Gonghe Community, Guangzhou
In this case, the original balcony is 1m deep and 3m long. Most of them have been extended indiscriminately by residents to have a larger private area. Compared with the unsafe self-built constructions, the unified update will be more controllable and durable. View more about this case study.

 

By replacing them with larger balconies in which the depth is at least 2m and the length is the same as the bay of the apartment, it can provide more private spaces for residents.

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Since the spaces between the buildings are too narrow, we used cable structures in this renewal to reduce the volume of the structure. This works because most residential buildings in China are concrete frame structures. The new balconies make the building look neater and provide more shading to the interior spaces in summer.

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The railing materials are adapted to different floors. BIPV panels are used on higher floors that can receive more solar, dark-color glazing is used on the first floor, and perforated metal panels are used on the ground floor that needs more vision privacy.

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The expanded balconies can be multi-functional. They are large enough for many activities, such as drying clothes, partying, exercising, enjoying an afternoon tea, etc. They are like a series of stages that show people's lives and encourage interaction between neighbors.

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Current Status

 

Current Status