Owners of balconies and loggias are lucky - they have at their disposal a small but much needed additional area. Previously, it was used only for household needs, hanging laundry there and storing rarely accessed items. Now they are creating a cozy space for relaxation or work, and they are trying to make storage systems compact and attractive. What types of balcony cabinets there are, interesting ideas, photos of diverse options we will show in this article.
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Cabinet layout options
The main task of properly placing a cabinet on the balcony is to save space without losing functionality. Depending on the layout, the furniture can be located in the corner (the most common option is when the back wall is adjacent to the wall) or under the window if the loggia is wide enough.
The photo shows a narrow mirror cabinet that does not occupy the second corner and makes it possible to rationally use the niche.
The original way to place the cabinet is in the floor. For this purpose, a podium is built into which you can put things away and also use it as a sleeping place.
In the photo there is a closet in the floor on the loggia combined with the room.
Options for functional modern balcony storage systems
A locker on the balcony can be used to store any things, products and household items. On the insulated loggia you can organize a wardrobe where clothes and shoes will be located. In this case, the structure is equipped with rods or pantographs, which are used to place outerwear. On the bar you can place several special carbines that move one after another. They usually hang old clothes on them. It is convenient to store shoes on stationary, mesh or pull-out shelves.
You can choose a cabinet model based on personal preferences regarding the functionality of the furniture
At the top of the closet there may be a mezzanine used for things that are rarely used in everyday life. The design is often equipped with open shelves on which you can place flowerpots with indoor flowers and various decorative elements, which will bring a special mood and comfort to the room.
The cabinet for canning and other preparations should be equipped with many shelves and sections of different sizes, which are selected depending on the size of the cans. If the structure will be used for storing vegetables and fruits, choose a low-height floor product with special dividing boxes. It is most convenient to place such a balcony cabinet under the window sill. The upper part of the product can be used as a table.
Helpful advice! A compartment for storing vegetables and fruits can also be organized in a high cabinet, allocating the lower part of the structure for it.
For special tools and equipment, you can order balcony cabinets with pull-out shelves. It is most convenient to place such a design in a niche of the balcony, rationally using its space.
In the closet on the balcony you can store a variety of items, food and plants
Basic requirements and recommendations for choosing a cabinet for a balcony
The design and dimensions of the cabinet are selected taking into account the features and size of the balcony. The product must fit optimally inside the room. Before making a wardrobe for the balcony, you should think through its internal contents in detail, which depends on the purpose of the structure. Here you can organize a place to store large items in the form of mops, fishing gear, drying racks, ironing boards, skis and other items.
If there is a window sill protruding from the wall on the balcony, this is an important factor when choosing the configuration of the product. In this case, the cabinet may consist of two compartments. One is located above the window sill, the second is located below it. It is important to make the balcony cabinet according to individual dimensions.
The temperature on the balcony or loggia differs from the microclimate in the apartment. This room is more susceptible to the influence of changing seasons. It is much colder here in winter and hotter in summer. Condensation often accumulates on windows. Unglazed balconies are a place where precipitation accumulates. Therefore, special operational requirements are imposed on cabinets for balconies and loggias, which should be taken into account when choosing the material for the construction.
Before you buy a cabinet that will stand on the balcony, you should decide what material it will be made from.
The cabinet must withstand high humidity, temperature changes, and withstand sufficiently low or high temperature conditions. These factors should not impair the aesthetic and performance characteristics of the product.
Important! If the cabinet is made of natural wood, it should be covered with stain and a protective layer of varnish, which will extend its service life.
If the balcony or loggia has a southern orientation, you should not choose a design with a colored facade. Under the influence of ultraviolet rays, it will quickly lose its original shade. The best option in this case is white.
Before installing the cabinet on the balcony, you should consider its internal contents in detail.
Location of the cabinet on the balcony
The shape and size of the structure will depend on where it is installed. If the product is hidden in a niche or installed near one of the walls, then it can have a rectangular shape and take up space from floor to ceiling. The interior space of the cabinet can be hidden behind doors of different designs and levels or combined with open shelves, which is clearly shown in the photo of the cabinet design on the balcony.
Related article:
Shelving for the balcony: a reliable assistant for organizing space
Varieties of the product depending on the configuration, installation location and material of manufacture. Making a rack with your own hands.
On small glazed balconies and loggias, it is advisable to place narrow cabinets on the sides of the room. You can also install one structure on top of the other near one of the side walls. A large cabinet is located on the floor, and a smaller one, the height of which starts from the window sill, is attached to the walls. A practical solution is a corner cabinet for the balcony, which uses the corner where the room window comes into contact with the wall of the room. It is recommended to place a small table under the window, which will be an extension of the cabinet.
You can install a seating area under the cabinet, which will be an interesting continuation of the design
You can use the space under the window with the help of a floor-mounted low and narrow cabinet-box where vegetables and fruits are stored. For a spacious loggia, the optimal solution is a corner model, which is also suitable for balconies with sloping corners. A U-shaped structure will fit very organically here, which will occupy the corner space and the space under the window. You can arrange a seating area near the wall, which will become a continuation of the structure. On a boot-shaped balcony, you should install a cabinet built into the protruding part.
Material for making built-in wardrobes on the balcony
When choosing a material for the manufacture of a cabinet or built-in wardrobe for a loggia, you should take into account the special microclimate of the room, which is characterized by high humidity and temperature fluctuations. Unprotected raw materials are not capable of ensuring long-term operation of the structure. A balcony cabinet can be made of natural wood, chipboard, plastic and metal.
Plastic is a practical, wear-resistant, durable and inexpensive material for furniture. It is presented in a wide range of colors, which allows you to create a product that will fit into any interior. The material is malleable in processing and bends well, which allows it to be used when creating furniture with cylindrical elements or rounded corners. Plastic is easy to install and does not require special care. It has an affordable price.
The plastic cabinet is quite practical and is durable, moisture resistant, and easy to maintain.
The negative aspects of plastic are the material’s low resistance to mechanical stress and exposure to sunlight, which can lead to fading and loss of brightness of the product.
Laminated chipboard and its analogues are widely used in the manufacture of balcony cabinets. The material is characterized by strength, practicality, reliability, resistance to external factors and ease of maintenance. It is non-flammable and provides good thermoregulation.
You can make the frame of the cabinet from plasterboard. The material is not afraid of moisture, is not prone to deformation changes, is easy to install, easy to process and paint. However, drywall is not highly durable or impact resistant. This design is not able to withstand heavy weight.
Expensive materials for a balcony cabinet
Natural wood is characterized by durability, strength, environmental friendliness and reliability. This design can withstand significant loads, so it is most rational to store cans of preserves in such a cabinet. A do-it-yourself wooden cabinet for a balcony (the photos clearly show the different options) has a presentable appearance, which makes the design a real decoration of the interior of the room.
The most expensive material for making a balcony cabinet is natural wood.
However, in order for the product not to lose its appearance and maintain good performance characteristics, the wood must be treated with a special compound that ensures the structure is moisture resistant. Other disadvantages of the material include heavy weight, massiveness and high cost.
You can reduce the cost of a wooden structure by finishing the cabinet facade with clapboard. In this case, it is better to use hardwood. The material can be painted in any color, giving it the appropriate style, which is clearly shown in the photos of lining balcony cabinets.
Metal structures have increased strength. The material has reliable protection from external negative influences, is not affected by moisture, and does not respond to temperature changes.
Helpful advice! A good option is a design with an aluminum frame covered with PVC panels. This product is characterized by strength, reliability and durability.
Ikea cabinets are characterized by a modernized modern design, high quality and durability
You can make a wardrobe for a balcony using different materials, skillfully combining them. The basis (for making the frame) is chipboard or wood, supplemented with glass, metal or plastic inserts, shelves or doors.
Types of balcony cabinets
Let's look at several common types of furniture for storing things on the balcony.
Closet
Keeping space savings in mind, this product can be called the optimal choice for a loggia. Sliding doors do not take up space, and mirrors, which often decorate them, visually expand the space.
The photo shows an unusual design with corner shelves. A small loggia looks wider, and the closet does not clutter up the space.
Wardrobe with shelves
If the apartment owner wants to make the balcony more comfortable or demonstrate his good taste, a model with shelves inside or on the sides will serve perfectly for placing decor and flowers.
Built-in
Based on the type of design, cabinets are divided into free-standing (cabinet) and built-in (hidden), which fit into the space without attracting attention, but require more complex installation.
The photo shows a secret closet that allows you to use every centimeter of the allocated space.
Mounted
The main advantage of such furniture is the “airiness” effect. This makes it easier to perceive a rather bulky product in a modest-sized room.
With hinged doors
The most popular and inexpensive option. The disadvantage of such a product is that open doors take up too much space and can rest against a window sill or block a doorway.
The photo shows an unusual cabinet with hinged glass doors.
With roller shutters
A suitable solution for practical people. Roller shutters are easily raised and lowered using a reliable mechanism. They are rarely used in residential premises, as they look unusual and are expensive.
Combined models
There are times when saving space is not a priority when decorating a balcony. If the main goal is to create a comfortable and multifunctional corner for relaxation, you should think about ordering combined structures. If the loggia is closed and insulated, with the help of a seating cabinet it can turn into a separate room, and in combination with a table - into a summer kitchen. This is especially true for owners of small Khrushchev houses.
The photo shows a transforming wardrobe with roll-out drawers and a seat.
Rack
This is a multi-tiered structure without doors. Usually installed on balconies to store seedlings or flowers that need sunlight. On closed loggias, shelving is also appropriate, but it is worth considering that the abundance of things on the shelves overloads the decor.
The photo shows a picturesque green oasis created with the help of elegant plant racks.
Cabinet
This small cabinet is a good option for those who do not want to occupy the entire wall with a large structure, but need a place to store a minimum number of things.
The photo shows a cabinet, the top panel of which can be used as a tabletop.
Door system
The type of door is selected based on the size of the product and the free space in front of it.
Swing
Classic, time-tested type. Such doors have no restrictions on door sizes and can be easily installed independently, without the help of professionals. If you choose the material in accordance with the overall design of the balcony and decorate it with beautiful handles, you will get a stylish piece of furniture that will be useful not only for preserving household items, but will also be pleasing to the eye. It must be remembered that this type of door requires space in front of it to swing open.
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Coupe
A modern type of door, in demand for premises of any size. The sliding system moves the door leaves to the side without requiring additional space in front. Thanks to this, the compartment is placed close to other furniture. It is recommended to choose this type of door for spacious loggias, since compartments have a minimum size limit. The width of one canvas must be at least 40 cm.
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Harmonic
The originality and convenience of this model makes it popular. The door folds and slides to the side. The accordion is universal - suitable for any style and trend. Easy to install and lasts for many years.
Roller shutters
Opening up, they completely open access to the contents. This type of door is made in any color or your favorite design is applied to it using airbrushing.
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Aluminum doors are easy to install and protect things from sunlight, dust and moisture.
Sizes and shapes of loggia cabinets
Owners of a spacious balcony have a wide range of options: the layout allows you to place a large closet or even a radius (“bent”) structure. You don’t have to worry about saving space and choose swing doors or three-leaf “accordion” doors that open outward.
On small loggias, low and shallow cabinets are more appropriate.
The photo shows a roomy design for shoes.
If the balcony is panoramic, then an ordinary wardrobe will block part of the window. The solution in such a situation is to install a corner product. The photo shows that even small models can look different: it can be an open shelving unit with semicircular shelves or a straight wardrobe with sliding doors. Also, a triangular design is often used in irregularly shaped rooms.
Dimensions
The size of the product is determined upon request. If its height is limited by a low ceiling, then the width can be made to any size. The most spacious structures are floor-to-ceiling in height.
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If the layout of the loggia involves a panoramic view, blocking it with furniture will not be the best idea. Here it is better to choose low cabinets up to the level of the window sill along its entire length. In addition to the storage system, this will create an additional horizontal plane. You can put flowers on it or use it as a table.
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Many people make their own cabinets on the balcony, choosing designs from photos on furniture websites. The simplest option, which even a non-professional can do, is a chest box.
Chest KETER Glenwood
This is a full-fledged seating area in which bulky items, tools or household items are stored. It can be made along the entire length of the room or placed at the end.
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Color examples
When decorating a loggia, neutral furniture colors are the most popular: beige will fit well into a setting decorated in warm colors. Calm gray is also suitable for discreet but stylish interiors, and universal white will be appropriate in any combination.
Lovers of bright, cheerful interiors often use yellow or even red shades: colored furniture acts as an accent and distracts attention from the modest size of the room. Cool colors (blue, mint) are used less often - in our climate, residents, on the contrary, try to “lure” more sun to the balcony, including with the help of warm shades in the decor.
The photo shows a balcony decorated with clapboards, into which is fitted a wardrobe in a natural shade of wood.
Three-section with panel doors
Next up is another carefully thought-out project for a balcony cabinet with ready-made facades, this time with wooden panels from Leroy Merlin. But it’s not just the attractive design and neat execution that are of interest.
The design itself, consisting of three parts and two levels, will be useful to everyone who has the same method of opening a window and wants to combine utilitarian and decorative functions in one product. You can find out how it looks assembled and painted in the second part of the video.
On rounded open shelves adjacent to the window and illuminated by the warm rays of the sun, light-loving house flowers will feel great and look great.
What material is better to choose for a loggia?
Over time, furniture on unheated loggias is exposed to external factors: humidity, UV radiation, mold. The best solution in this case is to insulate the balcony, but if this is not possible, you should choose wear-resistant materials. Manufacturers offer the following cabinet options:
- plastic;
- Chipboard/chipboard;
- wood;
- metal.
The photo shows a balcony with a double-leaf wardrobe made of PVC panels.
Solid wood furniture is more expensive than plastic, but is less resistant to moisture (if it is not treated thermowood). Plastic can become deformed over time due to temperature changes, and metal products are susceptible to corrosion. Most often, furniture made of laminated chipboard or MDF is installed on balconies: the top layer of plastic protects the chipboard from wear, and if damaged, budget models can always be replaced.
The photo shows a fashionable wooden rack with a metal frame.
Dimensions and internal contents
The standard height of a balcony cabinet is from 250 to 270 cm, provided that the structure is built-in. For convenience, the optimal height of the working area should be 220 cm. If there is space left under the ceiling, you can organize a mezzanine. The height of a typical structure for storing clothes is 180 cm. Bottom drawers for shoes should be provided. The width of the shelf varies from 40 to 50 cm. If the distance is made smaller, the design will be impractical.
The depth of the cabinet for things is from 52 cm. Especially for wheels, it is recommended to install a slightly smaller structure on the balcony - 35–45 cm. You can also store cleaning equipment here: buckets, mops, household chemicals. When the balcony is too narrow, it is worth considering open shelving options.
If there is a special compartment, you can place a slim cabinet there. Its depth must be at least 55 cm, otherwise it will negatively affect the volume of the entire product. As a last resort, you can use retractable rods - their minimum size is only 25 cm.
Cabinets with a depth of up to 70 cm are made to a standard height. The length may vary. In general, the design parameters directly depend on the width of the loggia.
Types of cabinets may differ with different storage systems. Most often, shelves are made of sheet material:
- chipboard;
- plywood;
- OSB;
- wood;
- furniture board;
- grids
Cabinet arrangements may include drawers, shelves or baskets. The choice of one option or another depends on the things that are supposed to be stored. If these are tools, drawers are suitable, stationary shelves will be convenient for cans, and crossbars are installed in the dressing room
Balcony design photo
Let's move away from the topic of practicality and consider the cabinet as an item that will give the loggia a special character and help decorate the interior.
A product with glass facades looks expensive and elegant. If the balcony is open, glass protects personal belongings from dust or rain. Cabinets with louvered doors, on the contrary, look solid and give a feeling of comfort.
If the layout allows, two wardrobes can be placed on the balcony. White glossy facades will help to slightly expand the space by reflecting light.
The photo shows a rack that houses a rich collection of mugs.
Slatted mezzanine cabinets and baskets look great on loggias designed for a cozy pastime.
Types of dressing rooms
Of course, in addition to personal wishes and preferences, existing conditions must also be taken into account. If your balcony is small, then a baby closet is definitely your option. It is ideal for one person.
On a small balcony you can install narrow cabinets or hanging shelves with drawers
Typically, such a “set” includes a small cabinet and several shelves. Well, in order not to attract prying eyes, use regular window curtains, thick but not thick.
A hinged wardrobe built into the end wall of the balcony can be a suitable solution for a small room.
The medium-sized option is quite suitable for a married couple. In this case, it will be possible to install a closet and arrange shelves for shoes under the window - they will not take up much space, but will be able to hide a sufficient number of shoes and accessories in their depths. Place a mirror on the cabinet door. Firstly, this necessary element of the dressing room will make your stay more comfortable, and secondly, it will help to visually expand the space. And don’t forget about the decorative elements, because if the loggia turns into a functional area, this does not mean at all that it does not need to be supplemented with little things dear to the heart.
Large mirrors will visually increase the area of the room and give you the opportunity to see yourself in full height
Large loggia – more options for implementing ideas. Designers recommend dividing a large loggia into zones, for example, in addition to the dressing room, setting up a small recreation area. And to place clothes and accessories, use not only a closet and shelves, but also install a metal hanger, hang a mirror with sconces on the wall, and put a comfortable rug under your feet. Compact balcony furniture is an ideal choice for a relaxation area.
On the spacious loggia you can organize a full-fledged dressing room
Another option is a balcony without windows. Its area will perfectly accommodate a spacious boudoir, on both sides of which you can install cabinets and shelves. There is enough space for a mirror and an ottoman. Don’t forget about lighting; in a balcony space without windows, this is an essential item.
On a narrow balcony, furniture is placed along one wall
Filling the cabinet on the balcony
When choosing furniture for the loggia, it is recommended to think in advance about what will be stored in it. A closet on an insulated balcony can turn into a wardrobe or become a storage room for books. The household family will use it for tools or cans of preserves.
The photo shows an unusual cabinet-house for storing construction tools.
For an active family, the convenient design will serve as a place to hide sports equipment or a bicycle.
Useful tips for choosing and arranging
Modern manufacturers have managed to successfully combine comfort with functionality in furniture. But this does not eliminate the need to take into account certain nuances of choosing and using the product:
- If the room is not very warm, you will need insulation. This is especially important when the cabinet is placed on the loggia to store preserved food.
- Drawers are best for tools. For them, you can equip a separate niche on the balcony.
- A corner cabinet is an ideal option to use the entire “dead zone” on the loggia. The furniture will be spacious, occupying a minimum of free space.
When choosing a finished structure, it would be useful to pay attention to the quality of materials, ask to see a certificate of conformity, and check the reliability of fasteners and fittings. There should be no chips or roughness on the surface of the facades.
You should also take into account the features of the balcony itself. If it is not glazed, you will have to abandon materials that deteriorate under the influence of humidity and direct sunlight. It is recommended to opt for plastic and aluminum profiles. When determining the dimensions, you need to try to ensure that the cabinet completely occupies the wall or corner allocated to it. As a result, it will be possible to place a maximum of things or products in it, and there will be no empty recesses left on the loggia in which dust will accumulate.
To store conservation, the loggia should be insulated. Tools can be conveniently stored in drawers. Corner structures are the most spacious.
Photos of loggias in various styles
When choosing a suitable model, you should think about the style in which you want to fit the cabinet, then it will become a real “highlight” of the interior.
Rough textures of facades and metal are suitable for an “industrial” loft. Laconic but functional shelving, as well as products with glass doors, will fit into the modern style. Homely, cozy Provence, on the contrary, recognizes a wealth of textures: facades that look like shutters, wickerwork and wooden boxes.
The photo shows a cabinet with a beveled door, which adds character to the entire interior.
Required materials and tools
To assemble the cabinet, you will need materials such as timber, metal profiles, wooden lining, moisture-resistant plywood, and metal corners.
Typically the tools required are a jigsaw, a saw, a drill, a milling machine, a screwdriver, a chisel and a hammer, as well as a pencil and tape measure.
If the cabinet is being assembled for the first time, then in order not to spoil the material, you should mark all measurements as accurately as possible, checking with a previously prepared drawing.
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.
Frame made of lining
If your balcony is covered with tongue-and-groove wooden planks, it is logical to choose them to build a cabinet that will blend with the interior. In the presented MK, the girl describes step by step the process of making a frame, assembling walls and shelves, listing the necessary tools and fasteners, so that even a beginner can cope with the task. The dimensions are optimal - the entire side niche.
I would like to add an addition: an unheated balcony has a special microclimate, so it is better to keep the lining there for 3 days in an open state and subject it to protective and decorative treatment individually before installation, because the lamellas can change shape.
