The problem of a cluttered balcony is familiar to many. Why do we have such a hard time parting with old things? The fact is that, theoretically, absolutely any item can come in handy someday. Unfortunately, most often only theoretically. We continue to store and transfer things dear to our hearts - necessary and not so useful, useful and useless. Property acquired through honest labor must be stored somewhere. So it accumulates on balconies, where it is sometimes arranged in a chaotic manner. Heaps of things eat up a lot of space. But solving the problem is quite simple - you just need to properly organize all these items and a closet will best cope with this task.
Features and Benefits
By installing a cabinet on a loggia, we unload the space to the maximum, remove all unnecessary things from view, and the more spacious its design, the better. The closet can be made to the full height and width of the balcony, and there will be plenty of space for optimal organization of things. The furniture is made to individual sizes and fits optimally into the prepared space.
The storage system located on the loggia allows you to:
- free the apartment space from bulky furniture;
- ergonomically organize things in a small area;
- do not spend money on an expensive cabinet - a simple and unpretentious model - ideal for a balcony;
- hide necessary but rarely used things - skates, stepladder, Christmas tree;
- turn a cluttered loggia into a stylish and tidy room.
How to do it? Important points
When planning to assemble a loggia cabinet, you need to study everything about installation and assembly. Here are some recommendations from experts:
For storing a lot of things
That is, when creating a drawing, all these details and nuances need to be thought through and transferred to the cabinet plan. You also need to study the characteristics of the materials that can be used in the manufacture of the structure.
Types and functionality of cabinets
With all the variety of cabinets that can be placed on the balcony, we can highlight two main types:
- freestanding - a structure that is not tied to one place. If necessary, you can move it, unfold it, or take it with you to a new apartment. This could be a cabinet that previously stood in one of the rooms, or was purchased specifically for the balcony;
- built-in - such a cabinet is made exactly according to the dimensions of the niche allocated for it. You only need to order the doors, since the balcony itself will serve as the walls, floor and ceiling. Due to this, the weight of the finished structure is significantly reduced. The filling of a built-in closet can be very different - a variety of shelves, baskets, drawers.
A corner storage system will fit perfectly into the balcony space. It will allow you to use additional, sometimes much-needed centimeters and at the same time will not look bulky. A corner closet up to the ceiling will help you use space efficiently and will accommodate a lot of things.
Facade texture: smooth or decorated
Another important feature of a potential cabinet to consider is the cut and texture of the fronts. Smooth and embellished fronts are in fashion today. For modern balcony cabinets, a much better solution would be facades with a uniform structure, which can be varnished or have a visible wood pattern. In other options, you can choose different types of grooves and cutters, which will significantly change the appearance of the facades.
When choosing facades, an important decision is also the finish, which can be matte or glossy. Shiny painted surfaces are synonymous with modern interiors. More often they are also chosen for rooms that require optical magnification. Glamorous facades have many supporters, even when it comes to keeping them clean. The matte finish is more subdued, but it also has benefits. First of all, it looks very elegant. On a balcony that has plenty of access to natural light, this type of façade will bring peace and be calming.
Door opening systems - advantages and disadvantages
Options for doors for balcony cabinets can be very different - from hinged to accordion. Their choice depends on the characteristics of the room, the design of the furniture and the preferences of the owner.
Sliding
Sliding doors save space because they move relative to each other when opened. This option will be simply irreplaceable if the cabinet is located behind a protruding window sill or other obstacle. The space in front of a cabinet with hinged doors must be left free, while this is not necessary for a sliding system. The only drawback is that the compartment doors cannot be opened at the same time. Therefore, only one half of the cabinet will always be available.
With roller shutters
A niche with a lowering iron curtain is an excellent option for a balcony storage room. Blinds as doors will be appropriate both in a regular storage system and in a corner one. No space is required to open the doors, but you still have access to the entire contents of the cabinet. Installation does not take much time. Roller shutters save space, are easy to clean and do not fade. An aluminum curtain will block the way to bright sunlight, moisture and dust. A plain light curtain will visually expand the space, and if it seems too boring, you can apply a design to it - airbrushing. The disadvantage of such doors is that in order to open or close the cabinet, you need to bend over. Another disadvantage of blinds is their low functionality. It is impossible to place hooks, hangers, shelves, or mirrors on their surface, either inside or outside the cabinet. But on the balcony you can do without mirrors, and install additional organizers in the side and back walls.
Accordion doors
This option retains the main advantage of swing doors - when fully opened, all the internal contents are clearly visible - there are no “dead zones”. At the same time, folding doors can effectively save space. The “accordions” do not rest against the window sill, they are compact and easy to open. Unfortunately, such doors are not very reliable and durable. This is due to the large number of connections. The slats of such doors are usually made of plastic or glass, and this is not a very reliable option. Insufficient adherence of the panels to the cabinet structure leads to dust penetration. Therefore, the installation of brush seals is necessary.
Rack – cabinet without doors
If the contents do not have to be hidden behind blind doors, it is quite possible to refuse them. This solution will reduce your expenses and make access to things convenient and quick. The rack is suitable for flowers and seedlings - after all, they simply need the sun's rays. On the glazed balcony, open shelves can be filled with books, decorative accessories, and craft kits. Or design the rack in such a way that one of the shelves turns into a desk or a comfortable mini-sofa.
Cabinet shape and size
The shape of the cabinet depends on:
- the wishes of the owners;
- places where it will be located - at the end, in the corner, along the wall;
- its purpose - the functionality of the cabinet can be different - a full-fledged wardrobe on an insulated balcony, a work area with a computer desk, a rack with many shelves for storing canned food or work tools, an improvised refrigerator.
Shallow cabinets with frequent shelves are suitable for preservation. It is very convenient to arrange jars on such racks. If you are going to store workpieces for a long period of time, it is necessary to organize protection from the sun and equip the storage system with doors.
For large items - sleds, skis, winter tires, you need a spacious closet of sufficient depth, reaching to the ceiling.
The dimensions depend on the type of construction - the height of the built-in wardrobe coincides with the height of the balcony itself and is usually 2500-2700 mm. The depth of the wardrobe must be at least 520 mm, and its height must be at least 1800 mm. For lower drawers you need to leave from 400 to 700 mm. The width of the shelves must be at least 400 mm. Narrower cabinets with smaller shelves are impractical. If the closet is not intended for clothing, a depth of 350 to 450 mm is sufficient. If a structure of even this size does not fit on the balcony, it is more advisable to install a rack without doors.
Materials
When planning to equip a cabinet on a loggia, you must first decide on the material for it, taking into account the expected load. The appearance, durability and ease of use of the product depend on the correct choice.
Plastic
Plastic products are durable and practical. They attract with their moisture resistance and heat resistance - they are not afraid of rain, heat, or frost. The low weight of the structure ensures easy lifting of the product to the site and simple installation. Affordable prices make plastic cabinets accessible to different segments of the population. A rich palette of shades allows you to choose the ideal option for the design of your balcony. The disadvantages are a low degree of resistance to mechanical stress and fading in the sun. Plastic cabinets with a metal profile are a more reliable option. They consist of an aluminum frame and plastic doors. Shelves made of plastic can withstand loads of up to 40 kg.
The doors of the metal-plastic cabinet isolate the internal space from external influences, since they close hermetically. Therefore, moisture and dust will not penetrate inside the structure.
Tree
The main advantage of solid wood cabinets is environmental friendliness. They do not release toxic substances. This cabinet will fit perfectly into an interior with wooden trim.
Strengths of wooden structures
- high load capacity - you don’t have to worry that a wooden shelf will collapse under a heavy object;
- durability - will serve faithfully for many years;
- excellent appearance - natural wood looks expensive and gives the interior warmth and comfort.
However, wooden furniture has its disadvantages. Wood is a flammable material that must be treated with fire retardant impregnations. Fluctuations in humidity can cause it to deteriorate. Excessive heat will cause cracks to appear. The material must be treated with antibacterial agents that protect against the appearance of bark beetle larvae.
Lining
Lining is a practical material that can be used to cover existing structures made of wood, plasterboard, and particle boards. It can also be used as the main material for a cabinet. In this case, a frame is first assembled from a wooden beam or metal profile, which is then covered with clapboard.
In the manufacture of lining, natural wood is used: pine, spruce, oak, alder, as well as more expensive species - rosewood, mahogany. For a balcony wardrobe, lining from an affordable price category is perfect.
The material differs by class - its quality depends on this. There is an Excel class that is impeccable in this regard, as well as classes A, B and C.
When choosing lining for a cabinet, you should not give preference to low-quality class C material.
This type of lamella is not suitable for this type of task. The lining is endowed with all the advantages and disadvantages characteristic of natural wood, but it has its own characteristics:
- at production, the slats are treated with antibacterial agents and coated with special varnishes, which allows them to resist woodworms, moisture and exposure to the sun;
- The tongue-and-groove connecting system allows for quick finishing of surfaces.
MDF
An MDF cabinet is a durable and aesthetic product with excellent performance qualities. You can make all the walls and doors of the cabinet from particle boards or equip the built-in structure with MDF doors.
Types of MDF panels:
- laminated – covered with PVC film. Can be matte, glossy, any color and print;
- veneered – covered with veneer of natural wood of valuable species;
- painted - pre-primed surfaces are coated with paint in several layers.
Laminated chipboards, plywood, furniture panels and OSB are also used.
Do-it-yourself wardrobe on the balcony: step-by-step photos of the actions performed
You should make a cabinet for a loggia or balcony with your own hands after preliminary insulation and wall covering. Therefore, it is recommended to determine the location of the cabinet at the renovation stage, so that nothing interferes with the reliable fastening of the side parts to the walls.
A frame is formed from the prepared wooden beam, after which horizontal crossbars are installed and the shelves are secured.
The easiest method to manufacture is considered to be the method of securing internal parts to a common frame. Work begins with markings on the walls based on a pre-designed design drawing. The lower border of the cabinet is outlined in accordance with the upper markings using a plumb line. This action must be carried out to ensure a level base in order to prevent distortion of all furniture.
The upper and lower boundaries are connected by vertical lines drawn on the walls using a building level. After marking the boundaries of the frame, horizontal lines are drawn to determine the location of the transverse parts. To ensure that the shelves stand level, they should also be secured using a level.
Important! The reliability of the cabinet installation and the appearance of the furniture depend on the proper installation of the frame. Therefore, marking must be done carefully.
Next, using a do-it-yourself drawing of a cabinet for the balcony, they begin to form the frame. If a wooden beam was chosen for its manufacture, the elements are adjusted to the required dimensions using a jigsaw, and the metal profile base is cut using sharp metal scissors. After preparing the parts, the ceiling and floor parts of the cabinet are secured, which are connected by vertically located racks. Fastening to the wall occurs using self-tapping screws, and the recommended step between them is 35-40 cm, but not more than 50 cm.
The appearance of the cabinet and its reliability depend on proper installation of the frame
At the next stage, intermediate horizontal crossbars are installed along pre-designated lines, which will then be used for laying and fixing the shelves. Horizontal fastenings also increase the overall rigidity of the cabinet. The crossbars are mounted using self-tapping screws and corners, which are attached to the bottom of the horizontal crossbars.
If there is no timber or profile of the required length available to fill the entire height of the wall, you can use several short sections secured to each other. In such a situation, vertical and horizontal parts must be installed simultaneously. It must be borne in mind that this assembly method is only suitable if the frame of the structure is attached to the wall.
Instructions for attaching shelves and other cabinet elements
The cabinet shelves can be made from a single sheet of plywood, chipboard or MDF, the thickness of which is at least 12 mm, and solid boards laid flush and screwed to the beam will also work for this purpose. In any case, the edges of the parts should be well processed with a framer or grinder.
Helpful advice! Using plywood or chipboard for interior design will help reduce the weight of the assembled structure, because the weight of solid wood is significantly greater than the weight of other materials.
The walls and shelves of the cabinet on the balcony are fastened together using furniture corners
If the walls and shelves of the cabinet are made of chipboard sheets, then they are fastened together using furniture corners. Fasteners are also used to attach shelves to the frame. When planning a cabinet made of chipboard, you can calculate the required size, number of parts and order their production in retail establishments that sell components for creating cabinet furniture.
In this case, all parts will be distinguished by the correct cut, and most importantly, reliable edging is performed at the factory, protecting the inside of the sheet from moisture penetration. At home, it will not be possible to perform high-quality edge processing.
It is better to make cabinet doors after assembly, taking into account the size of the opening and making markings for installing hinges. When planning a hinged wardrobe with two doors, their size is adjusted at the same time so that they do not rub together when opening. Doors in the form of blinds look beautiful, as well as structures assembled from boards installed vertically or horizontally.
If chipboards were chosen to make a cabinet with your own hands, the doors are hung using furniture hinges with a round groove
In this case, a wooden lining 5-6 cm wide is used. A hand-made cabinet made of lining on the balcony will look appropriate when the entire room is decorated in a similar style. The advantages of plastic doors are:
- a light weight;
- no need to manufacture a massive timber frame.
Another popular door design option is tongue-and-groove boards or lining. The parts are assembled with glue and tightened with a clamp until completely dry. For greater reliability, the finished shield is reinforced with jumpers installed on the inside across the glued lining. It is important to ensure that the jumpers do not rest against already installed shelves.
To install doors, butterfly hinges are most often used, which, using a chisel, are deepened into the base to the full thickness of the plate. This is done so that there is no large gap left between the opening and the door, and also so that one part does not rub against the other.
The last stage of assembling the cabinet on the balcony is the installation of door handles
If chipboard was chosen to make the cabinet, furniture hinges with a round groove are used to install the doors, into which the bowl of the part is then mounted. The socket for the loop is drilled with a special attachment installed in a screwdriver or drill. Whatever hinges are chosen, they are fixed to the cabinet walls using self-tapping screws, for which holes of a smaller diameter are first prepared.
The last stage of assembly is the installation of door handles. To do this, holes are made in the doors, into which a screw will then be inserted, screwed in from the other side.
Cabinet style and colors
In order not to disturb the harmony of the existing interior, furniture should be selected in the same style and in matching colors.
Style options for decorating a balcony:
- Scandinavian - an abundance of light shades, simple shapes and natural materials;
- loft – brick or concrete walls, natural wood, industrial accessories;
- Provence – softness and comfort of delicate colors and floral prints combined with artificially aged accessories.
On the balcony it is better to abandon the ornate forms of Art Nouveau and elaborate Baroque decoration. However, the choice of style entirely depends on the preferences of the owner.
Where to install the cabinet
The location depends on the design of the cabinet and its purpose. Since the balcony is a narrow rectangular room, it would be logical to place furniture on one of the short walls. This way you can slightly adjust the elongated shape of the balcony and use unused space. If it is not possible to place one large cabinet on the end side, you can hang two - one above the other.
Another option is to build a corner structure. A beveled door will allow you to leave unoccupied space next to the glazing, and light will freely penetrate into the room.
A narrow cabinet can be placed under the window sill along the entire side. In winter it is used instead of a refrigerator.
Similar systems are also located under the window. They will be especially relevant in the summer. You can use the top cover instead of a window sill to grow flowers and vegetables. If the dimensions of the loggia allow, the cabinet can be placed along a long wall. The main thing is that it does not interfere with movement and opens easily. A system with sliding doors is ideal.
Decorating loggias inside – photo of design ideas
For finishing glazed and insulated loggias, the same materials are used as for finishing other rooms, but the most popular method is finishing with wooden or plastic lining. Decorating the inside of the loggia with wooden clapboard creates a more comfortable environment, and plastic is easier to care for and does not need to be painted regularly.
Loggia design with panoramic glazing
Panoramic glazing looks beautiful and makes the room filled with light. Loggias can be designed in any shape, size and style. Basically, the forms of loggias are divided into types:
- rectangular;
- square;
- semicircular;
- in the form of a trapezoid.
Attractive potted plants, light curtains and paintings are modern ideas that will decorate outdoor living spaces with panoramic glazing, turning them into elegant retreats.
Panoramic glazing requires a powerful stream of natural light, so choose fading-resistant finishing materials, especially if you have a sunny side.
Buy comfortable and compact seating furniture. Corner furniture will help maximize space and create a beautiful environment. Decorative accessories, plants in floor and hanging pots, curtains or blinds, pillows will help you fully experience the romance of your new vacation spot.
Cabinet configuration and equipment
In order to make the most efficient use of the space inside the product, it is necessary to correctly select its contents. What designs will help you conveniently place things and make using a small pantry comfortable?
- Shelves are horizontal surfaces of various sizes located at different heights. Their size is selected depending on what will be stored in this cabinet. If it is intended for conservation, you will need shelves of different heights.
- Metal baskets - allow you to organize small items that would take up too much space standing on a shelf. In addition, the through walls are well ventilated, which prevents the formation of dampness and fungus.
- Drawers - designs of different sizes. They can be located inside the cabinet behind a common door or have their own facade. They are very useful for storing small items, tools, various household devices, vegetables - if there is not enough space in the kitchen.
- Rods – if the closet is used as a dressing room, they will accommodate hangers for clothes.
- Mezzanines - are equipped in the upper part of the cabinet for storing rarely used items.
If you plan to store a clothes dryer, vacuum cleaner, mops, fishing rods, skis in the closet, you better refuse to fill it and make at least one part of the closet without shelves.
Items such as an ironing board and dryer can be built directly into the closet, thereby creating a convenient area for drying and ironing clothes.
If desired, you can set up a workplace on the balcony, using one of the cabinet shelves as a table. This is an excellent way out of the situation when there is a shortage of free space in the apartment. Books and folders with documents can be conveniently placed on the upper shelves. The lower ones are suitable for placing office equipment.
What tools will you need?
Carpentry tools
- hammer drill or drill with a set of drill bits for concrete and wood
- saw or jigsaw
- hammer and chisel
- screwdriver set or screwdriver
A hand-held electric router will be very useful. This tool is used for processing the edges of wooden parts; you do not have to take them to a carpentry workshop, but do this work yourself. With its help it is convenient to make recesses for loops. In a word, the thing is extremely useful.
You can cut out the necessary grooves and recesses for the hinges and process the edges using a hand-held electric router and a grinding machine.
In the modern world, many tools have been invented to make carpentry work easier, so all work should be done carefully and carefully so that the result is pleasing at any stage of its implementation.
In addition, you need:
- accessories
- metal and plastic furniture corners
- door or furniture hinges
- fasteners
- nails, screws, dowels or anchors
A carpenter cannot do without a metal ruler, a square and a pencil. You will need a building level and a plumb line.
