between 360 GSS and the specialist teams ensured that the solution was both effective and efficient.
RESULT
The project was successfully completed within a single day, a testament to the efficiency and expertise of the 360 GSS team. Despite the complexity and the challenges presented by the environmental conditions and the structural requirements, the installation of the Juliet balcony was executed flawlessly. The final result not only provided the client with a stunning architectural feature that maximised their property’s views, but also ensured that the structure was safe, secure, and compliant with all building regulations. This case highlights 360 GSS’s capability to handle challenging projects with precision and speed, delivering solutions that are not only innovative, but also completed to an unrivalled standard.
CONCLUSION
This project stands as a powerful example of how expertise, collaboration, and innovative thinking can overcome even the most demanding structural challenges. From concept to completion, 360 GSS delivered a bespoke solution that balanced aesthetic ambition with engineering excellence. The successful installation of the 4.5-metre, triple-laminated Juliet balcony – completed within just one day – demonstrates not only our technical capability, but also our commitment to precision, safety, and client satisfaction. With the Atlantic views now perfectly framed in glass, this Lake District property is a striking showcase of what’s possible when vision meets the right partner.
ALL OF OUR BESPOKE GLASS OPTIONS
SHOWERS
- Walk-in Glass Shower Screens
- Loft & Sloping Enclosures
- Over-Bath Shower Screens
- Sliding Glass Shower Enclosures
- Custom Hinged Enclosures
BALCONIES & BALUSTRADES
- Glass Balconies
- Glass Juliet Balconies
- Glass Balustrades
BANNISTERS & PARTITIONS
- Glass Bannisters & Staircases
- Glass Partitions & Facades