Outdoor Spaces

A balcony over the harbour sounds ideal, and on a still day it is. The challenge is all the other days. Wellington’s wind is the deciding factor in whether outdoor space gets used, so the most useful balconies are the ones designed and furnished with gusts in mind.

Shelter. Recessed balconies and terraces with solid side walls or glazed screens are far more usable than projecting ones open on three sides. Even a partial windbreak on the side facing the prevailing northerly can make a corner sheltered enough to sit in.

Furniture. Anything light will eventually be lifted. Heavy furniture, pieces that can be strapped down, and cushions that go inside when not in use are the usual answer. Umbrellas are rarely worth the risk on an exposed balcony. Loose items blown off a balcony are a danger to people walking below, and many bodies corporate have rules about what can be kept outside.

Plants. Salt spray scorches many common garden plants. Coastal natives such as harakeke (flax) and the tougher coprosmas generally cope better than exotic plants from sheltered climates, provided the pots are heavy and well secured. Watch the weight of large planters, since balconies are designed for specific loads.

Decks and rails. Timber decking, metal balustrades and their fixings all take more punishment near the sea. Regular washing to remove salt, checks on fixings and attention to coatings extend their life. The Building Code’s durability clause, B2, sets expectations for how long these elements should last.

Waterproofing. Balconies above living spaces rely on membranes and drainage to keep water out. Blocked outlets after a storm are a common cause of leaks, so keep drains clear.

Our longer post on harbour apartment outdoor spaces goes into each of these in more depth.